Importance of Periodontal Health

Paying attention to your dental hygiene and health – especially your gums – may pay you back with more than a gleaming, healthy smile and manageable dental bills. It may keep your heart healthy too. Dr. Kathleen Falsey, DDS is here to help you maintain healthy gums with routine cleanings because healthy gums aren’t just important for your oral health, they are important to your overall health as well.

When you have healthy gums, your teeth are well supported by the tissue in your gums and your chances for long-term oral health are significantly increased. Because periodontal disease is linked to an increased susceptibility to systemic disease (bacterial pneumonia, diabetes, cardiovascular disease), it is important to prevent it as well as control it. Brushing and flossing your teeth regularly is important and helps remove the thin film of bacteria that builds up on your teeth each day and contributes to tooth decay. If you have trouble maintaining a daily oral hygiene routine, give Dr. Kathleen Falsey, DDS a call today.

If you are experiencing gum sensitivity, please give us a call to discuss your treatment options. To learn about services we provide at our practice, visit www.bayberrydentalcare.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Kathleen Falsey, DDS in our Tinley Park, IL office, call Bayberry Dental Care at 708-802-8300. 

What Happens During a Dental Cleaning?

No matter how much you diligently brush or floss your teeth at home, harmful bacteria grow in your mouth that can only be removed by a dental professional. These bacteria can cause gum disease and significantly affect your overall health. Here at Bayberry Dental Care, our hygienists will use professional tools to remove plaque, tartar, and bacteria build-up that you are unable to efficiently remove yourself.  

According to the Academy of General Dentistry, it is recommended that a dentist or hygienist perform a dental cleaning every six months. The professional dental cleaning reinforces the home-care oral health regimen of brushing and flossing and gives Dr. Kathleen Falsey, DDS an opportunity to locate areas in the mouth that may need special attention. During a teeth cleaning, our hygienists will thoroughly clean the area above and below the gum line with scaling tools to rid them of plaque and tartar. Once the surfaces are smooth, polishing is done using a slow speed handpiece with a soft rubber cup that spins on the end. Last but not least, the dentist flosses every crevice between your teeth and may apply fluoride if needed.

If you need your teeth cleaned don’t wait any longer, call us today so we can help you maintain a healthy smile! To learn about services we provide at our practice, visit www.bayberrydentalcare.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Kathleen Falsey, DDS in our Tinley Park, IL office, call Bayberry Dental Care at 708-802-8300. 

Tips for Avoiding Stains While Wearing Braces

While wearing braces, there are a few changes that need to be made to your dental care routine. One of the important but sometimes forgot about reasons is to avoid staining. At Bayberry Dental Care in Tinley Park, we want to remind our patients that good dental care is not just important for healthy teeth. While wearing braces especially, good dental care is important to keep teeth bright and white.

 

Staining while wearing braces can result in uneven staining when the braces come off. Getting your braces off is supposed to be an awesome day! You do not want them taken off only to unveil strange staining marks. Follow this guide to avoid staining while you are wearing braces!

 

Good Dental Hygiene Good dental hygiene is the biggest part of keeping your chompers white. Dental plaque that builds up from food, drinks, and saliva can turn teeth yellow or dark if not removed frequently. That is why it is important to brush multiple times per day. If you brush once in the morning and once at night, consider squeezing in a third brushing in the middle of the day. Brushing after each meal is a good idea to deter stains from sticking around.

 

Extra Supplies Floss threaders and interdental cleaners will help you clean around your brackets and wires. This is especially important to avoid the uneven staining that can be caused by plaque building up around brackets.

 

Dark Foods and Drinks When it comes to dark foods and drinks, they are okay every now and then but try to avoid consuming them frequently. Examples of these foods are tomatoes, cola, coffee, and blueberries. Rinse your mouth out after consuming dark foods and liquids to help avoid staining. In addition, sip dark drinks through a straw to minimize contact with your teeth.

 

Protect your smile so that when the braces come off, you have a beautiful and straight smile! To schedule your next examination and cleaning here at Bayberry Dental Care in Tinley Park, IL, call us at (708) 802-8300. More information about our practice can be found on our website, www.bayberrydentalcare.com. 

Ways to Make Sure You Brush Long Enough

In the constant hustle and bustle of life, brushing your teeth can become quick and thoughtless. Unfortunately, this can lead to missed spots or not enough brushing. At Bayberry Dental Care in Tinley Park, IL, we want our patients to know that two minutes are usually needed for an adequate brushing. Take some of our tips for ensuring you are brushing for long enough!

In order to hit all of the areas in your mouth effectively, you should be spending about two minutes brushing. You will want to brush the chewing surfaces of your teeth, the fronts, the insides, the backs of the back molars, along with your tongue, inner cheeks, and the roof of your mouth. One simple way of keeping track of time is by splitting your teeth into four sections. Brush each section for thirty seconds and then be sure to remember the rest of your mouth!

Music players and phones often have timers or countdowns on them so this makes it easy to make sure you are spending two minutes. Plus, if you use a music player, you can jam out to your favorite tune. It can make for a pretty great morning ritual!

Another way of making sure you are spending enough time is so simple it is right in your toothbrush. There are many electric toothbrushes that come with built-in timers that beep or pause buzzing after two minutes.

Spend enough time brushing your teeth and see results when your dentist tells gives you a clean bill of health! To schedule your next cleaning at Bayberry Dental Care in Tinley Park, IL, call us at (708) 802-8300 or visit our website, www.bayberrydentalcare.com. 

Choosing Toothpaste to Meet Your Needs

When stepping foot into the oral hygiene aisle at the drugstore, our staff at Bayberry Dental Care understands that the selections of toothpaste can be overwhelming. Should you go for tartar control, fluoride, sensitive or whitening toothpaste? When it comes to choosing the toothpaste that is best for you, it’s important to consider your unique oral health needs. The best way to discover what those are is by scheduling an oral exam with Dr. Kathleen Falsey, DDS. In the meantime, here are some options to consider while browsing:

• Anti-cavity: This type of toothpaste contains fluoride. Fluoride plays an active role in preventing decay, and it actively strengthens tooth enamel.


