The Blog of Dr. Patricia Gilleran

Love your smile? Tell Chicago all about it!

2011-11-28T09:39:00.000-08:00

We hope you had a great Thanksgiving weekend! If you've ever visited our convenient office located in Chicago's Loop, you know we offer professional individualized dental care to make your smile beautiful and healthy. Dr. Gilleran and Dr. Van Fossen, along with our personable staff, are committed to providing a clean and comfortable atmosphere for up-to-date preventive, restorative and cosmetic dental care.

Whether you’ve just come in once for a cleaning or your family has been visiting us for years, we’d love to hear your feedback. You can write a review on our Google Places page or on our Yelp listing.

We look forward to reading your feedback!

A season of thanks

2011-11-21T06:27:00.001-08:00

With the hustle and bustle of the holiday season right around the corner, Dr. Patricia Gilleran, Dr. Amy Van Fossen and our entire staff wanted to stop for a moment to say how thankful we are to have you in our dental family. We realize that our practice here in Chicago's Loop thrives because of great patients like you. We are the lucky ones because we not only help keep you and your smile healthy, but we also have the pleasure of knowing you and your loved ones.

As always, if you know anyone we can help, just let us know. We promise to give them the same quality care that we have given you.

We hope that this Thanksgiving and holiday season brings fond memories. Thank you for being part of our family.

How important is your smile? From Drs. Gilleran & Van Fossen

2011-11-14T09:27:00.000-08:00

At the office of Drs. Gilleran and Van Fossen, we offer professional individualized dental care to make your smile beautiful and healthy. The bottom line is, we know having a beautiful smile is important to you. It’s important to us, too.

And speaking of smiling, in a poll conducted by Glamour Magazine earlier this year, people were asked, “If you had to pick between having perfect teeth, eyesight or hair, which would you choose?”

Well, 44 percent of folks out there chose teeth! In addition, the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, or AACD, conducted a study and found that 99.7 percent of those polled believed a smile is an important social asset. Respondents said straightness, whiteness, cleanliness, as well as the sincerity and sparkle of one’s smile were all important factors not only socially, but career-wise as well.

Please give us a call at 312-368-8771 or email office@drgilleran.com to schedule your appointment at our convenient office in Chicago’s Loop!

The Gilleran & Van Fossen team learn newest C.P.R. technique

2011-11-09T19:06:00.000-08:00

We want to share some good news about our dental team. We closed early on Monday to educate the team with the latest C.P.R. technique. We are all certified to perform C.P.R. on infants, children and adults. It's unbelievable how a few seconds can make a difference in an emergency situation! Feels great to refresh our C.P.R. skills and know we're ready should an emergency arise!

Enjoy the rest of the week!

Dr. Van Fossen & Dr. Yum celebrate Halloween!

2011-11-07T08:13:00.000-08:00

Dr. Yum celebrates Halloween with Dr. Van Fossen and her Princess Leia & Obi-Wan Kenobe. We hope everyone enjoyed Halloween and want to remind you to brush & floss after ALL that candy.

Year-end insurance reminder from Drs. Gilleran & Van Fossen

2011-10-31T20:51:00.000-07:00

Drs. Gilleran and Van Fossen, as well as our entire team, would like to give those patients with flex spend, health savings, or insurance benefits a friendly end of the year reminder that it's about that time to schedule your dental visit(s) so you can optimize your benefits!

Now is the time to reserve you appointment with us. Space is limited and we get VERY busy around the holiday season, so don’t wait to give us a call at 312-368-8771! We hope you had a GREAT Halloween weekend!

The importance of oral cancer screenings, from Drs. Gilleran and Van Fossen

2011-10-25T21:35:00.000-07:00

In our continuing efforts to provide the most advanced technology and highest quality care available to our patients, Gilleran and Van Fossen Cosmetic Dentistry screens our patients for oral cancer. The fact is, every hour of every day in the U.S., someone dies of oral cancer, which is the sixth-most common diagnosed form of the disease. The five-year survival rate is only 50 percent, and oral cancer is one of the few cancers whose survival rate has not improved.

Early detection of pre-cancerous tissue can minimize or eliminate the potentially disfiguring effects of oral cancer and possibly save your life. Ask Drs. Gilleran or Van Fossen about a screening at your next appointment! In addition to oral cancer screenings, we offer complimentary blood pressure screenings, take-home test kits for testing your cholesterol level and snoring/sleep apnea appliances.

Call us at 312-368-8771 or email office@drgilleran.com to schedule your appointment!

15 Creative Uses for Toothpaste

2011-10-18T08:54:00.000-07:00

At Gilleran and Van Fossen Cosmetic and General Dentistry, we came across a great article about creative uses for toothpaste. Here are fifteen ways you can use toothpaste-other than for your teeth, courtesy of DivineCaroline.com.

1. Relieve irritation from bug bites, sores, and blisters.

2. Soothe a stinging burn.

3. Decrease the size of a facial blemish.

4. Clean up your fingernails.

5. Keep hair in place.

6. Scrub away stinky smells.

7. Remove stains.

8. Spruce up dirty shoes.

9. Remove crayon stains on painted walls.

10. Make silver jewelry and other silver pieces sparkle.

11. Remove scratches on DVDs and CDs.

12. Tidy up the ivories before tickling them.

13. Deodorize baby bottles.

14. Remove the burned crust on irons.

15. Defog goggles.

For more on the 15 ways to use toothpaste we encourage you to visit the article, ask us during your next visit to our convenient Chicago office! Or, ask us on Facebook!

Foods that Naturally Whiten Teeth, from Drs. Gilleran & Van Fossen

2011-10-11T16:06:00.000-07:00

There are lots of foods that our team at Dr. Gilleran & Dr. Van Fossen's office want you to stay from, including coffee, tea, colas or red wine, which all stain teeth and cause some decay of the enamel. Apples and potatoes can cause discoloration, but they also tend to clean off the teeth. Just wash your mouth out after eating apples.

Great things to do for your teeth include:

• Strawberries can be made into a puree and smothered on the teeth, as strawberries have a natural enzyme that removes tooth stains.

• Orange peels can be used to remove tooth stains, just by rubbing the inside of a peel against your tooth surfaces.

• A little lemon juice and salt work very well to remove stains just wash your mouth out with this, or even rock salt and warm water will work at night to remove stains.

• Baking soda has long been known to work wonders on your smile. It may taste awful, but put some baking soda on your toothbrush, brush with it, and then wash your mouth out.

Drs. Gilleran & Van Fossen, supporting National Dental Hygiene Month!

2011-10-03T08:15:00.000-07:00

Ah, October has arrived. The leaves are beginning to fall, the days get shorter and all that Halloween candy is beginning to make its rounds. For our staff at Gilleran and Van Fossen Cosmetic and General Dentistry, October is known as National Dental Hygiene Month.

We join our friends at the American Dental Hygienists' Association in spreading the word that good dental habits are easy to develop and even easier to maintain.

This year's theme is “Healthy Habits are Easier than You Think,” which focuses on prevention. Drs. Gilleran and Van Fossen know everyone is busy; living a life on-the-go is difficult for most people, but our staff is here to tell you keeping a healthy mouth shouldn’t be.

Your teeth are an important part of your body, and keeping them clean helps keep your mouth and your body healthy. By taking care of your teeth, eating a balanced diet, and visiting our convenient Chicago Loop office on a regular basis, you can have healthy teeth and an attractive smile throughout your entire life.

We encourage you to check out the ADHA's National Dental Hygiene Month website, which provides pointers on keeping your mouth clean and healthy. Lastly, has it been six months since your last visit to Gilleran and Van Fossen DDS? If the answer is yes, we encourage you to give us a call at 312-368-8771 to set up an appointment.

We hope you all had a wonderful and relaxing weekend!

Join Drs. Gilleran & Van Fossen on Facebook!

2011-09-28T13:30:00.000-07:00

At the office of Drs. Gilleran & Van Fossen, we value the relationships we have developed with our patients in the Chicago Loop and greater Chicago. Even if you only see us for your appointment on a regular basis, did you know that you can now connect with us on Facebook?

We invite you to “like” us at Facebook.com/GilleranVanFossenDDS. We share office news, important announcements and updates on our Fan Page, so we encourage you to check us out! By Liking our page, you will receive updates from our office automatically in your news feed!

See you on Facebook and have a great rest of the week,

- Drs. Gilleran, Van Fossen and team

Manual vs. Electric Toothbrushes: What’s the Difference?

2011-09-22T08:39:00.000-07:00

Everybody is jumping on the electric toothbrush bandwagon in recent years, with many experts in the dental field claiming electric toothbrushes provide superior dental care. It’s true that electric toothbrushes are recommended for those who can’t do a good job brushing manually or who have arthritis or other conditions. But manual toothbrushes do have some advantages, according to an article we recently found including:

• Cost. While electric toothbrushes may be expensive for many people, manual toothbrushes are both inexpensive and accessible.

• Less pressure on your teeth & gums. While we can feel the amount of pressure we’re using as we grasp our manual toothbrush, we can’t feel the pressure nearly as well with an electric toothbrush. Placing too much pressure on our teeth can wear away at the tooth enamel, which causes pain, sensitivity, as well as an increased risk of tooth decay.

• Simple to pack. Manual toothbrushes are easy to carry around for those business or family trips. People are less likely to let their good dental care habits lapse on vacation with a toothbrush that they can easily bring along!

• Better for kids. Learning at a young age how to properly use a manual toothbrush helps children get a feel for how to properly take care of their oral hygiene.

Electric toothbrushes, on the other hand, are more effective in removing plaque and are considered a better alternative to maintaining gum health. Remember, whether you choose a manual or an electric toothbrush, Drs. Gilleran & Van Fossen and our team encourage you to choose one with soft bristles and be sure to change the bristles on the electric brush when they become worn down. We also encourage you to replace your toothbrush every three months, when the bristles are no longer straight and firm or after you recover from a cold.

Give us a call if you have any questions or ask us on Facebook! Happy brushing!

Don't throw your insurance benefits away!

2011-09-12T06:04:00.000-07:00

Drs. Gilleran and Van Fossen, as well as our entire team, would like to give those patients with flex spend, health savings, or insurance benefits a friendly end of the year reminder that it's about that time to schedule your dental visit(s) so you can optimize your benefits!

Now is the time to reserve you appointment with us. Space is limited and we get VERY busy around the holidays, so don’t wait to give us a call at 312-368-8771! Have a wonderful week!

September is National Gum Care Month!

2011-09-05T10:33:00.000-07:00

At Gilleran and Van Fossen DDS, we know that gingivitis - the early stage of periodontal disease - can be difficult to recognize. In fact, most people don't recognize the warning signs - bleeding and swollen gums - as a precursor to gum disease. This month, a national campaign is under way to raise awareness about gum health and periodontal disease, and we wanted to help do our part to spread the word!

Drs. Gilleran and Van Fossen will tell you early recognition and action are the most important steps to health gums, and ultimately a health body, too! Studies are published every year linking oral health, including the gums, to the health of other areas of the body, such as your heart. One of the most important steps to improving the care of your gums is recognizing the warning signs for gum disease.

