OFFICE UPDATES

 

Update: November 1, 2023

 

Periodontal Homecare Patient Protocol 

Here at Grateful Dental, we are committed to providing you and your family a superior level of in-office and home dental care. This requires us to stay current on all the latest research, science and technology to make sure we are providing you a well-balanced and high level of the most effective periodontal, restorative, eco-friendly (green, sustainable), holistic and cosmetic care to all our patients. 

 

An excellent oral care regimen is just as important, if not arguably more important, than your skin and fitness regimen. Your mouth is the portal to the rest of your body and directly affects your overall health. It is one of the most underestimated and ignored regimen in the healthcare world, yet one of the most essential and missing links to overall health. Below is the ultimate homecare regimen we recommend to help keep your oral immune system and periodontal health at its most optimal state. We have listed, in order, the proper oral healthcare regimen for your convenience:

 

• Water Flossing

• • Why water floss? We all know flossing is essential, yet so few of us manage to do it regularly and keep it up daily. Water flossers are simple to use and do a more effective job of cleaning your teeth than a piece of string alone. This tool cleans your teeth and gums without physical contact using a concentrated stream of pressurized water to flush out plaque and bacteria, reduce acids and sugars and help to neutralize any acid to a pH of 7. It is essential in cleaning around implants, crowns and bridges, 3rd molars and free-standing teeth.  

• Recommended water flossers: We only recommend Waterpik water flossers. Unfortunately, many knock off brands tend to break and stop working. Waterpik has an great overall reputation and does an excellent job when used properly. The  features of adjustable pulsating water pressure, interchangeable spray nozzle tips and rotating head are what makes your device effective. Our favorite models are the Waterpik ION portable water flosser and the Waterpik Aquarius water flosser. 

• Proper use and technique: Proper use of your water flosser is essential in getting the results necessary for good oral health. Make sure to use only warm water in your unit for tooth and gingival comfort. NO MOUTHWASH OR SALT/BAKING SODA, it will clog and ruin your device. Place your nozzle of choice between your teeth while closing your mouth. Turn the device on and use for 3-5 seconds in between your spaces. Make sure to access the cheek sides and the roof of mouth and tongue access points. Covering all these spaces are key for getting good results. Make sure to turn the handle off before opening and removing from your mouth to avoid water splashing.

2.   Brushing your Teeth:

• • Toothbrush recommendations: We recommend Oral-B electric toothbrushes, but manual is ok if you prefer.  Brush your teeth at least 2 times per day for 2 minutes using a soft or extra-soft bristled toothbrush. Replace your toothbrush or attachment every 3 to 4 months or sooner if it is frayed or splayed. There are many techniques for different situations, but the most common for good periodontal health is the Bass (sulcular) brushing technique. Place your toothbrush at a 45 degree angle to your gums and brush with gentle, short back and forth strokes. Make sure to brush the outer, inner and biting surfaces. 

• Toothpaste recommendations: We recommend the use of natural antioxidant based toothpastes from Periosciences. These plant-based and antioxidant toothpastes were co-created by a Periodontist focused on producing products that are chemical and alcohol free with the focus on antimicrobial, antiinflammatory, oral immune boosting ingredients with decades of research behind their line.  If you prefer to choose an OTC toothpaste, we recommend  Pronamel or Sensodyne and check ingredients to make sure it contains potassium nitrate and fluoride.

3. Mouthwash:

• We DO NOT recommend most mouthwash brands found in your local drug stores due to their use of unnecessary chemicals and alcohol that will disrupt your natural mouth flora and also eliminate the good bacteria your mouth needs for oral immune stability, pH and balance.  
• Again, Periosciences offers a line of natural, plant-based, antioxidant and essential oil options that are antimicrobial, hydrating and pH balanced. 