• Anti-gingivitis: If you spit blood in the sink, this is an early sign of gingivitis, a mild form of gum disease. Anti-gingivitis toothpaste helps reduce oral bacteria and can be very effective at stopping gingivitis in its tracks.


• Desensitizing: If you’ve ever bit into an ice cream cone and felt a sharp pain in your tooth’s nerve, this type of toothpaste will provide relief by blocking the tooth’s pain signal to the nerve.


• Tartar-control: This toothpaste does exact what it says, however, the best way to remove tartar is by scheduling a professional dental cleaning with one of our doctors.


• Whitening: This toothpaste contains chemicals that are able to help maintain the natural color of your teeth.

If you have questions about dental health or oral care, please give us a call. To learn about services we provide at our practice, visit www.bayberrydentalcare.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Kathleen Falsey, DDS in our Tinley Park, IL office, call Bayberry Dental Care at 708-802-8300.

Thank You For Your Testimonials!

Here at Bayberry Dental Care, Dr. Kathleen Falsey, DDS, and staff appreciate feedback from our customers because it teaches us how to improve as a team. Our staff would not only like to thank Karen B. for her review, but we would like to thank her for being an excellent patient. If you recently experienced exceptional service from our office, please let us know!  

“Dr. Kathleen Falsey and the Bayberry Dental staff have been amazing. They treat their clients in a professional and respectful manner. They make dealing with our dental insurance company easy. Dr. Falsey has always gone above and beyond from regular checkups to emergencies. My family and I have been clients for many years now and we would never think of going anywhere else. It is a wonderful feeling to be treated more like a friend than a patient!”

If you would like to leave a testimonial or are interested in learning more about the services we provide at the practice, visit www.bayberrydentalcare.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Kathleen Falsey, DDS in our Tinley Park office, call 708-802-8300.

Cavity Characteristics

There are two main factors that contribute to cavities. One is bacteria in the mouth and the other is a diet that is high in sugar. It’s no surprise that cavities are common among children, but changes that occur with aging, make cavities an adult problem, too. To prevent cavities from developing you should brush and floss on a daily basis, in addition to scheduling professional cleanings with Dr. Kathleen Falsey, DDS at Bayberry Dental Care twice a year.

Cavities, or tooth decay, are the destruction of your tooth enamel, the hard, outer layer of your teeth. Tooth decay is heavily influenced by lifestyle, what we eat, how well we take care of our teeth, and the presence of fluoride in our water and toothpaste. Only your dentist can tell for sure if you have one because sometimes cavities cause little to no pain at all. Regardless of how and where they occur, the best way to spot them and treat them before they become serious is by visiting Dr. Kathleen Falsey, DDS for checkups.

If you are experiencing signs of tooth decay, please give us a call to discuss your treatment options. To learn about services we provide at our practice, visit www.bayberrydentalcare.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Kathleen Falsey, DDS in our Tinley Park, IL office, call Bayberry Dental Care at 708-802-8300.

Protect Teeth with Fluoride

Fluoride is commonly called nature’s cavity fighter and there’s a good reason for this. Fluoride helps prevent tooth decay by making the entire tooth surface more resistant to acid attacks from the bacteria that live in the plaque on your teeth. Fluoride also promotes remineralization, which aids in repairing early decay before a cavity forms in the tooth. Here at Bayberry Dental Care, we can provide patients with fluoride treatments to help them protect their pearly whites.

Fluoride is found naturally in soil, water, foods, and several minerals. When present at the right level, fluoride in drinking water has two beneficial effects: preventing tooth decay and contributing to healthy bones. The type of fluoride we utilize at our practice is called topical fluoride. Topical fluoride is applied directly to and absorbed by the surface of the teeth. It may be applied as a foam or gel after a professional cleaning and can additionally be found in personal oral hygiene products such as toothpaste and mouth rinses.

If you think you may benefit from fluoride treatment, please give us a call. To learn about services we provide at our practice, visit www.bayberrydentalcare.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Kathleen Falsey, DDS in our Tinley Park, IL office, call Bayberry Dental Care at 708-802-8300.

Oral Care for Senior Citizens

Advancing age puts many seniors at risk for a number of oral health problems. These problems include but are not limited to darkened teeth, dry mouth, gum disease, tooth loss, root decay and gum disease. Here at Bayberry Dental Care, we have plenty of restorative options for our patients to choose from if they are candidates. However, we encourage you to take care of your teeth on a regular basis, no matter how old you are. 

Seniors are more likely to suffer from a host of oral health issues resulting from their inability to provide themselves with adequate dental hygiene care. Certain medical conditions, such as arthritis in the hands and fingers that may make brushing or flossing teeth difficult to perform. These factors leave many seniors at risk of ignoring tooth decay and tooth infection until there is no alternative but tooth extraction. With regular checkups, problems can be caught in the earliest stages to help prevent serious conditions from occurring. 

If you are a senior seeking dental care please give us a call to discuss your treatment options. To learn about services we provide at our practice, visit www.bayberrydentalcare.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Kathleen Falsey, DDS in our Tinley Park, IL office, call Bayberry Dental Care at 708-802-8300.

Oral Care with Arthritis and Other Hand Difficulties

Arthritis and other conditions that make hands difficult to use can have an unfortunate effect on oral health. It isn’t commonly thought of unless you are actually going through it. At Bayberry Dental Care in Tinley Park, IL, we want all of our patients to be able to take care of their teeth. Take some of these tips!

Brushing your teeth can be difficult with stiff and painful hands. Make it easier on yourself by purchasing a toothbrush with a non-slip grip and a thick handle. This, along with a small toothbrush head will make maneuvering the toothbrush around your mouth a bit easier. Electric toothbrushes are even better for patients with hand trouble, as they do most of the work. They just need to be held in the right positions.