Drs. Gilleran and Van Fossen know these can include:

• Gums that appear red or swollen
• Gums that feel tender
• Gums that bleed easily (during brushing or flossing)
• Gums that recede or pull away from the teeth
• Persistent halitosis, or bad breath
• Loose teeth
• Any change in the way teeth come together in the biting position

If you happen to notice any of these signs, please schedule an appointment at our convenient Chicago Loop office by calling 312-368-8771 as soon as possible. Our doctors can take proactive steps to prevent gingivitis and gum disease, while showing you how to improve gum care in your daily oral hygiene habits.

Ask Drs. Gilleran & Van Fossen: What’s the deal with coffee and tea?

2011-08-29T08:16:00.000-07:00

At the office of Drs. Gilleran & Van Fossen we know most folks enjoy a hot-brewed coffee or tea in the morning, followed by a cola (or more coffee) in the afternoon. But what many don’t know is that both coffee and tea are especially tough on your teeth, because tannic acid (the substance that makes the dark color) etches into the pits and grooves of tooth enamel, and can stain your pearly whites brown.

So, if you can’t give up that morning cup o’joe, what can you do? Dr. Gilleran and Dr. Van Fossen suggest rinsing with a glass of water after every cup. If you enjoy iced coffee or tea, drink your beverage with a straw so that tannins don’t make contact with your front upper and lower teeth. Even if you’re not a big coffee drinker, we encourage you to swish and swallow some water at the end of each meal. Water, after all, helps neutralize acids left in your mouth after eating and also reduces cavity-causing bacteria.

We also invite you to visit our convenient office for whitening options. We can help bleach your teeth with proven and professional products. To learn more about whitening options at our Chicago Loop office, please visit our website, ask us on Facebook or give us a call!

Dental fun facts, from Drs. Gilleran & Van Fossen

2011-08-23T08:28:00.000-07:00

Everyone loves fun facts and dental tips. Fun, fun, fun! Our staff at the office of Drs. Gilleran & Van Fossen came across these dental fun facts recently and thought you might enjoy!

• The second most common disease in the United States is cavities. The first is the common cold.
• There are almost 9,000 accidental pockings and piercings with toothpicks per year.
• X-rays may be an effective tool in preventing strokes.
• A child will have 20 baby teeth by the time he or she is 2 years old. Through childhood, kids gradually lose baby teeth and grow 32 permanent teeth, including wisdom teeth.
• According to consumer reports, dentists are among the 5 most trusted professionals in the United States.
• Approximately $2 billion a year is spent on dental products like toothpastes, mouthwashes and dental floss.
• The average American spends about 38 days brushing teeth over his or her lifetime.
• Kids in North America spend half a billion dollars per year on chewing gum.
• Approximately 94 percent of Americans say they brush nightly while only 81 percent say they brush first thing in the morning.
• Grand Rapids, MI was the first American city to fluoridate its water.
• Earliest record of a toothbrush was found in Chinese literature about 1600 AD
• The natural bristles of early toothbrushes were taken from the necks and shoulders of swine, especially pigs living in colder climates like Siberia and China.

Lastly, has it been at least six months since your last checkup? If the answer is yes, we encourage you to give us a call!

Love your smile? Tell Chicago all about it!

2011-08-16T17:48:00.000-07:00

If you've ever visited our convenient office located in Chicago's Loop, you know we offer professional individualized dental care to make your smile beautiful and healthy. Dr. Gilleran and Dr. Van Fossen, along with our personable staff, are committed to providing a clean and comfortable atmosphere for up-to-date preventive, restorative and cosmetic dental care.

Whether you’ve just come in once for a cleaning or your family has been visiting us for years, we’d love to hear your feedback. You can write a review on our Google Places page or on our Yelp listing.

We look forward to reading your feedback, and hope you're having a GREAT summer!

When you need immediate dental care, we’re here for you.

2011-08-09T17:10:00.000-07:00

At the office of Drs. Gilleran & Van Fossen, we know dental emergencies are never convenient or timely. If you are a patient of record, we are committed to your dental health and are more than willing to see you.

We are here to help you, any time, any day, and when your dental health is at risk, we’ll do everything we can to make sure that you’re treated as soon as possible at our Chicago Loop dental office. While dental emergencies are rare, we know they can happen at any moment, and it’s important to know how to take care of your teeth no matter what.

Common dental emergencies include:

• A bitten lip or tongue
• Broken or cracked tooth/teeth
• Broken jaw
• Permanent tooth that has been knocked out
• Object caught between teeth
• Severe toothache

If you have a dental emergency after regular office hours, please give us a call. If you are calling us after hours, please follow the emergency prompts to contact Drs. Gilleran or Van Fossen.

We hope you’re all enjoying your summer.

Ask Drs. Gilleran & Van Fossen: What, exactly, are cavities?

2011-08-02T14:28:00.000-07:00

We know one word nobody wants to hear when they visit our Chicago Loop office is Cavity! That’s right, the dreaded cavity; but what exactly are cavities and how do they happen? A cavity is a hole that develops in a tooth when the tooth begins to decay. It’s important to get a cavity filled as soon as it’s detected so that it does not grow bigger.

So, what causes a cavity? A cavity is caused by plaque, a sticky substance that forms on the tooth as a result of germ and bacteria build-up. Plaque is acidic and as it clings to your teeth the acids eat away the outside of the tooth (also called the enamel) and a hole is formed.

Yes, cavities can be repaired by Drs. Gilleran and Van Fossen, but here are a few simple steps you can take to prevent cavities at home:

• Brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste at least twice daily
• Gently brush your gums to keep them healthy (when choosing a toothbrush it is recommended to use soft bristles)
• Floss your teeth at least once a day to remove plaque and food that may be caught between the teeth where your toothbrush can’t reach
• Limit the amount of soda and sugary treats you eat/drink
• Be sure to visit our office every six months – or as recommended – for a teeth cleaning and check-up

Your oral health and overall health

2011-07-26T13:50:00.000-07:00

Don’t put off your next visit to see Drs. Gilleran or Van Fossen any longer! As we’ve shared in previous blog posts, oral health issues have been increasingly linked to other health concerns, such as heart disease. Cardiovascular disease remains American's number one killer, claiming more lives than the rest of major causes of death, according to the American Heart Association. Believe it or not, an estimated 80 percent of American adults currently have some form of gum disease. Studies have shown a correlation between gum disease and heart disease, underscoring the importance of good oral health care.

Studies are also beginning to suggest that patients, especially those with periodontal disease, are believed to have an elevated risk of heart attack and stroke. Since most patients are not regularly visiting a heart specialist, their regular visits to Gilleran and Van Fossen DDS can help detect early warning signs of heart issues, prevent gum disease or at least catch it in its early stages. We’d also like you to know your numbers: blood pressure (less than 120/80), cholesterol (less than 200) and BMI (less than 25).

Additionally, if it’s been more than six months since your last visit to our convenient Chicago Loop office, please give us a call! Summer makes for a great time to check in with us!

Tell us about your summer!

2011-07-18T15:18:00.000-07:00

It's summertime here at Gilleran & Van Fossen, and that means a full season of adventures, vacations and great memories that last a lifetime. Whether you're headed to a family barbecue, an exotic destination, a camping trip, a Cubs game, or just having fun in the city, we want to hear about it! Share your plans and experiences on our Facebook page as the summer rolls along, and be sure to post your vacation photos on our wall!

Happy (and safe) travels, from all of us at Gilleran & Van Fossen DDS

Do we have your current contact info?

2011-07-12T21:54:00.000-07:00

We hope you’re having a great week and a great summer so far! If you are planning on traveling with family this summer or think you might not be able to make it to your scheduled appointment with Dr. Gilleran and Dr. Van Fossen, please let us know ahead of time so that we may be able to accommodate you, as well as schedule another patient during that time.

Also, we ask that you give us a call and and let us know if you have any new phone numbers or if your contact information has changed! Please call us with any updates to phone numbers and addresses, so we may be able to reach you. Thank you! Enjoy the rest of your week!

Happy Fourth!

2011-07-04T09:54:00.001-07:00

America turns 235 years old today! It’s a day to commemorate the signing of the Declaration of Independence and also a time for every American to pay homage to our soldiers - past and present - who have placed themselves in harm’s way so that we may continue to enjoy our freedom.

Our team at Gilleran and Van Fossen DDS would like to know: what are your plans for the 4th of July? Are you out in the sun? Have you stocked up on fireworks? Are you going to grill up your favorite summer foods? If you have a 4th of July tradition, we would love to hear all about it.

We hope you have a fun and safe holiday! Feel free to upload your 4th of July photos to our Facebook page and let us know how your Independence Day turned out this year.

Are regular checkups really that important? You bet.

2011-06-27T21:34:00.000-07:00

Are you remembering to brush your teeth twice a day, especially after meals? If yes, that’s wonderful. But, don’t forget that it’s also important to visit our office conveniently located in Chicago's Loop every six months in addition to brushing your teeth a couple times a day and flossing. Regular dental checkups are important for maintaining good oral health. Drs. Gilleran and Van Fossen can:

• Check for problems that might not be seen or felt
• Detect cavities and early signs of decay
• Treat oral health problems early
• Show you how to properly brush and floss your teeth

During an oral exam we will check the health of your mouth, teeth, gums, cheeks and tongue. Checkups will also include a thorough teeth cleaning and polishing. If you have not visited our office during the past six months, it’s time to schedule an appointment by calling 312-368-8771! Summer is a great time for a quick visit!

Ask Drs. Gilleran & Van Fossen: How do I avoid bad breath?

2011-06-20T22:12:00.000-07:00

At the office of Drs. Gilleran and Van Fossen, we know bad breath can be a real downer, especially when you're out on a date or at an important social function! However, we want you to know bad breath can be prevented!

Bad breath, or as Drs. Gilleran & Van Fossen call it “halitosis,” is caused by odor-producing bacteria that grows in your mouth. This bacteria gathers on bits of food in your mouth and between your teeth and release sulfur compounds making your breath smell.

Here are three ways you can prevent bad breath:

1. Brush your tongue.

2. Keep your mouth hydrated.

3. Freshen your mouth.

Also, here are some common myths about halitosis:

Myth #1: Mouthwash will make my breath smell better

Mouthwash will make your breath smell better, but it is only a temporary fix. If you use mouthwash, just know that you will still need to brush and floss when you get the chance as mouthwash alone will not kill all of the bacteria producing germs in your mouth. When choosing a mouthwash, pick an antiseptic with plaque-reducing compounds. Also make sure any dental products you choose comes with the American Dental Association’s (ADA) seal of approval!

Myth #2: I brush my teeth; I will never have bad breath

Brushing your teeth will save you from having breath, but the truth is most people only brush their teeth for about 30-45 seconds! You need to brush your teeth for at least 2 minutes, twice a day to give your teeth a thorough cleansing. It’s also important to brush your tongue, which is where a majority of odor causing bacteria like to hang out. Lastly, flossing to remove food and plaque between the teeth will also help reduce your chances of having bad breath!

Myth #3: If I don’t smell it, then my breath is fresh

This is a false assumption in every sense of the word! The truth is that the breath you breathe out is not the same breath coming out when you talk to someone. When you breathe you are not using your throat as you do when you are talking; and when you talk more breath moves over the back of your mouth where bacteria is causing bad breath.

For more information on halitosis, we encourage you to give us a call at 312-368-8771!

What’s on your reading list this summer?

2011-06-13T09:41:00.000-07:00

With summer 2011 almost here, our staff at Gilleran and Van Fossen DDS want to remind all our patients about the importance of reading. We know it’s easy to keep putting off reading this time of year, but reading during the summer is actually a vital step in brain development. And, it can help you ward off that dreaded “summer slide.”

