Glen Ellyn Dentistry, PC

08/06/2026

Thank you to all who voted for us!! Call us if you need an appointment at 630-942-0727

07/27/2026

We apologize, but our power is out due to the recent storm. We will be closed the rest of today, Monday, July 27th.

07/26/2026

This is why even a small cavity should never be ignored.

A cavity may look small on the surface, but that doesn’t always reflect the amount of damage hidden inside the tooth.

Unlike enamel, the dentin beneath it is softer and less mineralized, allowing tooth decay to spread more quickly once bacteria break through the outer protective layer. Because this process often occurs silently, many cavities continue to grow without causing pain or obvious symptoms.

By the time a tooth starts to hurt, the decay may have already reached the pulp—the living tissue that contains nerves and blood vessels. At that stage, treatment is often more complex and may require root canal treatment or, in severe cases, tooth extraction.

The good news is that most cavities are highly treatable when detected early. Regular dental checkups and timely treatment can preserve more of the natural tooth, reduce treatment costs, and help prevent avoidable complications.This is why even a small cavity should never be ignored.

A cavity may look small on the surface, but that doesn’t always reflect the amount of damage hidden inside the tooth.

Unlike enamel, the dentin beneath it is softer and less mineralized, allowing tooth decay to spread more quickly once bacteria break through the outer protective layer. Because this process often occurs silently, many cavities continue to grow without causing pain or obvious symptoms.

By the time a tooth starts to hurt, the decay may have already reached the pulp—the living tissue that contains nerves and blood vessels. At that stage, treatment is often more complex and may require root canal treatment or, in severe cases, tooth extraction.

The good news is that most cavities are highly treatable when detected early. Regular dental checkups and timely treatment can preserve more of the natural tooth, reduce treatment costs, and help prevent avoidable complications. Call us for your check up today! 630-942-0727

07/18/2026

One rejection after another nearly ended her dream—but it ended up changing dentistry forever.

In the mid-1800s, dentistry was considered a profession only for men. When Lucy Beaman Hobbs applied to dental schools across the United States, she was repeatedly denied admission—not because she lacked ability, but simply because she was a woman.

Instead of giving up, Lucy persuaded a practicing dentist to train her privately. She studied tirelessly, gained practical experience, and began treating patients, proving that skill—not gender—defines a great dentist. Her success eventually challenged long-held beliefs and changed attitudes toward women in dentistry.

In 1866, the Ohio College of Dental Surgery admitted Lucy and awarded her a dental degree, making her the first woman in the world to earn a dental degree. Her historic achievement broke one of the strongest barriers in professional education and inspired more dental schools to open their doors to women.

Today, women make up a large and growing part of the dental profession around the world—a legacy that began with one woman who refused to let discrimination define her future.

History wasn’t changed by permission. It was changed by persistence.

07/15/2026

This is why maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial during braces treatment.

Braces can straighten your teeth—but poor oral hygiene during treatment can lead to cavities and gum disease.

Braces make it easier for plaque and food particles to collect around brackets, wires, and along the gumline. If these areas are not cleaned thoroughly every day, harmful bacteria can multiply, increasing the risk of white spot lesions (early enamel demineralization), tooth decay, and gum inflammation.

Those chalky white marks that sometimes appear after braces are not just stains—they are areas where the enamel has permanently lost minerals. Without timely care, these weakened areas can progress into cavities, while plaque buildup around the gums may lead to gingivitis and, if left untreated, periodontal disease.

Maintaining excellent oral hygiene during orthodontic treatment is just as important as wearing the braces themselves. Careful brushing around every bracket, daily interdental cleaning, fluoride use when recommended, and regular dental check-ups help protect the teeth while they are being moved into their ideal position.

A successful orthodontic treatment is not measured only by straight teeth—it is measured by straight, healthy, cavity-free teeth with healthy gums.

07/13/2026

Healthy gums act as a natural barrier, helping keep oral bacteria where they belong. But when gum disease causes the gums to become inflamed, tiny openings can allow bacteria to enter the bloodstream—a process known as bacteraemia.

In most healthy people, the immune system clears these bacteria quickly. However, repeated episodes from untreated gum disease may contribute to inflammation throughout the body and have been associated with conditions affecting the heart, brain, and other organs.

Healthy gums don’t just protect your smile—they help protect your overall health.

📚 Study References:
Van D**e TE. Periodontal disease: A systemic condition. Periodontology 2000. 2024

07/11/2026

Bleeding gums are more than just a dental problem—they can become a gateway for bacteria to enter the bloodstream.

Healthy gums act as a protective barrier between the mouth and the rest of the body. When gums become inflamed and bleed due to gingivitis or periodontitis, that barrier is weakened.

Everyday activities such as brushing, flossing, or even chewing can allow oral bacteria and their toxic byproducts to enter the bloodstream, a process known as bacteremia. In most healthy people, the immune system clears these bacteria quickly. However, repeated exposure from untreated gum disease may contribute to chronic, low-grade inflammation throughout the body.

A growing body of scientific research has linked periodontal disease with an increased risk of several systemic conditions, including cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, adverse pregnancy outcomes, rheumatoid arthritis, and cognitive decline.

While gum disease does not directly cause these conditions, persistent oral inflammation may play a role by increasing inflammatory mediators and placing additional stress on the immune system.

• Disclaimer: This post is for educational purposes only and not a substitute for professional dental advice.

07/08/2026