Next, you want to be sure you are still flossing. Cavities are actually more likely to form between your teeth than anywhere else in the mouth. Floss picks are available that do not involve holding on to thin string. However, if you prefer classic dental floss, make sure you are using a piece about eighteen inches long. Wrap the excess around your fingers and hands to make the floss nice and taught. Rotate the floss as you go. It may help to tie the floss into a loop.

One last thing has to do with your toothpaste. It can be hard to unscrew the cap with stiff hands, especially when it gets sticky from toothpaste. Instead, look for a toothpaste that has a flip cap. These are much easier to open and close.

Hand conditions like arthritis may make oral care more difficult, but with some minor tweaks, you can make things go more smoothly. Also, be sure to schedule your routine cleaning and examinations here at Bayberry Dental Care. To schedule in our Tinley Park, IL office call us at (708) 802-8300. We can also be contacted through our website, www.bayberrydentalcare.com. 

Help Nervous Kids Relax at the Dental Office

Some kids love going to the dentist and some are fearful of it. For those kids who fear dental appointments, parents often wonder how to make their child feel more at ease. At Bayberry Dental Care in Tinley Park, IL, we want all of our patients to feel comfortable; patients both big and small. Take some of our tips for easing dental anxiety in kids.

Pretend Dental Visits

By pretending to be the “dentist” at home, your child will feel more comfortable in our office. Try having them lean back in a chair or on a couch while you count their teeth. This will help them know what to expect while in the real dental chair.

 

Start Them Young

Not only does starting kids’ dental visits young help them feel more comfortable in our office, it is actually necessary! Kids should start seeing the dentist as soon as they grow in their first tooth or by the age of one. The younger they start, the more familiar they will feel with the appointments.

 

Reward Good Behavior

Giving your child praise or a reward after good behavior at a dental appointment is a good way to reinforce positive feelings. Take them to a park, let them pick a movie to see, or make their favorite dinner afterward. Be sure to offer the reward after the dental appointment, because you do not want to offer it before, making them feel like there is something to be afraid of. The next time they go to the dentist, they will associate a good appointment with your praise.

 

Kids may feel nervous about dental appointments, but there are ways to help them relax. To schedule your family’s appointments at Bayberry Dental Care here in Tinley Park, IL, call our office at (708) 802-8300. More information about us can be found on our website, www.bayberrydentalcare.com. 

Adds These Foods to Your Menu for Healthy Teeth and Gums!

While you often hear that you need to brush your teeth after eating because leaving the food there can lead to decay, there are actually some foods that benefit your oral health. At Bayberry Dental Care in Tinley Park, IL, we want our patients to have well-rounded oral health. Keep reading to learn about some of the foods that benefit your gums and teeth.

There are actually foods that help to clean your teeth, like crunchy, fibrous fruits and veggies. These foods scrape against your teeth and remove plaque! If you can’t reach for a toothbrush after lunch, reach for some cucumbers or cut up an apple!

Calcium helps build strong teeth. Milk and yogurt are great sources of calcium along with broccoli and spinach. In addition, milk and cheese lowers the levels of acid in your mouth, further protecting teeth and gums.

Citrus fruits like oranges and grapefruits are great for your gums. They strengthen the blood vessels and connective tissues that connect your teeth to your jaw. They also reduce inflammation. Just be careful, acidic foods should be eaten in moderation. The acid can actually harm your teeth by wearing down enamel if eaten too often.

Foods that contain polyphenols like cranberries and tea prevent plaque from growing and sticking to teeth. Less plaque means less risk for cavities, less bad breath, less risk of staining, and more!

Add these foods into your balanced nutrition for added oral health! To schedule a cleaning and examination with Bayberry Dental Care in Tinley Park, IL, call us at (708) 802-8300. More information about us can be found on our website, www.bayberrydentalcare.com. 

Choosing the Right Toothbrush for You

Walking down the toothbrush aisle can bring up a few questions. There are so many different kinds; it can be difficult to know what is right for you. At Bayberry Dental Care in Tinley Park, IL, we want to be sure our patients are able to choose the right toothbrush for them so they are getting the best cleaning.

The first difference many notice about toothbrushes is that some of them are electric. Patients want to know which is better, electric or manual. Studies are showing that manual toothbrushes do the same job cleaning the mouth as the electric ones. The only difference may be for those who cannot use their hands as well, like patients with arthritis. In this case, since the electric toothbrush does most of the work, it may make it easier to do a good job.

A small head is recommended for reaching those hard-to-reach areas in the mouth. You want to make sure you can reach your back molars and a small head makes it easier to brush all sides of them. As far as bristles go, softer bristles are best for removing plaque. Bristles that are too stiff can irritate gums and hurt enamel.

If you are unsure which type of toothbrush is best for you, do not hesitate to ask. To schedule an appointment with Bayberry Dental Care in Tinley Park, IL, call our office at (708) 802-8300 or visit our website, www.bayberrydentalcare.com. 

Advantages of Teeth Whitening

Teeth stain for many reasons, including your food and drink choices, oral hygiene, and medication use. Teeth stain occurs on the surface of the tooth (extrinsic stains) or below the tooth enamel (intrinsic stains) and some people develop both types. Keeping our teeth their whitest is a lot harder than it sounds which is why Dr. Kathleen Falsey, DDS at Bayberry Dental Care offers a teeth whitening service that can provide you with life-changing benefits.

Let’s face it, not all of us are gifted with a perfect set of teeth that sparkle from their whiteness. Not only does being able to show the world your pearly whites give you more self-confidence, but it projects an outward appearance of healthiness that others are attracted to. Whiter teeth are associated with a healthier lifestyle – when people have a brighter smile, they tend to smile more often and are less self-conscious while interacting with people. In addition, one of the biggest advantages of teeth whitening is that it does not have any harmful side effects on your teeth.

If you wish to enhance the aesthetics of your smile, please give us a call to discuss your treatment options. To learn about services we provide at our practice, visit www.bayberrydentalcare.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Kathleen Falsey, DDS in our Tinley Park, IL office, call Bayberry Dental Care at 708-802-8300.