This week, we thought we’d ask: What's on YOUR summer reading list? What are some of your all-time favorites?

Out of ideas for summer reads? Then check out these summer reading ideas that we came across this week, courtesy of Barnes & Noble.

Happy reading, and be sure to share your summer picks with us on our Facebook page! We hope you have an outstanding summer!!

Smile! June marks National Smile Month!

2011-06-05T22:27:00.001-07:00

Our friends at the American Dental Association discovered that a person's smile was important than their eyes, hair and body as the most important physical feature. After all, there's a big reason why Americans spend as much as they do each year on general and cosmetic dentistry each year: they want to look (and feel) great.

That brings us to June, also known as National Smile Month. It's a great time for Drs. Gilleran and Van Fossen to remind all of our patients to practice good oral hygiene between your visits to our office.

Here are a few simple steps you can take to improve your oral health so that you may celebrate National Smile Month for many, many years:

* Brush at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
* Floss everyday to clean between your teeth.
* Reduce your intake of sugary foods and drinks.
* Visit Drs. Gilleran or Van Fossen regularly (usually every six months).

If you have questions about any of these tips, we encourage you to give us a call at 312-368-8771. We hope you have a great rest of the week! Get out there and share your smiles with Chicago!

Is your child afraid of the dentist?

2011-05-31T10:05:00.001-07:00

We hope you had a wonderful Memorial Day weekend! Both Dr. Patricia Gilleran and Dr. Amy Van Fossen know some children fear going to the dentist, and this morning, we found a helpful article on how to help your child overcome fears of visiting our office, courtesy of our friends at WebMD.

It is our goal to make your child’s dental experience a positive one. Whether it’s a simple checkup or restorative care, Drs. Gilleran and Van Fossen & our experienced team provide comprehensive gentle dental care in a comfortable and welcoming environment. In fact, most of our patients look forward to their next visit! Schedule an appointment at our convenient office in Chicago's Loop by calling 312-368-8771, and we’ll see you soon!

Are you wearing your mouth guard this spring?

2011-05-22T19:58:00.000-07:00

Spring is upon us, and for Drs. Gilleran and Van Fossen, that only means one thing: it’s once again time to remind our dear patients to protect their faces and pearly whites. After all, children, high-school athletes and adults will have more than 5,000,000 teeth knocked out in sporting events this year. Here are five tips from Drs. Gilleran and Van Fossen to save face while having fun this spring. We hope you remember them when you’re out on the ball field:

1. Wear mouth guards for contact sports such as baseball, softball, soccer and lacrosse.
2. Wear a helmet
3. Wear protective eyewear
4. Wear a face shield to avoid scratched or bruised skin
5. Be alert, even as a spectator

We hope that helps. Protective gear is vital for anyone engaging in tooth or mouth-threatening activities. If you have any further questions about any of these tips, please contact Gilleran and Van Fossen Cosmetic Dentistry by calling 312-368-8771. Stay safe!

Access to your account any day, any time!

2011-05-14T08:46:00.000-07:00

May is National Physical Fitness and Sports Month!

2011-05-05T20:48:00.001-07:00

The month of May is National Physical Fitness and Sports Month, and our team at Gilleran and Van Fossen Cosmetic and General Dentistry will always tell you living an active lifestyle can and does improve physical and mental health, productivity and overall well-being. The best part? It doesn’t have to take a lot of time or effort.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has provided these public health guidelines for your reference. The guidelines call for people to exercise one hour every day of moderate intensity physical activity (such as playing sports or brisk walking) or one hour and 15 minutes of vigorous activity (jogging, jumping rope or dancing).

At our convenient office in Chicago's Loop, we always encourage our patients to exercise or participate in sports. However, we want to remind you to always wear a mouth guard or other forms of mouth or facial protection when doing so. To learn more about how often you should exercise, we recommend you check out these helpful tips, courtesy of our friends at the American Heart Association.

Finally, we hope you all have a wonderful Mother’s Day weekend!

Straight talk with Drs. Gilleran & Van Fossen

2011-04-29T09:04:00.000-07:00

We've had patients ask us why Drs. Gilleran and Van Fossen work so hard to give our patients straight teeth using Invisalign. Of course it’s nice to have a smile full of evenly aligned teeth, but did you know that straightening your teeth can keep them healthier? Straight teeth lead to better oral hygiene, increasing your chances of keeping your own natural teeth for a lifetime.

Straight teeth, Drs. Gilleran & Van Fossen will tell you, are less prone to decay, because they collect less plaque—the sticky colorless substance that forms on our teeth and leads to tooth decay; and they are easier to keep clean!

If you’re wondering whether your teeth might cause problems because they are out of alignment, give us a call to set up a consultation for Invisalign. The team at Gilleran and Van Fossen can help you decide whether or not you will benefit from Invisalign treatment at our modern office conveniently located in Chicago's Loop.

Happy Friday!

What do we offer at Gilleran & Van Fossen DDS?

2011-04-11T09:28:00.000-07:00

At Gilleran and Van Fossen Cosmetic Dentistry, treatment is performed in the most relaxing environment imaginable. To help you relax during your visit, just lie back and enjoy a warm paraffin wax hand treatment, which is very soothing to cold, dry hands. We also offer hot towels.

Drs. Gilleran and Van Fossen also embrace technology, and that includes offering our patients OraVerse®, a relatively new product that shortens the duration from the effects of numbing. In addition, we use digital X-rays, which minimize radiation exposure and offer the best diagnostic quality available. Drs. Gilleran and Van Fossen also use intra-oral cameras during treatment, which allow patients and insurance companies a close-up view of your pearly whites.

Other technology we proudly use includes an Amalgam separator - installed at our office in 2010 – that removes old silver/amalgam from our water waste for recycling. Lastly, we provide our patients with cholesterol kits, which are available for all our patients to test their own cholesterol levels.

If you have any questions about the dental treatments we offer, or to learn more, please give us a call. We'd love to hear from you.

To keep up with goings-on at Gilleran and Van Fossen Cosmetic Dentistry, please visit our Facebook fan page and become a fan!

Drs. Gilleran and Van Fossen support Oral Cancer Awareness Month

2011-04-04T10:14:00.000-07:00

Visiting Gilleran and Van Fossen Cosmetic and General Dentistry on a regular basis will not only help keep your teeth and mouth healthy, but will also help keep the rest of your body healthy as well. The fact is, every hour of every day in the U.S., someone dies of oral cancer, which is the sixth-most common diagnosed form of the disease. The five-year survival rate is only 50 percent, and oral cancer is one of the few cancers whose survival rate has not improved. Since April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month, we would like to take this opportunity to remind all of our patients about the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene.

As your dentists, Drs. Gilleran and Van Fossen are specialists who work to diagnose, treat, and prevent oral health problems. Please let us now if you have any questions about your oral health during your next appointment at our convenient office located in Chicago's Loop. Take care of your teeth, and smile bright!

Why Invisalign? From Dr. Van Fossen

2011-03-27T13:58:00.000-07:00

Are you interested in straightening your teeth, but aren't interested in doing so through conventional orthodontic treatment? Dr. Amy Van Fossen and our team would like to recommend Invisalign!

Invisalign aligners are customized, clear aligners used to straighten teeth quicker and with fewer office visits than traditional braces.

Here are a couple of questions you may have:

Why would I want Invisalign®?
Not only are the aligners invisible, they are removable, so you can eat and drink what you want while in treatment, plus brushing and flossing are no problem. They are also comfortable, with no metal to cause mouth abrasions during treatment. And no metal and wires usually means you spend less time in your doctor's office getting adjustments. Invisalign also allows you to view your own virtual treatment plan when you start, so you can see how your straight teeth will look when your treatment is complete.

How does Invisalign® work?
You wear each set of aligners for about 2 weeks, removing them only to eat, drink, brush, and floss. As you replace each aligner with the next in the series, your teeth will move – little by little, week by week – until they have straightened to the final position that has been prescribed. You'll visit our office about once every 6 weeks to ensure that your treatment is progressing as planned. Total treatment time averages 9-15 months and the average number of aligners worn during treatment is between 18 and 30, but both will vary from case to case.

Dr. Van Fossen is our Certified Invisalign® Provider. If you are considering Invisalign, have questions, or would like to have a complete consultation to determine if Invisalign is right for you, please call the office at 312-368-8771 for an appointment.

How important is your smile? From Drs. Gilleran & Van Fossen

2011-03-21T08:39:00.000-07:00

At the office of Drs. Gilleran and Van Fossen, we offer professional individualized dental care to make your smile beautiful and healthy. Dr. Gilleran and Dr. Van Fossen, along with their personable staff,

And speaking of smiling, in a new poll conducted by Glamour Magazine, people were asked, “If you had to pick between having perfect teeth, eyesight or hair, which would you choose?

Well, 44 percent of folks out there are choosing teeth! In addition, the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, or AACD, conducted a study and found that 99.7 percent of those polled believed a smile is an important social asset. Respondents said straightness, whiteness, cleanliness, as well as the sincerity and sparkle of a person’s smile were all important factors not only socially, but career-wise as well.

Call us at 312/368-8771 or email office@drgilleran.com to schedule your appointment at our convenient office in Chicago’s Loop!

How to Freshen Bad Breath, from Drs. Gilleran & Van Fossen

2011-03-11T09:51:00.000-08:00

Drs. Gilleran & Van Fossen, your Chicago Loop dentists, recognize that many of our patients are concerned about bad breath, or halitosis. While some cases of bad breath are persistent (chronic bad breath), generally bad breath is transient, and can be prevented.

We recently came across this helpful video about bad breath and thought it was worth sharing with our patients. The video explains what might cause bad breath and some ways that it can be avoided. In most instances, bad breath can be prevented by practicing common oral hygiene techniques that you have probably heard us emphasize during a visit to Gilleran and Van Fossen Dentistry, such as brushing and flossing daily. We encourage you to watch this video for additional tips on how to keep bad breath at bay.

Call us at 312/368-8771 or email office@drgilleran.com to schedule your appointment! Or, if you have any questions, ask us on Facebook!

March is National Nutrition Month!

2011-03-04T10:32:00.000-08:00

March is upon us, and that can only mean one thing: it’s National Nutrition Month. Every March, Drs. Gilleran and Van Fossen, as well as thousands of dentists and hygienists celebrate this occasion, and 2011 is no different.

This March, our professional team at Gilleran and Van Fossen Cosmetic Dentistry want you to think diabetes, obesity and periodontal disease, and how healthful eating and physical activity may improve periodontal health. Drs. Gilleran and Van Fossen know small changes really can make a big difference, and the American Dietetic Association (ADA) has some advice on ways to start improving your diet this March:

• Focus on fruits and veggies: Add a serving each day to one meal and increase it every few weeks. Adding more of these foods into your diet is important whether you buy frozen, fresh or organic.

• Think fresh, think local: From Chicago's farmer’s markets to community-supported agriculture, you have many options to find new, fresh foods here in the Windy City.

• It’s tempting, but…: If you have a sweet tooth, have fruit and yogurt for dessert. If you crave a snack in the afternoon, enjoy some trail mix or nuts.

• Make every calorie count: When you are choosing between options, focus instead on the one with more of the vitamins and nutrients that you need. Sometimes, foods with fewer calories aren’t always the healthiest options.