4. Periosciences ProVantage Antioxidant Gel “AO Gel”

• AO Gel, as we call it, is a result of years of research with a community of dentists containing plant-based, antioxidant, essential oils to help with many oral issues like dry mouth, bleeding, inflammation, sores, autoimmune and chemotherapy/radiation or conditions and injury. Its success, when used consistently, is unmatched in our opinion. It is the last thing applied in your home care regimen. It is mainly applied 2x per day (up to 5) at the end of your morning routine and at bedtime. One full pump, directly on your tongue with even distribution on all gum surfaces is sufficient to help with all your periodontal issues. Refrain from eating or drinking for 30 minutes after use. 

 

Update 01/21/2023

The Importance of Oral Health in COVID-19 Era

Are you overdue for your dental wellness exam and cleaning? Have you been too preoccupied to schedule an appointment? While we understand that everyone is doing their best in this unprecedented time, you may want to rethink putting off scheduling or postponing your appointment.

A case study published on January 18, 2021 by the Journal of Clinical Periodontology on the Association between periodontitis and severity of COVID-19 infection concluded that “periodontitis was associated with higher risk of ICU admission, need for assisted ventilation and death of COVID-19 patients, and with increased blood levels of biomarkers linked to worse disease outcomes.”

The aim of the study was to investigate the association of periodontitis (gum disease) with COVID-19 complications and showed that the risk of COVID-19 complications were significantly higher among patients with moderate-to-severe gum disease compared to those with milder or no gum disease. 

Specifically, the study found that “COVID-19 patients with gum disease were 3.5 times more likely to be admitted to intensive care, 4.5 times more likely to need assisted breathing (ventilator), and close to 9 times more likely to die compared to COVID-19 patients without gum disease.”

Periodontitis shares common risk factors with most chronic inflammatory diseases known to influence COVID-19 severity, and has been shown to affect systemic health systems including cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, hypertension, chronic renal disease, pneumonia, cancer, and increases the risk or mortality. Additionally, the study revealed that the oral cavity and/or periodontal pockets of those with gum disease could act as a viral reservoir (basically incubating the virus)!

It is crucial, now more than ever, that we do everything necessary to reduce risk, and this includes oral care. If you’re overdue for your wellness exam with your dentist, we are advising you to come in as soon as possible to have your gums evaluated. Call us for an appointment (773)631-6060. 

 

Update 01/21/2023

Nupro Freedom Cordless Prophy System

Safety is our top priority! We want all of our grateful patients to know about our safety measures. We are proud to have the Nupro Freedom Prophy System, the safest method to polish teeth in our industry!

The CDC guidelines state that “dental handpieces and associated attachments should always be heat sterilized between patients.” The Nupro Freedom is designed to completely comply with the CDC standards for infection prevention. The inner module is protected from debris by disposable polyethylene barriers. The autoclavable outer sheath prevents contamination of the inner module, and the elimination of seams and entrapments areas where bacteria and contaminants can build up greatly reduces the production of aerosols compared to other coronal polishing systems.

In addition to the hygienic design, the Nupro Freedom is also lightweight and cordless, offering enhanced control and more convenience. It operates with SmartMode® Technology, allowing a quiet output of 25% more speed and power, delivering a consistent and splatter-free performance.

 

Thursday: 8:00 AM-2:00 PM

Saturday: 9:00 AM-2:00 PM

 

Update 06/30/2022

As a healthcare facility, face coverings are still required in the dental office as per the Executive Order issued by Governor JB Pritzker. We continue to limit entry into the office to only those with appointments, caretakers, and parents/guardians. We still ask that you notify us once you’ve arrived and wait in your vehicle until instructed to come to the front door. You may also use our outdoor seating area behind the office.

 

 

 

Update 06/16/2022

Update 02/28/2022

We will continue to require masks when entering our facility. We are continuing to screen one patient at a time. Please call upon arrival to gain entrance. We are grateful to our patients for their understanding that our patient family is very diverse, especially in their medical situations. As we move from a pandemic to an endemic we will continue to provide the safest patient environment possible. 