How to Choose a Mouthwash

Mouthwash or rinses are used for a variety of reasons: to freshen breath, to help prevent or control tooth decay, to reduce plaque, to prevent or reduce gingivitis, to reduce the speed that tartar forms on the teeth, or to produce a combination of these effects. Active ingredients vary depending on the type of mouth rinse, but are normally placed into four general groups. While shopping for mouthwash at your local drugstore, it is important when searching for the rinse that’s right for you to look for the American Dental Association (ADA) seal of approval. Mouthwash has many beneficial properties and Dr. Kathleen Falsey, DDS of Bayberry Dental Care would like to explain a few.

• Antimicrobial agents act directly on oral bacteria to help reduce plaque, decrease the severity of gingivitis and control bad breath.


•  Fluoride helps reduce tiny lesions (tooth decay) on tooth enamel and make teeth more resistant to decay.


• Astringent salts can serve as temporary deodorizers that mask bad breath.


• Odor neutralizers act by chemically inactivating odor causing compounds.

If you have any oral hygiene questions, please give us a call. To learn about services we provide at our practice, visit www.bayberrydentalcare.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Kathleen Falsey, DDS in our Tinley Park, IL office, call Bayberry Dental Care at 708-802-8300.

Bruxism Basics

Grinding of your teeth, also known as bruxism can have a variety of causes. Some experts view bruxism as nothing more than a habit. It can also be a result of the body’s reaction when the teeth do not line up or come together properly. Some people grind their teeth only during sleep. This is called “nocturnal bruxism” or “sleep-related bruxism.” Others grind or clench their teeth during the daytime as well. If you experience signs and symptoms of bruxism, Dr. Kathleen Falsey at Bayberry Dental Care can develop an individualized treatment plan for you.

When diagnosing bruxism, Dr. Kathleen Falsey will ask about your general dental health, what sources of stress you have in your life, and what medicines you take. She will then examine you, paying special attention to the muscles in and around your jaw. Additionally, Dr. Falsey may look at your teeth for evidence of grinding as well as check for tenderness in your jaw muscles and the jaw joint.

If you catch yourself grinding or clenching your teeth, please give us a call to discuss your treatment options. To learn about services we provide at our practice, visit www.bayberrydentalcare.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Kathleen Falsey, DDS in our Tinley Park, IL office, call Bayberry Dental Care at 708-802-8300.

When a Tooth Extraction May Be Necessary

Although permanent teeth were meant to last a lifetime, having a tooth pulled is sometimes necessary. At Bayberry Dental Care, Dr. Kathleen Falsey, DDS would like you to know that before she considers extraction, every effort will be made to try to repair and restore your tooth.  You’re probably most familiar with wisdom teeth extractions, but other reasons for the procedure may include:

• Severe tooth damage/trauma – some teeth have such extensive decay and damage (broken or cracked) that repair is not possible.


• Orthodontic treatment – people getting braces may need teeth extracted to create room for teeth that are being moved into place.


• Some teeth may need to be extracted if they have the potential of becoming infected.


• Extra teeth – extra teeth may block other teeth from erupting, therefore, will require extraction.

If you have a tooth that is causing you pain, please give us a call to discuss your treatment options. To learn about services we provide at our practice, visit www.bayberrydentalcare.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Kathleen Falsey, DDS in our Tinley Park, IL office, call Bayberry Dental Care at 708-802-8300.

How to Keep Your Smile White

It can seem difficult to keep your teeth nice and white; however, with a few tips and tricks, it’s actually pretty easy. At Bayberry Dental Care in Tinley Park, IL, we offer professional teeth whitening to give you a head start. In addition, take some of our tips for avoiding staining.

Dark foods and drinks like blueberries, coffee, wine, and soy sauce are common stain culprits. Avoid these dark foods and drinks as much as possible to keep a white smile. We do know that it is not always possible to avoid a consuming something dark, though. So after you eat a dark food or drink something like coffee, be sure to rinse your mouth out with water afterward. It is safe to brush your teeth thirty minutes after eating or drinking. You can also try sipping dark drinks through a straw to avoid contact.

Along with avoiding stain-causers, you will want to keep good oral hygiene. Plaque can cause yellowing, darkening of teeth, and it can trap in stain-causers close to your enamel. To remove plaque, brush two or three times per day and floss once per day.

To learn more about our professional teeth whitening, be sure to contact us. To schedule an appointment with Bayberry Dental Care in our Tinley Park, IL office, call us at (708) 802-8300 or visit our website, www.bayberrydentalcare.com. 

Dental Care with Braces

While wearing braces, you want to ensure you are keeping a clean mouth so you are not increasing the risk of cavities and uneven staining. At Bayberry Dental Care in Tinley Park, IL, we want all of our patients to understand how to keep great oral health. Keep reading for some tips on how to brush and floss while wearing braces.

When brushing, you need to hit all sides of your teeth as you normally would. When it comes to brushing the surfaces where the brackets are wires are attached, you will need a special brushing technique. Brush along the tops and bottoms of all the brackets. Then, take an interdental cleaning brush and brush both sides of each bracket. Look to be sure that there is no leftover plaque on the sides of the brackets.

To floss, using a threader will help you get underneath the wires easier and quicker. Floss threaders or floss with threaders attached at often found where dental supplies are sold.

Keeping a good at-home hygiene routine and coming in for your professional dental cleanings will ensure a healthy mouth after the braces come off. To schedule your cleaning and examination at Bayberry Dental Care in Tinley Park, IL, call us at (708) 802-8300 or visit our website, www.bayberrydentalcare.com. 

Dental Implant Details

Dental implants are replacement tooth roots that provide a strong foundation for fixed (permanent) or removable replacement teeth that are made to match your natural teeth. Dental implants can be used to replace a single tooth, several teeth, or all of the teeth. The goal of teeth replacement is to restore function as well as aesthetics. At Bayberry Dental Care, Dr. Kathleen Falsey will examine the area to be considered for the dental implant and make a clinical assessment of whether you are an eligible candidate.