• Expand your horizons: Try a fish you’ve never eaten before or find a new vegetable recipe. By testing yourself, you might find new healthy favorites to add to your regular grocery list.

If you have additional questions about periodontal disease or keeping yourself and your mouth healthy, please give us a call!

What should you expect at our office?

2011-02-23T16:18:00.000-08:00

Your first visit to Gilleran and Van Fossen Cosmetic and General Dentistry most commonly includes a cleaning, initial exam and consultation. This appointment takes approximately two hours. When you share your medical history with us, please be sure to provide complete, up-to-date information on all aspects of your health. Inform us if you have experienced recent hospitalizations or surgery, or if you have recently been ill. Plan to provide the name of your physician as well as the name, dosage and frequency of any medications you are taking – including all prescription and/or over-the-counter products. This information will help our office select the most safe and effective method of treatment for you.

Subsequent to your initial visit, Drs. Gilleran, Van Fossen and team strongly encourage regular checkups for all our patients. Regular checkups include a thorough cleaning and an oral exam. During the oral exam, we will check the health of your mouth, teeth, gums, cheeks and tongue. At each visit to our convenient office in Chicago's Loop we will also check old fillings and restorations to ensure constant pressure from chewing, grinding or clenching has not caused them to wear away, chip or crack. Although in some cases, we may recommend more frequent visits, most patients find that it is valuable to have a checkup at least every six months.

Subtle changes in your smile can make a big difference in the way you look and feel about yourself. Have you visited our office in the past 6 months? If not, we invite you to schedule an appointment!

Connect with us on Facebook!

2011-02-17T17:23:00.000-08:00

February also marks American Heart Month at Gilleran and Van Fossen DDS!

2011-02-09T09:30:00.000-08:00

You may remember our post from last week, when Drs. Gilleran & Van Fossen discussed February being National Dental Health Month. But did you know February also marks American Heart Month?

It’s a great time to take notice of the health of your heart, say Drs. Gilleran and Van Fossen. Cardiovascular disease remains American's number one killer, according to the American Heart Association. Studies have shown a correlation between gum disease and heart disease, underscoring the importance of good oral health care.

Visiting our office on a regular basis can help prevent gum disease or at least catch it in its early stages. And because people with dental insurance are more likely to visit their dentist when they should, a healthy mouth begins with a visit to Gilleran and Van Fossen Cosmetic Dentistry. In observance of Heart Month, Drs. Van Fossen and Gilleran say it’s also important to know your numbers: blood pressure (less than 120/80), cholesterol (less than 200) and BMI (less than 25). If you have any questions about heart health, or about your treatment at Gilleran and Van Fossen Cosmetic Dentistry, please give us a call today.

February is National Dental Health Month!

2011-02-01T08:43:00.000-08:00

Did you know February is National Dental Health Month? It's a great time of the year to renew those resolutions about continuing to practice great dental hygiene. Today, we thought we'd discuss the importance of preventative oral care. While most people are familiar with traditional heart-saving practices such as eating healthy and exercising regularly, lesser-known are the benefits that great oral hygiene provides to one’s cardiovascular health.

Here are a few tips to help you continue those New Year's resolutions:

*Remember that poor oral hygiene is linked to serious common diseases such as cardiovascular disease, bacterial pneumonia and osteoporosis. Teeth are the only non-shedding surface in your body, which suggests teeth have the highest bacterial levels in the entire body.

*Brush and floss every day to remove the plaque that can lead to cavities. Flossing daily removes food debris that your toothbrush cannot reach.

*Replace your toothbrush on a regular basis. You should replace your toothbrush every three to four months or after a cold or illness to prevent re-infection. Remember to use a soft toothbrush so you won’t wear off the enamel of your teeth.

*Visit our Chicago Loop office regularly. The American Dental Association recommends you visit Drs. Gilleran and Van Fossen every six months for regular checkups and cleanings. Fluoride treatments twice a year will help prevent tooth decay.

Each February, Drs. Gilleran and Van Fossen focus on the preventive oral care of our patients. Have you visited our office the past six months? If not, it’s time to give us a call and schedule an appointment!

Getting married soon? Smile bright with Gilleran & Van Fossen DDS!

2011-01-24T14:57:00.000-08:00

It’s winter here in Chicago, and it’s cold. But, believe it or not, there is a growing trend of brides choosing to tie the knot in the winter wonderland. If you are gearing up for a wedding this winter, consider matching that white dress to a perfectly white smile!

At Gilleran & Van Fossen DDS, we offer in-office tooth whitening for the bride, the groom, or the entire wedding party! You get the girls together to get their nails done, and now you can get them together to get their teeth done!

In-office whitening is the quickest, most effective way to achieve whiter teeth. Because we are dental professionals, we have the expertise to use higher percentages of whitening agents than the at-home systems allow. So you can get a brighter white, usually in just one visit! In fact, we proudly offer ZOOM!® Smile Whitening, which brightens and whitens your teeth in just 45 minutes.

Give us a ring at our convenient office in Chicago's Loop and let us add some extra sparkle to your “I do”!

Tell us your story! What made you choose Gilleran & Van Fossen DDS?

2011-01-16T11:27:00.000-08:00

Are those rumors about swallowing bubble gum true?

2011-01-11T11:44:00.000-08:00

Good question. At Gilleran and Van Fossen Dentistry, we know the rumors going around that once you swallow a piece of chewing gum it will take up residency in your stomach for at least seven years! We really hate to take all the fun out of the mystery, but the truth is that chewing gum, when swallowed, will enter the stomach and move through the digestive system just like any other piece of food and leave the body long before seven years! So, if you ever have accidentally swallowed a piece of gum, there is no need to worry!

This being said, gum does not have any dietary benefits, so while it’s not harmful to swallow, you still want to avoid swallowing it. If you are a gum-chewer, make sure you chew sugarless gum, because gum with sugar can lead to cavities. Sugarless gum still has the same amount of flavor, but with less cavity causing ingredients. You see, when the bacterium in your mouth breaks down sugar, what’s left behind is acid. This acid eats away at the enamel coating of your teeth, causing holes that we call cavities. Cavities can lead to other long term mouth problems if they are not treated in time, so it is best to try and avoid overexposing your teeth to too many harmful substances!

Give us a call at our convenient Chicago Loop office if you have any questions!

Happy (sugar-free) gum chewing!

The importance of flossing, from Drs. Gilleran & Van Fossen

2011-01-03T19:34:00.000-08:00

At the office of Drs. Gilleran & Van Fossen, we hope you're not a part of the 51 percent of Americans who don’t floss daily. Or worse, we hope you're not part of the 10 percent who never floss at all. Dr. Gilleran and our staff will always tell you that proper flossing is just as important for your dental health as brushing regularly. Flossing cleans food and plaque that build up between teeth and below the gumline, key areas that brushing alone simply cannot reach.

Flossing 3-to-5 minutes everyday is recommended, but even 60 seconds of flossing has a great benefit over not flossing at all. Also, make sure to always brush your teeth after you floss, and to rinse with water or mouthwash. When you begin flossing you may experience gum pain or bleeding, but with daily flossing and brushing this should stop within a week or so.

On a side note, has it been at least six months since your last checkup at our Chicago Loop office? If the answer is yes, we encourage you to schedule an appointment by calling (312) 368-8771.

Happy New Year!

What's your New Year's resolution?

2010-12-27T11:07:00.001-08:00

Let’s face it, when was the last time you managed to keep a New Year’s resolution? We believe the key to sticking to a goal is picking one that is both reasonable and attainable. If you haven’t yet picked a New Year’s resolution, consider setting one that will improve your oral health!

For example, resolve to brush twice and floss once a day. Good oral hygiene only takes a couple of minutes a day, and can make a big difference in your oral health, as well as your overall health, too! For more oral health-themed resolutions for you and your family, check out this article.

We would love to see what you come up with! Share with us by commenting on this post or on our Facebook page. Whatever your New Year’s Resolution, Drs. Gilleran & Van Fossen, as well as our entire team, wish you all the very best for 2011!

How do you know if you have periodontal disease?

2010-12-17T09:25:00.000-08:00

Drs. Gilleran & Van Fossen and our staff will tell you one of the most important steps to improving the care of your gums is recognizing the warning signs for periodontal disease, also known as gum disease.

These can include:

• Gums that appear red or swollen
• Gums that feel tender
• Gums that bleed easily (during brushing or flossing)
• Gums that recede or pull away from the teeth
• Persistent halitosis, or bad breath
• Loose teeth
• Any change in the way teeth come together in the biting position

Our friends at the American Academy of Periodontology created a helpful self-assessment test that can help you determine what your risk is at home. Early detection is critical to avoiding serious and costly dental problems.

Of course, the best way to know for sure what the health of your teeth and gums is would be a visit to our office located in the Chicago Loop.

What are happy patients saying about our office?

2010-12-10T08:45:00.000-08:00

Dr. Gilleran and Dr. Van Fossen, serving Chicago's Loop and surrounding areas, have been receiving some great patient reviews lately! Check out what our current patients are saying about our office! If you'd like to leave a short review of our office online, head to our Google Places page or Yelp page! Enjoy your weekend everyone!

"Dr. Amy is extremely kind, gentle, organized and talks to you in a way you can understand. She does not "dumb it down". You walk out feeling really cared for." ~ Cynthia Z.

"I learned about Dr. Gilleran from a co-worker. Her office typically has lunch time appointments available, which is really great with my schedule. All of the staff including Dr. Gilleran are very personable and helpful. I love that they have headphone/cd players if you want to pick out your own music to listen to while they do a cleaning. Now I've taken to bringing my iPod for my appointments. Dr. Gilleran fitted me for a crown and made a pretty icky situation fairly comfortable." ~ Natalie B.

"I've been to quite a few dentists in my lifetime, and Dr. Van Fossen is the best. Great work, very knowledgeable, great personality and amazing dental assistants & hygienists. I'll never go to another dentist." ~ Heidi H.

"I have been seeing Dr. Gilleran since 1994. She considers dentistry a form of artistry. She and her partner Dr. Van Fossen stay on top of all the latest technology. With all the cosmetic dentistry rage, they offer anything you might need or want, but allow you to ask the questions or seek advice. One noteworthy aspect of their treatment is that I always feel well cared for in their office. It is a happy and comfortable office environment with an attentive staff and I NEVER wait more than just a few minutes to be seen. Even if you don't work downtown, they are easy to get to and just off the Red Line. Above every chair there are curious magnets on the light fixtures, mobiles hanging from the ceiling, and artwork created by the dentist herself. The dentists are both just really cool people. The kind you'd like to get to know better." ~ Jame S.

Access your account—any day, any time!

2010-12-03T11:05:00.000-08:00

At the office of Dr. Gilleran and Dr. Van Fossen, we embrace new technology, whether it is through the innovative dental treatments that we offer, our high-tech web site and social networks, or our modern office conveniently located in Chicago's Loop.

Did you know that patients at our office have access to their account 24 hours a day, seven days a week—all through our website? You can look up your appointments and all of your account details at your convenience, from the comfort of your own home, which is especially helpful during the holidays! And, because we know folks sometimes forget, you can even receive appointment reminders through email or text messages!

You, too, can sign up for this convenient service on our website by clicking on the "Patient Login" button on our homepage. Please give us a call if you have any questions about getting started or asking us on Facebook!