Update 12/22/2021

 

Update 10/11/2021

 

Update 10/05/2021

This is a reminder that we still require everyone entering our office to wear a mask. The CDC guidelines state that masks be worn in medical offices for the safety of everyone. Only patients with appointments are allowed in the office. This helps us with keeping the number of people in the waiting room to a minimum and allows maintaining safe distances between patients. We appreciate everyone doing their part in keeping each other safe!

 

Update 12/14/2020

Mask Mouth 

“Mask Mouth” is real! Increased carbon dioxide and decreased oxygen promotes anaerobic bacteria which is the most destructive type of pathogen for periodontal disease and cavities. When the oral pH is low, from GERD, for example, it’s twice as bad. Since hindsight is 2020 let’s revisit some basics heading into 2021. The buildup of bacteria and inflammation of gum tissue, thanks to the mouth breathing that we do inside of masks can be controlled. Drink more water to keep your mouth moist, reduce your consumption of caffeine, scraping your tongue regularly, and not smoking really helps. If you don’t have hot water radiant heat, using a humidifier is also helpful. Instead of using alcoholic mouthwashes, we recommend AO Gel as our favorite brushing and flossing add-on. 

With all of the mask options available, you might wonder what is an effective mask, and what is the best way to take care of your non disposable mask. ACS Nano published a paper that tested the effectiveness of cloth masks and found that high thread count cotton (600 thread count or higher per inch) filters out 79% of particles smaller than 0.3 microns. (SARS-CoV-2 particles are 0.125 microns in diameter.) They also found that when you layer a high thread count cotton with either polyester, or with two layers of natural silk or chiffon, these “hybrid” masks are 94-97% effective. Single layer or low thread count cotton masks are found to be largely ineffective; 80 thread per inch cotton was found to filter out less than 10% of sub 0.3 microns particles. While HEPA filters are extremely effective, they should never be worn in a mask because they are made with microscopic glass or acrylic fibers which are harmful to the lungs. Please help protect the environment by wearing washable masks, “Wash One, Wear One.” The best way to clean your reusable mask is to wash it in hot water using laundry detergent. Never use bleach because if inhaled, it can damage the respiratory tract. Additionally, it can damage the fabric of the face mask, reducing its effectiveness.

Disposable masks vary in effectiveness and increase waste. Single use masks that have three or preferably four layers with a metal strip at the top to secure the mask around the bridge of your nose. The most effective masks have at least three pleats to enable a good fit around the nose, mouth, and chin. Please dispose of these types of masks after use. These cannot be washed. Be careful with N95s, although they filter 95% of particles 0.3 microns in size, they can be hard to breath in if you are not used to wearing them. KN95 is the Chinese equivalent of these, which is similar, however, much harder to determine authenticity. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Update 08/31/2020

We are grateful to our patients that have been in to see us during the last 6 months. We thank you for your loyalty, which enabled us to fully staff our office. While the cost to obtain personal protective equipment (PPE) is still 5-10 times greater than before the pandemic, we have decided to include the cost for PPE into our standard fees. Starting September 4th, we will no longer be charging a separate $20 PPE fee. 

As we continue to monitor CDC and IDPH guidelines to ensure that we comply with all their recommended precautions. These include:

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):

• All staff are required to wear the appropriate PPE for each patient. This PPE may include scrubs, surgical caps, N95 or level 3 surgical masks, eye protection, gloves, surgical gowns, and face shields.
• In accordance with state regulations, we require all patients and visitors over two years of age to wear masks when entering our building. Patients may only take off their mask during their procedure.

Social Distancing:

• We have limited the number of patients and visitors allowed in our office. 
• We ask that only one caregiver or family member accompany a minor in the building at a time and have provided an outdoor waiting area.
• Our waiting area is now a screening area and we are asking patients to wait in their car until we call you in for your appointment.