While the primary function of dental implants is for teeth replacement, there are areas in which implants can assist other dental procedures. Due to their stability, dental implants can be used to support a removable denture and provide a more secure and comfortable fit. Dental implant surgery is usually performed under local anesthetic and therefore, no pain should be felt during the procedure. After the local anesthetic has worn off, the post-surgery discomfort will vary with each individual case.

If you have missing teeth and would like to discuss your treatment options, please give us a call. To learn about services we provide at our practice, visit www.bayberrydentalcare.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Kathleen Falsey, DDS in our Tinley Park, IL office, call Bayberry Dental Care at 708-802-8300.

Post-Extraction Home Care

Keeping your mouth clean after an extraction is vital to a healthy and quick healing process. At Bayberry Dental Care in Tinley Park, IL, we want our patients to be prepared after an extraction. Keep reading to learn about how to take care of your mouth after a tooth is extracted.

The first thing to think about after a tooth has been pulled is getting the bleeding under control. Most likely, you will have gauze in your mouth after the extraction. Keep it in your mouth and change it according to the directions provided by your dentist. In addition, keep away from activities that could promote bleeding like chewing hard food, drinking through a straw, or laying down completely flat. (Prop your head up with an extra pillow for the first night). Eat soft foods for the first day afterwards and bring in harder foods as healing progresses.

Keeping a clean mouth should also be a top priority to avoid infection. Brush your teeth twice per day and floss once, but be careful around the extraction site until healing is complete. Do not rinse your mouth vigorously, as this could promote more bleeding.

For more information on how to take care of your mouth after an extraction, visit our website, www.bayberrydentalcare.com. To set up an appointment with Bayberry Dental Care, call our Tinley Park, IL office at (708) 802-8300. 

Break Those Bad Oral Habits

If you avoid eating cold foods or drinking hot beverages because your teeth are a little tender, it may be time to reflect on your oral care habits. If you have sensitive teeth, Dr. Kathleen Falsey, DDS may recommend dental sealants or fluoride treatments to decrease sensitivity. Sometimes the solution is simply breaking bad habits. If you catch yourself performing any of the following habits, do your best to break them.

• You’re brushing too hard – over time, if you brush with too much force, you can wear down the protective layers of your teeth and expose the microscopic hollow tubes or canals that lead to your dental nerves. When these tubules are exposed, tooth sensitivity is a result.


• You’re eating too many acidic foods – If the pathways to your nerves are exposed, acidic foods will leave you in pain.


• You have tooth decay – If you have tooth decay, it’s easy for bacteria to accumulate in these tiny crevices, which causes acid build-up and enamel breakdown.


• You’re a tooth grinder – Grinding your teeth can wear down your enamel. This exposes the dentin and causes sensitive teeth.

If you suffer from sensitive teeth, please give us a call to discuss your treatment options. To learn about services we provide at our practice, visit www.bayberrydentalcare.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Kathleen Falsey, DDS in our Tinley Park, IL office, call Bayberry Dental Care at 708-802-8300.

Tooth Sensitivity and What it Could Mean

Sensitive teeth can really cause some uncomfortable brushing and even eating. Summer is coming up and many of us want to enjoy refreshing drinks and frozen treats. If tooth sensitivity is bothering you, read on to find out why it could be happening. In addition, schedule an appointment with us at Bayberry Dental Care in Tinley Park, IL so we can make sure you do not have a cavity or an infection.

When a tooth does not have a cavity or an infection, sensitivity is often caused by worn down enamel. Worn down enamel exposes the dentin (the center) of the tooth. The dentin contains tiny tubes that lead to the center of the tooth where all the nerves are, so when these nerves are exposed, you can feel them.

To avoid wearing down your enamel, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, plaque comes off your teeth with a light touch, so do not brush very hard. Second, if you grind or clench your teeth, you may want to consider wearing a night guard. We can create a custom night guard for you.

In addition to brushing too hard, you can also be brushing too soon. The acid in our foods softens our enamel, so you should wait at least thirty minutes after eating or drinking anything but water to brush. Also, try to keep unnecessary acidic foods to a minimum and rinse after eating them.

If you have sensitive teeth, you may just need to change some habits. In other cases, it could be a sign of decay. To schedule an examination at Bayberry Dental Care in Tinley Park, IL, call our office at (708) 802-8300 or visit our website, www.bayberrydentalcare.com. 

Show Off That Smile

With instant photo sharing taking over the internet, you always want to be camera ready. At Bayberry Dental Care we can improve your smile with cosmetic services such as teeth whitening. Using our take home whitening trays, you can whiten you have the convenience of making your pearly whites white in the comfort of your own home so that you can take that perfect selfie.  However, if there is any reason you can’t go the cosmetic route at this moment, we will provide you with these tips that will help you rock the photogenic smile you already have.

• Be natural – when it’s picture time, smile gently. That way, your face looks relaxed. Your mouth opens slightly, and your lower lip matches the curve of your upper teeth.


• Check your teeth and gums – getting your smile camera-ready sometimes calls for a little behind the scenes prep work. If your pearly whites have yellowed with age, try an over-the-counter whitening product or pay us a visit! Also, don’t forget about taking care of your gums. They play a critical role in your nice smile. So keep them in good shape by brushing, flossing, and rinsing with a mouthwash every day.


• Practice – your perfect smile may not happen overnight, but if you have a big photo event like a wedding or a graduation coming up, it doesn’t hurt to try out your grin in front of the mirror!

If you have questions about our whitening services, please give us a call. To learn about other services we provide at our practice, visit www.bayberrydentalcare.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Kathleen Falsey, DDS in our Tinley Park, IL office, call Bayberry Dental Care at 708-802-8300.

The Purpose Teeth Serve

Your teeth are not in your mouth for the sole purpose of looking attractive in pictures. If you don’t take care of your teeth and gums, poor oral hygiene can lead to other health problems in the future. This is why it’s important to visit our staff at Bayberry Dental Care twice a year for oral checkups. If you’ve ever wondered why all of your teeth are different shapes and sizes, Dr. Kathleen Falsey, DDS would like to explain further. Read on to learn about the different types of teeth and the purpose they serve in your mouth! 