A season of thanks

2010-11-22T15:15:00.000-08:00

Do we have your current contact info?

2010-11-17T16:02:00.000-08:00

We hope you’re having a great week so far! There is nasty weather ahead this fall and winter in Chicago and across the entire Midwest region.

Please help Drs. Gilleran & Van Fossen and team get prepared by calling us and letting us know if you have any new phone numbers or if your contact information has changed!

At times of power outages and inclement weather, we need to be able to get a hold of you. Please call us at 312-368-8771 with any updates to phone numbers and addresses, so we may be able to reach you. Thank you and Happy Holidays from our entire staff!

Happy Veteran's Day from Drs. Gilleran & Van Fossen and team

2010-11-11T10:51:00.000-08:00

Happy Veteran's Day! We would like to take this opportunity to thank all the veterans and those currently on active duty who have put their lives on the line for the freedoms we all enjoy.

In celebration of Veteran’s Day, Drs. Gilleran and Van Fossen, as well as our entire team at Chicago Loop's Gilleran and Van Fossen DDS would like to share a few fun facts about our flag, this national holiday, and our country’s history!

-Veteran's Day, a day that was originally called Armistice Day, is a time to thank and honor the men and women who have served in our military.

- President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed the official legislation for Veteran's Day on June 1, 1954, changing the name of the holiday from Armistice Day to Veteran's Day

-There are 23.2 million veterans in the U.S.

-The flag was first approved by Congress on June 14, 1777

-Each of the flag’s colors signify different American values - red is for valor and zeal, white is for hope, purity, and cleanliness of life, and blue is for heaven, loyalty, sincerity, justice, and truth

-Research by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) helped develop the CAT Scan, the cardiac pacemaker, and the “Seattle Foot” to give those hurt the ability to run and jump

-When the flag is displayed next to another flag against a wall, the U.S. flag should be on its own right (on the left side when facing the wall).

-Veteran's Day is often confused with Memorial Day. Memorial Day is a time for remembering and honoring the men and women who died while serving our country, or as a result of injuries that incurred in battle. Veteran's Day honors and gives thanks to all veterans who served in our military.

-There are five states with over 1 million veterans in their population – California, Florida, Texas, New York and Pennsylvania.

Thanks again! We are so thankful for all who have and are currently serving in the U.S. and overseas.

At Gilleran and Van Fossen DDS, Zoom® your way to a brighter smile!

2010-11-05T10:39:00.000-07:00

At Gilleran and Van Fossen Cosmetic and General Dentistry, a whiter smile is one just one visit away! ZOOM!® Smile Whitening brightens and whitens your teeth in just 45 minutes. (With the holidays right around the corner, how convenient is that!).

While Zoom!® Smile Whitening is a great way to enhance the appearance of your smile, it's not always for everyone. Those with deep, dark stains that remain unaffected by whitening treatments and patients with regular tooth sensitivity may not be good candidates. Find out more about Zoom!® Smile Whitening on our website; and when you are ready to have a whiter, brighter smile please give us a call at our convenient Chicago Loop office for an evaluation! Have a safe and relaxing weekend!

Drs. Gilleran & Van Fossen with the 411 on Halloween treats

2010-10-29T13:00:00.000-07:00

For our patients concerned about going overboard on candies this weekend, sugar and other sweets, this post is just for you!

Dr. Gilleran and Dr. Van Fossen, as well as our entire staff will tell you all those sweet, sour and sticky candies may taste great, but these treats are known to damage teeth! Did you know sour candies can be acidic to your teeth, and actually wear down the enamel that protects them? Candies like Starburst and Skittles are the worst for your teeth since these candies have a low pH value, which is known to ruin enamel.

With Halloween just two days away, we encourage you to try and limit the amount of these candies that you eat, and when you do eat them, either rinse your mouth with water afterward or drink a glass of milk or eat a slice of cheese. If you have any questions over the weekend, ask us on Facebook!

We hope everyone has a fun, safe and scary Halloween!

Patient question: What's Invisalign, and is it right for me? [Video]

2010-10-23T21:00:00.000-07:00

We've blogged about Invisalign in earlier posts, but this time around we thought we'd share a helpful video for those who are intrigued by the idea of straightening their teeth without using traditional metal braces. The Invisalign system at Gilleran and Van Fossen Cosmetic and General Dentistry is a state-of-the-art system of clear, removable aligners that we proudly offer to adults and teens at our convenient Chicago Loop office. We have plenty of resources on our website to check out about Invisalign, or give us call at 312-368-8771 to schedule an appointment and learn if this revolutionary new treatment option is right for you!

Not only are the aligners you wear invisible, they are also easily removable, so you can eat and drink what you want while in treatment. Plus, brushing and flossing are no problem. They are also comfortable, with no metal to cause mouth abrasions during treatment. And no metal and wires usually means you spend less time in our office getting adjustments. Dr. Amy Van Fossen is a Certified Invisalign® Provider in Chicago.

Year-end insurance reminder from Drs. Gilleran & Van Fossen

2010-10-15T08:50:00.000-07:00

Drs. Gilleran and Van Fossen, as well as our entire team, would like to give those patients with flex spend, health savings, or insurance benefits a friendly end of the year reminder that it's about that time to schedule your dental visit(s) so you can optimize your benefits!

Now is the time to reserve you appointment with us. Space is limited and we get VERY busy around the holidays, so don’t wait to give us a call at 312-368-8771! Have a wonderful weekend!

At Gilleran and Van Fossen DDS, a pursuit of excellence

2010-10-08T16:51:00.000-07:00

At Gilleran and Van Fossen Cosmetic and General Dentistry, our Philosophy is simple. Do whatever it takes to make the patients love us.

Our entire team make every effort to provide you with the best dental treatment possible. For us, that means achieving consistently great results. There are many things that help Drs. Gilleran and Van Fossen do just that. Some of them are:

1. Using the most up to date and proven cosmetic dental technologies available
2. Spending time and resources on continuing education to stay current and relevant
3. Training our entire staff on new dental techniques
4. Educating our patients about the pursuit of dental excellence

If you or a family member has been thinking about cosmetic dental treatment, please give us a call at (312) 368-8771. We look forward to seeing you, and there's no better time to visit our convenient Chicago Loop office than in October - after all, this is National Dental Hygiene Month! Have a wonderful and relaxing weekend!

Drs. Gilleran and Van Fossen, supporting National Smile Month

2010-10-01T15:43:00.000-07:00

Ah, October has arrived. The leaves are beginning to fall, the days get shorter and all that Halloween candy is beginning to make its rounds. For our staff at Gilleran and Van Fossen Cosmetic and General Dentistry, October is known as National Dental Health Month.

We join our friends at the American Dental Hygienists' Association in spreading the word that good dental habits are easy to develop and even easier to maintain.

This year's theme is “Healthy Habits are Easier than You Think,” which focuses on prevention. Drs. Gilleran and Van Fossen know everyone is busy; living a life on-the-go is difficult for most people, but our staff is here to tell you keeping a healthy mouth shouldn’t be.

Your teeth are an important part of your body, and keeping them clean helps keep your mouth and your body healthy. By taking care of your teeth, eating a balanced diet, and visiting our convenient Chicago Loop office on a regular basis, you can have healthy teeth and an attractive smile throughout your entire life.

We encourage you to check out the ADHA's National Dental Hygiene Month website, which provides pointers on keeping your mouth clean and healthy. Lastly, has it been six months since your last visit to Gilleran and Van Fossen DDS? If the answer is yes, we encourage you to give us a call at 312-368-8771 to set up an appointment.

Have a wonderful and relaxing weekend!

Tell us your story! Why do you choose Gilleran & Van Fossen DDS?

2010-09-24T10:13:00.000-07:00

If you've ever visited our convenient office located in Chicago's Loop, you know we offer professional individualized dental care to make your smile beautiful and healthy. Dr. Gilleran and Dr. Van Fossen, along with their personable staff, are committed to providing a clean and comfortable atmosphere for up-to-date preventive, restorative and cosmetic dental care.

Whether you’ve just come in once for a cleaning or your family has been visiting us for years, we’d love to hear your feedback. You can write a review on our Facebook page or on our Google listing!

Happy Friday and enjoy your weekend! We look forward to seeing your reviews!

Dr. Patricia Gilleran presents: Invisalign and your oral health

2010-09-15T16:42:00.000-07:00

When considering treatment options in Chicago, patients often ask us how Invisalign treatment is so different than just getting traditional braces at an orthodontist's office. Well, there are more reasons to smile about Invisalign at Gilleran and Van Fossen DDS than you may know. Invisalign, a series of removable aligners that are nearly invisible, not only straighten your teeth, but can improve your oral health as well. Here’s how:

Healthy gums: Straight teeth allow a close fit for gums. This lessens the gum stress that is caused by crowded or widely spaced teeth, thus also reducing red and swollen gums.

Easy cleaning: Invisalign is removable, therefore brushing and flossing is easier and you are able to maintain a healthy mouth. These habits are vital to avoiding tooth decay, plaque and even gum disease.

Improved speech and chewing: Properly-aligned teeth don’t have the discomfort or compound speech impediments that can be caused by crowded teeth or a deteriorating jawbone.

If you have any questions about Invisalign, just ask Dr. Patricia Gilleran or Dr. Amy Van Fossen during your next visit. Or, you may post your question on our Facebook page! You can also read this article for more information on Invisalign and your oral health.

September is National Gum Care Month!

2010-09-08T16:45:00.000-07:00

With OraVerse, Dr. Gilleran and Dr. Van Fossen can reverse the numbness of anesthesia!

2010-09-02T09:37:00.000-07:00

Our staff at Gilleran and Van Fossen Cosmetic and General Dentistry are pleased to offer our patients the option to reverse the affects of anesthesia at the end of dental procedures. OraVerse, a local anesthetic reversal agent, reverses the effects of anesthesia so that it wears off in approximately 30 minutes, instead of the usual 120 minutes. This is great for those of you who need to get back to work or have important meetings scheduled after your appointment.

This cutting-edge treatment option allows patients to leave our Chicago Loop office without the unpleasant side affects that can result from anesthesia. Dr. Patricia Gilleran and Dr. Amy Van Fossen offer OraVerse at a minimal cost to our patients.

Please give us a call at 312-368-8771 if you have any questions about OraVerse, or if you would like to schedule your next appointment. See you soon!

Love your smile? Then we invite you to review us on Google!

2010-08-27T13:04:00.000-07:00

Dr. Patricia Gilleran and Dr. Amy Van Fossen, along with our personable staff, are committed to providing a clean and comfortable atmosphere for up-to-date preventive, restorative and cosmetic dental care in our convenient Chicago Loop office.

Whether you've visited our office once for a cleaning, or have been coming here for years, we encourage you to recommend us on our Google Local page!

After all, your positive reviews and referrals help Drs. Gilleran and Van Fossen create more and more beautiful smiles here in Chicago!

Thank you in advance and enjoy your weekend!

Drs. Gilleran & Van Fossen present: Foods for healthy gums and healthy hearts

2010-08-20T17:38:00.000-07:00

Gum disease, known also as periodontal disease, is far more common than you may think in the U.S. Year after year, new studies emerge that link the effect gum disease can have on your heart, and our staff at Bridgeview Dental have taken notice. Now, we're helping spread the word! One of the simplest steps to achieving healthier gums can be your diet. We recently came across a great article in EatingWell that outlines several options for healthier gums. Included among the suggestions were:

*Raisins
*Green Tea
*Whole Grains

In addition to these foods being gum-friendly, they are healthy foods in general, and a great option to begin integrating into your diet more this fall. Hope this helps! Have a wonderful weekend!