Screening:

• We screen all visitors and staff for symptoms, high risk behavior, contactless temperature checks, and ask everyone to use hand sanitizer upon entry.
• We have implemented ultraviolet sanitizing bags and sanitize your belongings upon entry. Anything too big for our UV bag will be ziplocked prior to entering the operating theatre.

Enhanced Cleaning Protocol:

• We disinfect all surfaces in our operatories as well as all high touch surfaces with products that exceed EPA and CDC criteria for use against SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19.
• All high touch surfaces areas are also deep cleaned throughout our day and at the end of each day by members of our team. 

Cleaner Air:

• Our cleaning doesn’t stop at disinfecting surfaces! We have implemented a Surgically Clean Jade Air purifier that removes bio-aerosols, viruses, molds, allergens, pollutants, dust particles, pollen, and cleaning chemicals from the air. Information about our Jade air unit can be found here: https://scadental.com/core-technologies/
• We have installed an ultraviolet HVAC filter and are able to purify our office space 24 hours a day, leaving our office with cleaning, purified air.

 

We thank you again for putting your trust in us and making us your safe dental home.

 

 

 

 

 

Grateful Update: 07/19/2020 

The SARS COV-2 virus continues to spread in our nation. Please wash your hands often and social distance, “be sweet, stay 6 feet.” Wear a face mask whenever possible and if you do not have access to clean facemasks, we will provide you with a new washable mask. Disposable masks are not good for the environment. Grateful Dental continues to work hard to reduce our carbon footprint and help curb global warming. We have always laundered our scrubs and surgical gowns on site. We change gowns for every patient. We wear autoclavable shoes instead of disposable booties and washable surgical caps instead of disposable caps. We try to use plastic disposables such as suction tips that are made from renewable fossil-free recyclable raw materials like bamboo or sugarcane. The cost of masks, gloves, disposable gowns, and supplies to ensure our Grateful patients’ safety have increased 5 to 10 times more than in February 2020. Our PPE fee of $20 will continue per patient per visit until costs become more reasonable. Safety for our patients is our top priority.

 

Grateful Update: 06/30/2020

There is a new procedure upon arrival for your appointment. Payment for your estimated portion is due prior to your procedure. Payments may be made by phone before your appointment or during check-in. Your mask, method of payment, keys, glasses, and phone will be sterilized using a UV sterilizer bag upon arrival. You will be given a complimentary breathable, washable Grateful Dental mask to wear and to take home. *Please try to avoid bringing large purses, backpacks, and luggage. Questions about your estimated portion should be discussed prior to arrival via phone, text, or email.

 

Grateful update 6-8-20:

Our Grateful patient community has been through a lot this spring. While many things have changed, our commitment to safety has never changed. Infection control remains our top priority for our grateful family.  We want to continue to update you about the infection control procedures that will keep our patients and staff safe. In addition to our Jade Air Purifier we now have an aerosols evacuation unit called the “Aerosol Annihilator.”  Our operatories have been remodeled to prepare for SARS Cov-2 and all future pathogens which may or may not present in the future.

Changes you will see on your next visit include a screening process prior to your entrance to our office. A tele-dentistry zoom conference is now necessary for emergencies and new patients. Patients without access to zoom can still be screened in their cars or our new outdoor waiting area. No one without an appointment will be allowed in our office. We are allowing greater time between patients to allow for additional protocols in the office. We are limiting the number of patients in our office to a maximum of two at any given time.  This may greatly reduce appointment availability. If you had your appointment rescheduled due to the pandemic, you are top of our patient list and we will contact you soon. Thank you for being grateful patients. We value your trust and loyalty. If you currently have a scheduled appointment in June, please contact us.  Phone (773) 631-6060, text (773) 631-1624, or email [email protected].

Dr. Wittmus has been able to procure enough PPE necessary to continue seeing emergency patients. If you have a dental infection or pain, please do not go to the emergency care facilities; contact our office- we are available by phone (773) 631-6060 or email at [email protected].