• Incisors – located at the front of the mouth, these teeth have a sharp biting surface and are used for cutting or shearing food into small chewable pieces.


• Canines – located at the ‘corners’ of the dental arches, these teeth have a sharp pointed biting surface. Their function is to grip and tear food.


• Premolars – Unlike incisors and canines, these teeth have a flat biting surface. Their function is to tear and crush food.


• Molars – The molars are the largest teeth in the mouth and they too have a large flat biting surface. The function of these is perhaps the strongest of all as they chew, crush, and grind food.

If you have questions about your teeth, please give us a call. To learn about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.bayberrydentalcare.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Kathleen Falsey, DDS in our Tinley Park, IL office, call Bayberry Dental Care at 708-802-8300.

Fight Bad Breath

Bad breath is embarrassing and it can it be frustrating to deal with if it’s a frequent problem for you. Here at Bayberry Dental Care in Tinley Park, IL, we want to offer our patients advice on how to get rid of bad breath and how to keep it away.

Bad breath is caused by bacteria. In order to fight the odor, you need to fight the bacteria. This is one of the reasons why it is so important to brush and floss. In addition, brush your tongue, inner cheeks, and the roof of your mouth. Replace your toothbrush every two or three months to ensure you are not introducing more bacteria into your mouth.

Bacteria also thrive in dry mouth conditions, so be sure to stay hydrated. Drink your daily recommended amount of water and avoid alcoholic drinks and caffeinated drinks, as these dry out your mouth. If you need the caffeine for an energy boost, try green tea. The properties of green tea actually fight odor-causing bacteria, so it keeps you hydrated and fights bad breath. Also, if you use a mouthwash, look for one that does not have alcohol in it.

If you have a dry mouth or bad breath in a pinch, chew mint leaves, parsley, or lemon rinds. The greens neutralize odors and the citrus in lemons stimulates saliva.

Fighting bad breath is not only good news for any close encounters, but eliminating bacteria also creates healthier teeth and gums. For more dental health resources, visit our website, www.bayberrydentalcare.com. To schedule an appointment in our Tinley Park, IL office, call Bayberry Dental Care at (708) 802-8300. 

Oral Care for Kids

Baby teeth are vital to a child for reasons that range from development to speech. It is important to take care of them from when they first appear until they fall out. Bayberry Dental Care of Tinley Park, IL wants to give parents a dental care timeline and give reminders on how to take care of their child’s oral health.

Kids should start seeing the dentist as soon as their first tooth appears. They should be seen by the age of one if they have not grown in their first tooth by then. Baby teeth are what create the spots for permanent teeth, so it is important to keep them healthy while they are around. Baby teeth should be brushed with a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste. Fluoride toothpaste is especially important during the cavity-prone years between the ages of six and fourteen. During this time, dental sealants may be a big help, as well.  

When it comes to flossing it should be done as soon as two teeth touch. Cavities are actually more likely to occur between teeth, so this is an important step to remember. You will also be setting up your child for a great flossing routine of their own when they are old enough.  

To schedule your child’s routine cleaning and examination at Bayberry Dental Care in Tinley Park, IL, call our office at (708) 802-8300. More information can be found on our website, www.bayberrydentalcare.com. 

Getting Kids to Brush and Floss

Getting kids to brush and floss their teeth can be a hassle. It helps when they know just why they are doing it, though, and getting them to take an interest in their health can lead to a lifelong trend. Take some tips from Bayberry Dental Care in Tinley Park, IL to get your kids brushing!

Like previously mentioned, kids are more likely to take an interest in their oral health if they know why they need to do it. Try finding books or videos that explain why brushing and flossing are important. Your local library or perhaps an Internet search should help you out.

In addition, choose kid-friendly dental equipment, or better yet, let your kids pick out their own. There are many toothbrushes with cartoon characters and even ones that play music. There is also toothpaste and floss that are flavored with fun flavors like fruit or bubblegum.

To motivate your child to brush and floss regularly, you may want to create a chore chart. If they brush twice per day and floss once, they get a star for that day. After so many stars, they get a reward! These can be simple rewards like cooking their favorite dinner or heading to the park.

Kids don’t always want to get brushing but with a little help, they will make it part of their daily routines. To schedule your child’s cleaning and examination with Bayberry Dental Care in Tinley Park, IL, call our office at (708) 802-8300. For more information about us, visit our website, www.bayberrydentalcare.com. 

Rotary Endodontics for More Gentle and Quick Root Canals

In the past, root canals had the reputation of being painful. This made patients nervous and want to avoid seeing the dentist. These days, Bayberry Dental Care is excited to share that root canals are no more uncomfortable than having a cavity filled. In our Tinley Park, IL dental practice, we use equipment that helps us provide quicker and gentler root canals.

To understand why this technology helps, it may be helpful to first know how a root canal is performed. We first make an access hole in your tooth to access the center of the tooth. We use a dental drill to drill into the center and remove the infected pulp. We then fill the tooth with a sealant and seal the access hole. In the past, the files used were made of steel and the drilling was performed manually. These days, we use nickel titanium alloy files that are much more flexible. This means that they will not stretch the root canal or cause damage; which decreases pain during and after the procedure. In addition, we use dental drills with these files, so the process is much gentler, quieter, and quicker.

If you are nervous about receiving treatment for an infected tooth, do not wait any longer. Rotary endodontics have provided us with a more gentle and quick way to perform root canals. To schedule your appointment with Bayberry Dental Care in Tinley Park, IL, call us at (708) 802-8300. To learn more about us, visit our website, www.bayberrydentalcare.com. 

The Advantages of Digital X-Rays

A dental practice with advanced technology is one that is able to keep up with modern day demands and one that can provide their patients with the best, most accurate care. One of the ways we have updated our technology is by utilizing digital x-ray. At Bayberry Dental Care in Tinley Park, IL, we are able to give our patients top notch dental care because we implement top notch technology.

Digital x-ray is a way of taken x-ray images digitally instead of with past equipment that needed a dark room. This means faster appointments and more accurate diagnoses. This updated x-ray system is also safer to use for us and our patients. It uses much less radiation than previous systems.