National Smile Week!

2010-08-10T10:50:00.000-07:00

August 9-13 is National Smile Week, and an ideal time to remind patients of Dr. Gilleran and Dr. Van Fossen to practice good oral hygiene to keep those teeth shining and happy! This includes brushing and flossing regularly, avoiding foods that can stain your teeth such as tea and coffee and visiting our convenient Chicago Loop office every six months or as recommended.

The American Dental Association, or ADA, recommends the following for good oral hygiene:

• Brush your teeth twice a day with an ADA-accepted fluoride toothpaste. Replace your toothbrush every three or four months, or sooner if the bristles are frayed. A worn toothbrush won't do a good job of cleaning your teeth.

• Clean between teeth daily with floss or an interdental cleaner. Tooth decay–causing bacteria still linger between teeth where toothbrush bristles can’t reach. This helps remove the sticky film on teeth called plaque and food particles from between the teeth and under the gum line.

• Eat a balanced diet and limit between-meal snacks.

• Visit Drs. Gilleran & Van Fossen regularly for professional cleanings and oral exams.

Lastly, a great reason to smile is this: smiling can actually help you live longer according to a new study! Have you visited our office lately for a cleaning or checkup? If not, give us a call at 312-368-8771 to set up an appointment! Summer is a great time for a visit!

What are you reading this summer?

2010-08-05T14:20:00.000-07:00

With summer 2010 in full swing, our staff at Gilleran and Van Fossen DDS want to remind all our patients about the importance of reading. We know it’s easy to keep putting off reading this time of year, but reading during the summer is actually a vital step in brain development. And, it can help you ward off that dreaded “summer slide.”

This week, we thought we’d ask: What's on YOUR summer reading list? What are some of your all-time favorites?

Out of ideas for summer reads? Then check out these summer reading ideas that we came across this week, courtesy of Barnes & Noble.

Happy reading, and be sure to share your summer picks with us on our Facebook page! We hope you're having an outstanding summer!!

Thanks to Invisalign®, moms and dads can have a great smile, too!

2010-07-27T10:16:00.000-07:00

Hey parents! Have you been focusing on your kids' teeth and oral health so much that you've ended up neglecting your own? If you've been thinking about having your own set of perfectly-aligned teeth, Drs. Gilleran & Van Fossen can help! We are specially trained to offer an adult-friendly option for straightening teeth called Invisalign.

This course of treatment consists of a set of clear aligners that are molded to fit your teeth. You wear them all day and night, except for meals, brushing, and flossing – when you can easily slip them out to make eating and cleaning a snap!

Because they're clear, your teeth will be steadily straightening – and, the best part is, no one will know it but you!

Please give us a call at 312-368-8771 to set up a consultation, so we can discuss the specifics of your Invisalign treatment at our convenient office located in the Chicago Loop.

Patient question: What should I do if I have an emergency this summer?

2010-07-22T09:39:00.000-07:00

Drs. Gilleran and Van Fossen know all too well that summer is a season many patients experience dental emergencies - especially while they're on vacation. From a toothache to a chipped tooth to a lost filling, summer brings with it a greater chance of people damaging their teeth when they're out and about. In many cases, there are ways you can handle these occurrences at home before you follow up with a visit with Drs. Gilleran and Van Fossen. In some instances a few minutes of attention will be all you need to effectively address a true dental emergency. Here are some common situations patients come across.

Toothaches: Rinse your mouth with warm water and floss to remove any food lodged in your teeth. A pain reliever such as aspirin may be taken to dull the pain. If swelling appears, hold a cold compress to the outside of the mouth or cheek. If your toothache is severe, or lasts longer than one day, schedule an appointment to see us as soon as possible.

Chipped/Broken Teeth: Save any pieces you can. Use a cold compress on the outside of your mouth to relieve pain and swelling, and apply gauze to the area for at least ten minutes if there is bleeding. Visit our office as soon as you can.

Objects Stuck in Teeth: Try flossing to carefully and gently remove the object. Never use a sharp or hard item to remove objects in your teeth; you risk injuring your gums and scratching your teeth. If you are unable to remove the object, visit our office.

Lost Filling: Sugarless gum and over-the-counter dental cement can work as temporary fillings, but be sure to make an appointment with us as soon as you can to replace a filling!

Lost Crown: If you cannot make it in to see us right away, apply a little clove oil to the sensitive area of the tooth with a cotton swab. Then slip the crown back on the tooth using dental cement or denture adhesive to hold it in place. Don’t use any kind of glue on your teeth. Be sure to make an appointment to see us to properly fix the crown as soon as possible.

Abscess: An abscess is a painful pimple-like swelling that usually occurs on your gums near the root of a tooth. Abscesses are caused by infection and can cause serious oral health problems, so come see us right away. In the meantime, try to ease the pain by rinsing your mouth with a saltwater solution of ½ teaspoon salt to 8 ounces of water.

Mouth Injuries: Injuries to the soft-tissue of the mouth such as the cheeks, tongue, and gums often result in bleeding. To stop the bleeding first rinse your mouth with a mild salt water solution. Then use a moistened piece of gauze to apply pressure to the site for 15-20 minutes. Holding a cold compress to the outside of the affected area will help ease pain and control bleeding and swelling. If the bleeding persists see us immediately or visit a hospital emergency room. Continue to apply gauze until you are treated.

Our staff at Gilleran and Van Fossen Cosmetic and General Dentistry will always tell you ignoring any dental problem can quickly increase the risk of permanent damage and the need for more treatment in the future. If you have any concerns, and especially if you experience a persistent dental issue, please give us a call so we can assist you and prevent an emergency.

Didn't see a question you'd like an answer to? Please call us or ask on our Facebook page! For a full list of medical emergencies and how to deal with them, please visit the American Dental Association.

Dentists, cosmetic dentists: what's the difference?

2010-07-15T10:39:00.000-07:00

Our staff at Gilleran and Van Fossen Cosmetic Dentistry will tell you that at our office, patients get two dentists for one. You get the care and attention to your oral health that any good general dentist provides. But on top of that, you get dentists in Drs. Gilleran and Van Fossen who understand the impact of a beautiful, bright smile and straight teeth.

Cosmetic dentists undergo extra training to stay on the leading edge of restorative techniques. We can whiten teeth, perform implants, add veneers and even straighten minor crooked teeth with Invisalign's clear aligners. All the while, we’re keeping an eye on your dental health. Your teeth will be in great shape, and your smile will be stunning! Our practice offers professional individualized dental care to make your smile beautiful and healthy. Drs. Gilleran and Van Fossen, along with our personable staff, are committed to providing a clean and comfortable atmosphere for up-to-date preventive, restorative and cosmetic dental care.

We've been creating winning smiles in Chicago for years, and would love to build a beautiful smile for you as well! Give us a call at 312-368-8771 to schedule an appointment.

We hope you're having a wonderful summer, and look forward to seeing you!

Drs. Gilleran & Van Fossen, protecting you from heat stroke this summer

2010-07-07T09:09:00.000-07:00

With the heat wave sweeping the majority of the East coast (and Chicago) this week, we want you to be extra careful when you’re out and about. This morning, Dr. Richard Besser on Good Morning America discussed the ways you can protect yourself from heat stroke and other heat-related conditions this week, as well as this summer.

Drs. Gilleran & Van Fossen encourage you to watch this short clip and remember to always have a bottle of water handy when heading out! Those of you who work outside for a living or plan on participating in competitive sports should especially take a moment and take a look!

More happy patients at Gilleran & Van Fossen DDS!

2010-06-29T09:17:00.000-07:00

Both Drs. Gilleran and Van Fossen love to hear from current and past patients! Please feel free to contribute your own thoughts about our service and our convenient Chicago Loop office!

"Only one visit, but very impressed. Dr. Van Fossen listened to me, gave a thorough exam, explained what she was doing at each step, and is straightforward. Her demeanor helped me relax and be open to what she had to say. I appreciated that a lot." ~ Bonni V.

"Dr. Gilleran takes time to listen to my concerns. She identifies with me and listens better than any dentist I've seen." ~ Sheryl S.

"Quality of dental service, easy to communicate, good office staff and what is very important for me: simplicity in billing." ~ Mirko P.

"The entire staff has such as great customer service orientation. they seem to love what they do, work very well together and make you feel that your visit, experience and any follow up is a priority. Wonderful." ~ Colleen G.

"Too many to list, but Dr. Gilleran is smart about her recommendations for dental care and she understands how busy we are. She has a great staff, too." ~ Lorri F.

Ask Drs. Gilleran and Van Fossen: what's Invisalign Teen™?

2010-06-22T11:47:00.000-07:00

Last week, you may recall, we discussed Invisalign treatment. Today, we thought we'd follow-up and talk a little bit about Invisalign Teen, which works much in the same fashion as its adult counterpart.

Trust us when we say Chicago Loop dentists Drs. Gilleran and Van Fossen know that for today's teens, image is everything. After all, in an age and culture when image is so important, the thought of having metal brackets and wires constantly attached to their teeth may intensify the already-delicate confidence of today's teens.

But there's a clear alternative to straightening your teeth the old-fashioned way with braces! Our staff at Gilleran and Van Fossen Cosmetic Dentistry thought we'd remind you that Invisalign Teen™ gives our teens a whole new way to wear braces for a "clearly" amazing smile!

Invisalign Teen has become a popular treatment because it provides an option for younger patients to achieve a straight, healthy smile, without anyone noticing! Unlike traditional metal braces, teens using the Invisalign Teen system can remove their aligners, allowing them to eat just about anything without worrying over damaging or breaking their braces.

The treatment period for Invisalign Teen varies from case-to-case. To learn more about these clear aligners, please contact us at (312) 368-8771 and we’ll answer any questions you may have about Invisalign Teen!

Invisalign® tips, from Drs. Gilleran & Van Fossen

2010-06-18T08:54:00.000-07:00

Many people know that Invisalign is a fantastic solution to straightening your pearly whites. What few people know, though, is that just like traditional braces, Invisalign requires proper care to work effectively. Good oral hygiene is highly important, even when you are wearing something in your mouth that you can take out to eat with. It's still likely, however, that your aligners can build up plaque if not treated properly. When wearing your Invisalign aligners, Drs. Gilleran and Van Fossen want you to ask yourself these three questions:

1. Am I eating with my aligners on? - These aligners are removable and should be taken out any time you eat.

2. Am I drinking anything other than water with my aligners on? - Though it's not necessary for you to take out your aligners while you drink, think about how sticky soda is. If you take out your aligners when drinking a soda, you have a better chance of keeping your aligners clean.

3. Am I brushing before putting my trays on? - The aligners have both an inside and outside. Keeping the outside clean is easy. Keeping the inside clean is also simple: just make sure you've brushed your teeth before putting the trays on.

These are all very simple steps, and ultimately, they help to keep you building good oral habits. If you have any questions about Invisalign or your treatment here at Gilleran and Van Fossen DDS, we encourage you to give us a call at our convenient office located in the Chicago Loop!

Drs. Gilleran and Van Fossen want to know: what's on your mind?

