Grove's Blog

Grove's Blog

Posts for: March, 2012

March 29, 2012
Category: Dental

Dental restoration is the process of restoring damaged or missing teeth to a healthy, functional and beautiful state. Delaying treatment may lead to more serious problems and require more extensive dental work down the road, so it’s important to talk to your dentist as soon as you notice a problem.

At Grove, we have a team of doctors who are highly trained and experienced in the restoration of damaged and missing teeth.  Whether you need a tooth-colored filling, porcelain crown, root canal or any other replacement for missing teeth, Grove will help you regain the function and natural beauty of your smile while providing improved comfort.

Long-term Consequences of Missing or Damaged Teeth

For many, a compromised smile and appearance serve as the chief motivating factor to restore damaged or missing teeth. Tooth restoration provides more than enhanced smile aesthetics, however. Teeth are necessary for the health of the gum tissues and jaw as well, and they provide important functions such as the ability to chew and speak.  Missing teeth—whether it’s a single tooth or several —can lead to more serious issues including shifting of adjacent teeth, difficulty eating and speaking, jawbone deterioration and poor self-confidence.  

Grove Dental is experienced in all aspects of restorative dentistry, allowing patients to acquire a healthy and functional smile.  For more information, call any Grove office to schedule a consultation with a doctor.  Already have a diagnosis for a needed restoration? Call and schedule an appointment to begin treatment.


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March 23, 2012
Category: General
Tags: Jaw Pain   TMD   Snoring  

Grove Dental Can Help

If you're experiencing headaches, swelling and pain near the jaw joint or locking of the jaw, you may be suffering from temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD), a condition that occurs when the joint that connects your jawbone to your skull is not aligned properly. People with TMD often experience a lot of discomfort and pain, as there is a constant pressure on the jawbones, nerves and muscles.

Or maybe it is not jaw pain that is afflicting you, but it’s your snoring, rather.  You or a loved one may snore loudly through each night, leaving you restless and groggy the next day.  Snoring isn’t just a nuisance. It can also be a sign of a serious condition called sleep apnea.  Sleep apnea is caused by blockage in the airway that disrupts the natural breathing pattern. Untreated and undiagnosed, sleep apnea can lead to serious conditions such as stroke or heart disease.

Whether you’re a chronic snorer or suffering from jaw pain, let Dr. Lipskis help you.  Dr. Lynn Lipskis is a former TMD sufferer and now concentrates exclusively on treating patients with jaw pain and sleep disorders. She brings years of experience in diagnosing and treating both of these conditions and would love to talk to you about your symptoms.

"If you’re suffering from chronic pain, I invite you to visit for a consultation. Let’s discuss the many options available to eliminate TMD and sleep disorders from your life.” – Dr. Lipskis


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March 16, 2012
Category: Oral Health

You know the routine: brush twice a day, floss daily and visit your dentist regularly to keep teeth healthy and strong.  Most of us have had these oral health habits instilled in us since we were young, and now they’ve become a normal part of our daily routines.  Good dental hygiene is a vital part of protecting teeth from harmful plaque and gum disease, while maintaining your best looking smile.

Apart from good dental hygiene, your diet and physical well-being can also play a major role in the health of your teeth and gums.  Good nutrition and exercise can keep your body healthy and reduce or eliminate stress, which will help resolve issues with teeth grinding, gum disease and other dental problems.   When teeth and gums are healthy, your entire body benefits, and your efforts may even help ward off serious systemic diseases like heart disease, diabetes and stroke which have been linked to gum disease.

Healthy Foods, Healthy Mouth

Your food choices also have a big impact on the health of your smile.  Eat a well-balanced diet that is low in sugar, as sugary and starchy foods are the biggest culprits in cavities and decay.  Avoid overeating, which can cause indigestion and acid reflux that can damage teeth and gums.  Instead of drinking soda, which is highly acidic, replace it with water.  If cutting out junk food is hard, then be sure to rinse and brush your teeth whenever you’ve strayed from a healthy food choice. Store a toothbrush or floss at the office or in your car so you are always prepared.

Combine your healthy eating habits with regular exercise for good heart health, circulation and reduced stress.  All of these positive lifestyle habits will be reflected in your dental health.

Bottom line: It pays off to maintain a lifestyle of good nutrition and exercise. Your oral health and general health go hand in hand, and a combination of good oral hygiene, regular visits to your dentist, proper nutrition and an exercise regimen will be evident in the way your whole body looks and feels, including your smile!


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March 02, 2012
Category: General

We sat down with Dr. Norma Ericson to learn more about her decision to become a dentist, her passion for dentistry, and her interests outside of the office.

How did you decide that you wanted to become a dentist?
Dr. Ericson:  After working as a dental assistant while studying abroad in England, I realized that my true passion lied not just in fixing teeth, but putting lasting smiles on my patients’ faces. It was then that I decided to pursue a career in dentistry. After completing dental school, I came to Grove Dental and have been here ever since.  

In what ways are you committed to continuing education?
Dr. Ericson: I received my Doctorate of Dental Surgery from the University of Illinois College of Dentistry. Since then I’ve continually exceeded the yearly-required amount of continuing education in order to stay abreast of the latest dental techniques and technologies.  The quality of dentistry I provide stems from my disciplined and committed approach toward education and learning. But all the schooling in the world can’t teach the personal attention I provide to each of my patients. It’s this balance of education and personalized care that keeps patients coming back year after year.

How would you describe your approach to caring for your patients’ dental health?
Dr. Ericson: During my time at Grove, I’ve learned that the key to effective dentistry is a partnership between the patient, my staff and me. Our entire staff is involved in caring for our patients and providing them with information regarding the patient’s dental care. Then, the patient makes the best choice. This involvement in decision-making helps ensure patients have all the information needed for optimal dental health.

Outside of dentistry, what are some of your favorite pastimes?
Dr. Ericson:  Outside of the office, I enjoy spending time with my family, friends and my dog. I also love the outdoors, spending time running, biking, hiking, or swimming when I find the time. More recently I took a painting class to try something new! 


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