The digital x-ray system instantly displays the x-rays on one of our monitors; no more waiting for the pictures to develop. We can then use advanced computer software to look at areas up close and even detect changes the human eye may have missed. More accurate diagnoses lead to more accurate treatment plans and better patient outcomes.

To learn more about the technology we use here in our Tinley Park, IL dental practice, contact Bayberry Dental Care by calling (708) 802-8300 or by visiting our website, www.bayberrydentalcare.com. 

Occlusal Adjustments for Misaligned Bites

Uneven jaws can cause problems with chewing and pain in the teeth and jaw. In addition, teeth can become more prone to being injured. Here at Bayberry Dental Care in Tinley Park, we perform occlusal adjustments so that our patients have the perfect bite!

When teeth are misaligned, the top and the bottom jaw do not meet up as they should. This can increase the risk of injury, cause unnatural wear-down of teeth, and cause pain. Fortunately, with our advanced technology, we can detect even very tiny errors in bites and correct them accurately.

Our computer technology scans the patient’s mouth and detects any abnormalities. We then attach a very fine filling stone to a dental drill and gently make adjustments to the teeth. Our system is very accurate, so we can make these tiny adjustments without overdoing it.

The end result is a jaw that feels even. The patient should be able to close their teeth without their jaw feeling lopsided. They will be able to chew food correctly and any pain associated with the misalignment will subside. In addition, their teeth are no longer being worn down in unnatural areas.

If you feel your bite is misaligned, schedule an appointment with us for an occlusal adjustment. To schedule at Bayberry Dental Care in Tinley Park, IL, call our office at (708) 802-8300. For more information, visit our website, www.bayberrydentalcare.com. 

Scaling and Root Planing Therapy

If you have a stubborn case of gum disease, Dr. Kathleen Falsey, DDS at Bayberry Dental Care may recommend a dental procedure called dental scaling that is accompanied by root planing. This form of treatment removes plaque and tartar from your teeth and helps your gums regain health. Root planing and scaling is one of the most effective ways to treat gum disease before it advances into something severe.

During the teeth scaling process, Dr. Kathleen Falsey will numb the gums and tooth roots with local anesthesia, but the process itself causes very little discomfort. Dr. Falsey will then use specialized tools to remove the hardened deposits of tartar from the teeth both above and below the gum line. Root planing involves smoothing rough spots on the roots of the teeth that can promote gum disease by trapping bacteria. It’s important to know that once you’ve completed a scaling and root planing procedure this doesn’t give you an excuse to practice poor oral hygiene. You should always brush your teeth twice daily and floss so that your gums quickly regain a firm, healthy, pink appearance.

If you are experiencing pain in your teeth and gums, please give us a call to discuss your treatment options. To learn more about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.bayberrydentalcare.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Kathleen Falsey, DDS at Bayberry Dental Care here in Tinley Park, IL, call 708-802-8300. 

Halitosis Causes and Treatment

Halitosis, commonly known as bad breath, can be embarrassing and leave you self-conscious on a daily basis. If you’ve ever had that not-so-fresh feeling on a date, at a job interview, or just talking with friends, you are not alone. Studies show that 50 percent of adults have bad breath at some point in their lives. Fortunately, our Dr. Kathleen Falsey, DDS and her staff at Bayberry Dental Care can offer your treatment accordingly, depending on the cause.

Some types of bad breath should come as no concern. One example is “morning mouth” that occurs because of the bacteria changes in your mouth while you sleep. More serious burdens of bad breath include infections in your mouth, dry mouth, medications, tobacco products and diabetes. How long bad breath lasts depends on the cause, but if any of these conditions worry you then you should visit us immediately. If you none of the above apply to you but you still have bad breath, review your oral hygiene habits. Try making lifestyle changes, such as brushing your teeth and tongue after eating, using dental floss, and drinking plenty of water.

If you are concerned about your bad breath, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.bayberrydentalcare.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Kathleen Falsey, DDS at Bayberry Dental Care here in Tinley Park, IL, call 708-802-8300. 

Diet and Dental Health

Your body is a machine and you need your teeth to fuel it, which is why Dr. Kathleen Falsey, DDS goes above and beyond to help you take care of them. However, it’s up to you to take care of your machine. One of the most important things you can do for your oral health is schedule regular dental checkups and cleanings twice a year, but you should also make healthy dietary choices on a daily basis. By doing so, you can protect yourself from two of the most common diseases of modern civilization, tooth decay (cavities) and periodontal (gum) disease.

Eating a variety of foods as part of a well-balanced diet may not only improve your dental health, but it may also reduce your risk of developing disorders like cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Each time you eat – what you eat and when you eat it – you create an environment for oral bacteria to develop. Additionally, studies show that dental disease is just as related to overeating as heart disease, obesity, diabetes and hypertension. So making a habit of eating too much of just about anything, too frequently, should be avoided.

If you have further questions about diet affecting your dental health, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.bayberrydentalcare.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Kathleen Falsey, DDS at Bayberry Dental Care here in Tinley Park, IL, call 708-802-8300. 

Athletes and Mouth Guards

Mouth guards are essential accessories in contact sports and have been shown to reduce the risk of sport-related dental injuries. Therefore, if you or your child plays football, hockey, basketball, or any other sport where contact is a possibility, then you should talk to Dr. Kathleen Falsey, DDS about protecting your teeth to ensure that you maintain the highest level of performance on the field or on the court.

Mouth guards also called mouth protectors, help cushion a blow to the face, minimizing the risk of broken teeth and injuries to your lips, tongue, face or jaw. It’s important to know that if you purchase an over-the-counter mouth guard, you risk the chance of it not fitting properly. At Bayberry Dental Care, all of our mouth guards are custom made for the highest level of comfort and protection, because they are made to fit and protect your mouth and your mouth only.

If you think you or your child may benefit from a mouth guard, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.bayberrydentalcare.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Kathleen Falsey, DDS at Bayberry Dental Care here in Tinley Park, IL, call 708-802-8300. 