2010-06-10T10:25:00.000-07:00

Week after week, our creative team at Gilleran and Van Fossen Cosmetic and General Dentistry blog about important topics pertinent to dental care and your continuing treatment at our Chicago Loop office.

Today, we thought we’d step back and ask: what’s on your mind? What would you like to know about the field of dentistry? What would you like us to focus on our blog? Let us know by posting here or on our Facebook fan page!

So… take it away and Drs. Gilleran and Van Fossen will try to answer any questions you may have!

Have a great weekend.

Drs. Gilleran and Van Fossen, supporting National Smile Month

2010-06-03T12:57:00.000-07:00

Wishing you a relaxing and pleasant Memorial Day weekend, from Gilleran and Van Fossen DDS

2010-05-27T13:10:00.000-07:00

Memorial Day Weekend, only two days away, is a time when Americans everywhere stop and remember all those men and women who bravely gave their lives for our country.

Memorial Day also marks the unofficial start of summer 2010, and for many folks in Chicago, getting out of town for three days after being cooped up in the office or in the classroom is sweet relief. At the office of Drs. Gilleran and Van Fossen, we also know Memorial Day weekend is ripe for travel. After all, it’s a season of vacations, adventures and great memories. Whether you are headed to a barbecue, a camping trip, hitting America's great open roads or hanging out in your backyard this weekend, we want to know all about it!

Our entire team at Gilleran and Van Fossen Cosmetic Dentistry wish you a nice and relaxing Memorial Day weekend!

The importance of oral cancer screenings, from Drs. Gilleran and Van Fossen

2010-05-15T16:15:00.000-07:00

In our continuing efforts to provide the most advanced technology and highest quality care available to our patients, Gilleran and Van Fossen Cosmetic Dentistry screens our patients for oral cancer. The fact is, every hour of every day in the U.S., someone dies of oral cancer, which is the sixth-most common diagnosed form of the disease. The five-year survival rate is only 50 percent, and oral cancer is one of the few cancers whose survival rate has not improved.

Early detection of pre-cancerous tissue can minimize or eliminate the potentially disfiguring effects of oral cancer and possibly save your life. Ask Drs. Gilleran or Van Fossen about a screening at your next appointment! In addition to oral cancer screenings, we offer complimentary blood pressure screenings, take-home test kits for testing your cholesterol level and snoring/sleep apnea appliances (we'll be discussing these individually in the near future).

Enjoy the rest of your weekend!

Let Drs. Gilleran and Van Fossen know how they're doing!

2010-05-11T14:46:00.000-07:00

Whether you've visited the office of Drs. Gilleran and Van Fossen for a week, months or even years, we'd love to hear about your experience with us! There are lots of ways you can share your thoughts about our practice with the rest of the world, but we encourage you to head to our Google Local page and write a review there.

After all, your positive reviews and referrals help Drs. Gilleran and Van Fossen create more and more beautiful smiles here in Chicago!

Or, you may write a review on our Yelp page.

Thank you and enjoy your week!

- The team at Gilleran and Van Fossen Cosmetic and General Dentistry

Drs. Gilleran and Van Fossen, supporting National Physical Fitness and Sports Month

2010-05-03T14:08:00.000-07:00

Did you know the month of May is National Physical Fitness and Sports Month? In 1983, President Ronald Reagan encouraged Americans to include more physical activity into our lives, and the reminder is even more significant today as people are more distracted by television, social networking, video games and working more hours. Living an active lifestyle can and does improve physical and mental health, productivity and overall well-being. The best part? It doesn’t have to take a lot of time or effort.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has provided these public health guidelines for your reference. The guidelines call for people to exercise one hour every day of moderate intensity physical activity (such as playing sports or brisk walking) or one hour and 15 minutes of vigorous activity (jogging, jumping rope or dancing).

At Gilleran and Van Fossen Cosmetic and General Dentistry, we always encourage our patients to exercise or participate in sports. However, we want to remind you to always wear a mouth guard or other forms of mouth or facial protection when doing so. To learn more about how often you should exercise, we recommend you check out these helpful tips, courtesy of our friends at the American Heart Association.

Drs. Gilleran and Van Fossen want to know: Are you a teeth whitening addict?

2010-04-27T08:02:00.000-07:00

Our team at Gilleran and Van Fossen know that people want to look and feel great, and at a time when a set of sparkling teeth might mean the difference between getting a job, more and more folks are excessively trying to whiten their teeth and are running into problems, including irritation and bleeding gums, excessive teeth sensitivity and even translucent teeth.

At Gilleran and Van Fossen, we are proud of offer the latest in in-office whitening, including Zoom! professional in-office bleaching and BOOST professional in-office bleaching. We also offer custom-fit bleaching trays and in-home whitening treatments, including Crest White-Strips Supreme and over-the-counter bleaching products.

Lastly, we offer veneers and full porcelain crowns to keep your pearly whites shining. Give us a call for more info about our professional teeth whitening treatments and read more about teeth whitening addiction from our friends at WebMD.

Gilleran and Van Fossen, now open on Saturdays!

2010-04-20T09:54:00.000-07:00

We are happy to announce our office will now be open on Saturdays once a month from 8 am to 1 pm, during the summer months, and possibly twice a month the rest of the year.

So if you're just too busy on weekdays, you can now see us on Saturdays! Give us a call at 312-368-8771 to set up an appointment today. Drs. Gilleran and Van Fossen look forward to seeing you.

The results are in: Smile and you might just live longer!

2010-04-13T14:03:00.000-07:00

Great news to report today! People with big smiles may actually live than those who don’t, according to a March 2010 study at Wayne State University in Michigan. Drs. Gilleran and Van Fossen have known for quite some time that positive emotion has been linked to both physical and mental health, but researchers at the university did something quite interesting: they looked at photos of 230 ball-players who began their careers in baseball prior to 1950 and studied their smile intensity (ranging from big smile, no smile or partial smile).

The players' smile ratings were compared with data from deaths that occurred from 2006 through 2009. The researchers then took into account other factors that impact life longevity, including body mass index, career length and even college attendance.

The results? Researchers found that players who weren't smiling in the photos died at the average age of 72.9 years. Players with partial smiles lived to be 75. Those with big smiles, however, lived on average to be almost 80 years old!

Our take-away from this study? Smile now, smile often and you might just live longer! Have you been perfecting your smile by visiting Gilleran and Van Fossen Cosmetic and General Dentistry every six months? If not, give us a call at 312-368-8771!

Drs. Gilleran and Van Fossen want to know: What do you love about Chicago?

2010-04-05T08:44:00.000-07:00

Located in the Chicago Loop and serving surrounding communities here in the Windy City, Gilleran and Van Fossen Cosmetic and General Dentistry is situated around some pretty special neighborhoods. Each is unique with its own personality, created by the people and places (and our phenomenal patients) living within.

Today, Drs. Gilleran and Van Fossen thought we'd ask: What are your favorite things about Chicago? Is there a local event you attend every year? Do you have a favorite eatery? Perhaps you have a special bond with a place somewhere in the city?

Please feel free to share some information about your favorite local hang-outs in Chicago, and everything you love best about “your neck of the woods.” And, who knows, we might just post your response on our social networks!

PS Have you visited our Facebook fan page? Head over and become a fan!

Drs. Gilleran and Van Fossen, helping you save face this spring

2010-03-29T12:02:00.000-07:00

April is almost upon us, and for Drs. Gilleran and Van Fossen, that only means one thing: it’s once again time to remind our dear patients to protect their faces and pearly whites. After all, April, which is only two days away, is National Facial Protection Month. According to the National Youth Sports Safety Foundation, children, high-school athletes and adults will have more than 5,000,000 teeth knocked out in sporting events this year. Here are five tips from Drs. Gilleran and Van Fossen to save face while having fun this spring. We hope you remember them when you’re out on the ball field:

1. Wear mouth guards for contact sports such as baseball, softball, soccer and lacrosse.
2. Wear a helmet
3. Wear protective eyewear
4. Wear a face shield to avoid scratched or bruised skin
5. Be alert, even as a spectator

We hope that helps. Protective gear is vital for anyone engaging in tooth or mouth-threatening activities. If you have any further questions about any of these tips, please contact Gilleran and Van Fossen Cosmetic Dentistry by calling 312-368-8771. Stay safe!

Staying connected with Gilleran and Van Fossen Cosmetic Dentistry

2010-03-23T14:57:00.000-07:00

If you've spent one minute at Gilleran and Van Fossen Cosmetic Dentistry, you'd know we embrace anything related to technology. That includes our social networks, which includes this blog and our Facebook fan page.

For social media to work, however, Drs. Gilleran and Van Fossen understand that conversation is vital. That’s why we invite you to join in and tell us what’s on your mind. Although social networks are hugely popular these days, we know they’re unpredictable and ever-changing.

While Drs. Gilleran and Van Fossen are taking a little time to research and decide how to best use social media for our practice, we thought we’d ask you, our loyal patients: How would you like us to use our social networks? What would you like us to share on our blog? Send us your thoughts or give us a call at (312) 368-8771.

Gilleran and Van Fossen, supporting National Nutrition Month!

2010-03-15T15:48:00.001-07:00

March has arrived, and that can only mean one thing: it’s National Nutrition Month. Every March, Drs. Gilleran and Van Fossen, as well as thousands of dentists and hygienists celebrate this occasion, and this year is no different. This March, our professional team at Gilleran and Van Fossen Cosmetic Dentistry want you to think diabetes, obesity and periodontal disease, and how healthful eating and physical activity may improve periodontal health. Drs. Gilleran and Van Fossen know small changes really can make a big difference, and the American Dietetic Association (ADA) has some advice on ways to start improving your diet this March:

• Focus on fruits and veggies: Add a serving each day to one meal and increase it every few weeks. Adding more of these foods into your diet is important whether you buy frozen, fresh or organic.

• Think fresh, think local: From Chicago's farmer’s markets to community-supported agriculture, you have many options to find new, fresh foods here in the Windy City.

• It’s tempting, but…: If you have a sweet tooth, have fruit and yogurt for dessert. If you crave a snack in the afternoon, enjoy some trail mix or nuts.

• Make every calorie count: When you are choosing between options, focus instead on the one with more of the vitamins and nutrients that you need. Sometimes, foods with fewer calories aren’t always the healthiest options.

• Expand your horizons: Try a fish you’ve never eaten before or find a new vegetable recipe. By testing yourself, you might find new healthy favorites to add to your regular grocery list.

If you have additional questions about periodontal disease or keeping yourself and your mouth healthy, please give us a call!

Ask Drs. Gilleran and Van Fossen: How do you use new technology?

2010-03-12T10:31:00.000-08:00

At Gilleran and Van Fossen Cosmetic Dentistry, treatment is performed in the most relaxing environment imaginable. To help you relax, just lie back and enjoy a warm paraffin wax hand treatment, which is very soothing to cold, dry hands. We also offer hot towels.

Drs. Gilleran and Van Fossen also embrace technology, and that includes offering our patients OraVerse®, a relatively new product that shortens the duration from the effects of numbing. In addition, we use digital X-rays, which minimize radiation exposure and offer the best diagnostic quality available. Lastly, Drs. Gilleran and Van Fossen use use intra-oral cameras during treatment, which allow patients and insurance companies a close-up view of your pearly whites.

If you have any questions about the dental treatments we offer, or to learn more about paraffin wax hand treatment, OraVerse, digital X-rays or intra-oral cameras, please give us a call. We'd love to hear from you.