Dental Bonding to Repair Smiles

A chip or a crack can really affect a smile. While this may seem devastating at first, it is really a simple fix! Here at Bayberry Dental Care in Tinley Park, IL, Dr. Kathleen Falsey, DDS utilizes dental bonding to fix cracks, chips, and other dental imperfections.

Dental bonding is the process of using a tooth-colored composite resin to repair teeth that have been damaged. Dental bonding can also improve the look of gapped teeth, misaligned teeth, misshapen teeth, and even discoloration. It is cosmetic and restorative dental procedure.

To begin the process of dental bonding, Dr. Falsey first will lightly etch the surface of the tooth to aid a strong bond. Next, a resin that has been chosen to match your teeth will be applied and molded into the right shape. For whitening purposes, a resin will be chosen that is brighter than your current shade and it will be applied over the entire surface of your teeth. The resin is hardened and polished for a natural shine. Just like that, your dental imperfection is part of a beautiful smile!

If you are unhappy with part of your smile or have broken a tooth, make sure to schedule your appointment! To schedule with Dr. Kathleen Falsey, DDS at Bayberry Dental Care here in Tinley Park, IL, call us at (708) 802-8300. For more information, visit our website, www.bayberrydentalcare.com. 

Dental Sealants for Extra Protection!

Extra protection has never really been a bad thing. That is why here at Bayberry Dental Care in Tinley Park, IL, we offer dental sealants to our patients. Sealants work to seal out bacteria and debris from the grooves of molars where decay is common.

During the ages of six through fourteen, children seem to go through a cavity-prone phase. Since molar teeth have depressions and grooves in them (called pits and fissures), plaque and other debris often get stuck. This leads to increased risks of decay. Sealing the area can help keep decay at bay and create a strong foundation for life-long healthy teeth.

Dental sealants are made of a tooth-colored plastic material that is painted onto the teeth. The material is hardened and is able to withstand chewing for several years. Sealants are able to be reapplied when it is necessary. While they are ideal for children and teenagers, adults can also benefit from sealants if they have never had a filling or a cavity in their molars.

While brushing and flossing are essential for a healthy mouth, a little extra protection can cut down the risk of decay even more. To learn more about dental sealants or to set up an appointment, call Bayberry Dental Care here in Tinley Park, IL at (708) 802-8300. We can also be reached through our website, www.bayberrydentalcare.com. 

What is a Dental Bridge?

You may have heard of a dental bridge before, but do you know how it works to replace teeth? Dr. Kathleen Falsey, DDS here at Bayberry Dental Care in Tinley Park, IL offers dental bridges to her patients as a popular option for tooth replacement.

Dental bridges are very true to their name; they really are like a bridge. When a tooth goes missing, there is a space in between teeth. A bridge uses the two teeth adjacent to the open space to attach a replacement tooth. The bridge itself consists of two crowns with a “pontic”, the replacement tooth, in the middle. The crowns are placed on the adjacent teeth which are prepared ahead of time. The pontic fits snugly into the open space, restoring your ability to bite and chew.

Bridges are able to be made to blend in perfectly with your smile. They can be made tooth-colored so that it looks natural as ever. Bridges are a very popular and common restoration option for patients with missing teeth. If the open space is on the end of the row of teeth, there is even a bridge option that will work for that situation.

Missing teeth can be a hassle and can alter the health of your mouth. Replacement is important. To learn more about dental bridges, contact Bayberry Dental Care of Tinley Park, IL by calling us at (708) 802-8300. For more information, visit our website, www.bayberrydentalcare.com. 

Night Guards for Protection Against Grinding and Clenching

Grinding your teeth can render real damage to teeth, the jaw structure, and even the facial structure. Many people do not even know that they grind their teeth because it may happen at night. Dr. Kathleen Falsey, DDS has a solution for patients in our Tinley Park, IL dental practice. Here at Bayberry Dental Care, Dr. Falsey is able to recognize night grinding and offer protection.

Night grinding can create painful and sensitive teeth, jaw pain, facial pain, and even tooth damage. Many people do not notice they grind their teeth at night until a sleep partner notices them doing it or their dentist recognizes signs. Some of these signs include grooves in the teeth, fracture lines in teeth, and worn down teeth. Night grinding may also present itself in TMJ pain.

To protect the teeth from damage and to cushion the jaw and facial structures, Dr. Falsey can provide her patients with a night guard. A night guard is a mouthpiece worn while you sleep. It creates a barrier between the top and bottom teeth; positioning the jaw in a healthy setting. For night grinders, a night guard is essential to maintain oral health and relieve pain.

If you suspect you are grinding your teeth or frequently wake up with a sore jaw, schedule an appointment with Dr. Kathleen Falsey, DDS for an examination. To schedule in our Tinley Park, IL office, call us at (708) 802-8300. For more information about Bayberry Dental Care or night guards, visit our website, www.bayberrydentalcare.com. 

Inlays and Onlays for Restored Smile Confidence!

When teeth have become weak from decay or injury, they can often make a smile appear unhealthy. For a natural, strong restoration, Dr. Kathleen Falsey, DDS of Bayberry Dental Care in Tinley Park, IL utilizes inlays and onlays. Inlays and onlays are able to repair a damaged tooth and restore a smile!

For teeth that have more damage than a filling could hold, but not so much that a full crown needs to be applied, inlays and onlays are the perfect options. Often referred to as partial crowns, they cover the chewing surface of the teeth. Inlays cover the chewing surface between all the cusps; onlays cover the chewing surface, plus one or more of the cusps.

Inlays and onlays are able to be made from gold, porcelain, or composite resin. We are able to make them completely customized so they suit your teeth the best. In addition, they are able to look just like a natural part of a tooth. When you smile, no one will be able to tell you have a restoration!

If you are tired of eating around a tooth because of weakness or desiring an update for your smile, an inlay or onlay may be just what you need. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Kathleen Falsey, DDS of Bayberry Dental Care, call our Tinley Park, IL office at (708) 802-8300. For more information, visit our website, www.bayberrydentalcare.com.