PS for more photos of our office and to keep up with goings-on at Gilleran and Van Fossen Cosmetic Dentistry, please visit our Facebook fan page and become a fan!

The Gilleran and Van Fossen team at the Chicago Midwinter Meeting!

2010-03-01T10:18:00.000-08:00

Our assistants and hygienists take time to pose with Flossie, the mascot of the Chicago Dental Society at the 145th Midwinter Meeting. From left to right Claudia, Flossie, Jean, Angie. Front row, Alex.

The team at Gilleran and Van Fossen Cosmetic Dentistry was among more than 30,000 dentists and dental professionals who got a first look at the latest innovations in dentistry over the weekend. The Midwinter Meeting is one of the largest exhibits of dental products in the U.S. and one of Chicago's top conventions. Stay tuned, as we will soon share with you what we learned at the Midwinter Meeting.

February is American Heart Month, from Drs. Gilleran and Van Fossen

2010-02-22T16:24:00.000-08:00

Did you know February is Heart Month? It’s a great time to take notice of the health of your heart, say Drs. Gilleran and Van Fossen. Cardiovascular disease remains American's number one killer, according to the American Heart Association. Studies have shown a correlation between gum disease and heart disease, underscoring the importance of good oral health care.

Visiting our office on a regular basis can help prevent gum disease or at least catch it in its early stages. And because people with dental insurance are more likely to visit their dentist when they should, a healthy mouth begins with a visit to Gilleran and Van Fossen Cosmetic Dentistry. In observance of Heart Month, Drs. Van Fossen and Gilleran say it’s also important to know your numbers: blood pressure (less than 120/80), cholesterol (less than 200) and BMI (less than 25). If you have any questions about heart health, or about your treatment at Gilleran and Van Fossen Cosmetic Dentistry, please give us a call today.

Access your account—any day, any time—at Gilleran and Van Fossen

2010-02-17T10:56:00.000-08:00

Access to your account any time, any day. Sounds convenient, doesn’t it? At Gilleran and Van Fossen, we embrace new technology, whether it's through the innovative treatments we offer, our high-tech web site and social networks, or our modern office conveniently located in Chicago's Loop.

Patients at Gilleran and Van Fossen Cosmetic Dentistry enjoy access to their account 24 hours a day, seven days a week—on our web site. You may look up your appointments and all of your account details at your convenience, all from the comfort of your own home! You can even receive appointment reminders through email or text messages! Just see what some of our patients are saying about this innovative service:

"Reviewing patient billing and insurance payments is great!!!" ~ Penelope H.

"This rocks. It is so nice to be able to keep track of what is going on with my appointments and bills whenever I think about it, i.e. 11 p.m., not whenever I think about it during business hours." ~ JaLyn S.

"WOWOWOWOWOW - I can get text on my appointments and confirm." ~ Mark S.

"It is helpful to see my financial information. Very interesting to see my x-rays online too." ~ Dana R.

You, too, may sign up for this convenient service on our web site by clicking the "Patient Login" button at the top of our homepage. Please give us a call if you have any questions!

Gilleran and Van Fossen, staying on the cutting edge of dental research

2010-02-10T08:00:00.000-08:00

On Tuesday February 9, Dr. Van Fossen and hygienist Jean Waters attended a lecture on the link between tartar and systemic health. The presentation was given by our referring oral surgeon, Dr. Larry Zager. They braved the snowstorm to stay on the cutting edge of research. Stay tuned for updates on this hot topic.

Dr. Gilleran, Dr. Van Fossen and staff thank you for being our patient. If you have any questions about what we learned, or have questions about your treatment at Gilleran and Van Fossen Cosmetic Dentistry, please don't hesitate to give us a call at 312-368-8771

Talking dairy and gum disease with Drs. Gilleran & Van Fossen

2010-02-02T12:52:00.000-08:00

Is dairy a major part of your diet? If not, it should be! A 2008 study from the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP) has found that regular consumption of dairy products, such as milk, cheese and yogurt, can lower your chances of contracting periodontal disease, or gum disease.

Gum disease is caused by a bacterial infection in the mouth that affects the gums and jaw. Gum disease results in a loss of teeth and bone, and has been connected to certain cases of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, respiratory disease and osteoporosis.

Results of the study show that adults who consume at least 55 grams of lactic acid a day are less at risk for gum disease. Eating dairy is not just healthy for building strong bones, but is essential for maintaining a strong, healthy mouth. Next time you reach for a quick snack, choose some cheese, or a glass of milk, and remember with each bite, and every sip you are preserving your teeth for a lifetime of smiles and good oral health!

For more information about keeping your teeth healthy, give us a call at Gilleran & Van Fossen Cosmetic Dentistry. Or, you may post your questions here. Have a great rest of your Tuesday!

What are patients saying about Gilleran and Van Fossen Cosmetic Dentistry?

2010-01-26T06:37:00.000-08:00

Located in Chicago's Loop, Gilleran and Van Fossen Cosmetic Dentistry delivers the highest quality dental care in a personalized environment. Last week, the team at Gilleran and Van Fossen asked you, our amazing patients, what you most liked about our office. Well, we received some pretty great reviews, and thought we’d share a few with you today. Please feel free to contribute your own thoughts! Drs. Gilleran and Van Fossen, as well as our entire team, just love getting patient testimonials!

"I've been with her for a long time, and she knows me well. Her entire staff is great! She keeps up with all the latest techniques and technology. I completely trust her recommendations, and I know I'm getting top-notch dental care from her." ~ Dana R.

"Thorough and honest. Location is great as well. Clean office and the music offering is a plus!" ~ Amy C.

"Dr. Van Fossen was very thorough, and really explained everything to me. The staff was friendly, and the entire experience was really enjoyable." ~ Alex D.

"Everything! My dentist - Patricia Gilleran is great which is why I have remained a patient for several years and referred so many friends and co-workers to her practice. The entire staff is great!" ~ Stephanie J.

"Honesty, trust and a level of comfort that would make me travel many miles for her services. Great patient communication." ~ Richard S.

Featured Patient Review for Gilleran and Van Fossen Cosmetic and General Dentistry

2010-01-21T10:57:00.000-08:00

On Tuesday, the team at Gilleran and Van Fossen asked our patients what they most enjoyed about coming in to our office. Well, wouldn't you know it... we received an e-mail this morning from Kelly M., a new patient, after her first appointment with us yesterday.

This is what Kelly had to say:

Hello~
& a very Good Morning to you all.
I just wanted to express my gratitude for your positively effective efforts.
On my first visit to your office yesterday, I was thoroughly impressed & extremely comfortable.
Jim, Alex, Amy & the woman/girl at the front desk were all absolutely delightful!
I will finally be a REGULAR dental patient, thanks to you all... truly thankful.

Drs. Gilleran, Van Fossen and our team just love getting patient testimonials like these! Stay tuned for more next week!

What do you love about Gilleran and Van Fossen?

2010-01-19T13:56:00.000-08:00

From your very first visit to Gilleran and Van Fossen Cosmetic and General Dentistry, our amiable team, as well as Drs. Gilleran and Van Fossen, strive to provide superior treatment in a pleasant, friendly atmosphere. Our philosophy is simple: Do whatever it takes to make the patients love us. To us, this means listening to them, making sure our patients know all possible treatments and helping them understand why we are recommending a particular procedure—instead of just telling them they need “work.”

We thought we’d ask you, our wonderful patients: Have you been especially impressed by Drs. Gilleran and Van Fossen? Did our team go out of their way to make your day? Are you in love with your new smile? Whether you’ve just come in for a consultation or your family has been visiting our office for years, we’d love to hear your feedback on our networks. Or, you can tell us by giving us a call!

Next week, we hope to share with you a few patient testimonials! Have a great rest of the week!

The advantage of Invisalign® treatment at Gilleran and Van Fossen Cosmetic Dentistry

2010-01-12T10:38:00.000-08:00

Part of what makes Invisalign "work" is that it's customizable for pretty much anyone. To find out if you are the right candidate for Invisalign treatment, the first thing we do is to take an impression of your teeth as they are now and digitize it. Using special software, we look at the current positioning of your teeth and compare it to the way your teeth should look.

Next Drs. Gilleran and Van Fossen use special software to map out the exact path your teeth will take from the beginning of your treatment to the end. Based on the results, a set of custom aligners are created just for your teeth. Throughout the course of treatment, you will be required to wear these clear, removable aligners one at a time; each one moving your teeth closer and closer to their final, perfectly aligned position. And since the aligners are virtually invisible, nobody around you will even know you are wearing braces!

Drs. Gilleran and Van Fossen are certified Invisalign providers. If you have questions about Invisalign, or would like to find out if you are a candidate for Invisalign treatment, give us a call at (312) 368-8771.

Enjoy the rest of your week!

Ask Drs. Gilleran and Van Fossen: Why is it so important to have straight teeth?

2010-01-05T13:15:00.000-08:00

Some people wonder why Drs. Gilleran and Van Fossen work so hard to give our patients straight teeth. Of course it’s nice to have a smile full of evenly aligned teeth, but did you know that straightening your teeth can keep them healthier? Straight teeth lead to better oral hygiene, increasing your chances of keeping your own natural teeth for a lifetime.

Straight teeth are less prone to decay, because they collect less plaque—the sticky colorless substance that forms on our teeth and leads to tooth decay; and they are easier to keep clean!

If you’re wondering whether your teeth might cause problems because they are out of alignment, give us a call to set up a consultation. The team at Gilleran and Van Fossen can help you decide whether or not you will benefit from treatment.

Happy Wednesday!

Meet Dr. Van Fossen

2010-01-05T13:12:00.000-08:00

Originally from Baltimore, Maryland, Dr. Van Fossen spent her four years of dental school at the Baltimore College of Dental Surgery, University of Maryland, which is the WORLD's first dental institution. Dentistry was always a logical career choice for Dr. Van Fossen because it enabled her to put her ability to ‘tinker’ to good use.

In 2003, Dr. Van Fossen was accepted into the 12 month post-doctoral general practice residency at Northwestern Memorial Hospital. During that year she met two people who would forever connect her to Chicago. The first was the man who’d become her husband, Kirk. He is a native Chicagoan and life-long Chicago sports fan. The second was Dr. Gilleran. Dr. Van Fossen was struck by Dr. Gilleran’s professional integrity and the quality of her practice, and knew immediately she wanted to be a part of Dr. Gilleran’s office.

Dr. Van Fossen’s patient care style includes creating a relaxing, comfortable and often fun atmosphere for patients. Nothing puts a smile on her face quicker than when a patient sits up at the end of an appointment and says, “that was painless” or “so much easier than I expected.” With the technological advances of today, there are very few reasons for patients to be uncomfortable. Dr. Van Fossen thoroughly enjoys her job and strives to ensure each patient’s experience is a positive one.

Meet Dr. Gilleran

2009-12-28T13:16:00.000-08:00

Dr. Gilleran, who always wanted to be a dentist, received her undergraduate degree from Kalamazoo College and went on to complete dental school at the University of Detroit School of Dentistry (now Mercy School of Dentistry). In 1987, she realized her dream of opening her dental practice in the heart of Chicago. Dr. Gilleran was selected as one of the “top-rated” dentists in Chicago in 2004 by Chicago Consumers’ Checkbook.

As much as she loves dentistry, Dr. Gilleran loves her family even more. She and her husband Tripp met on a blind date set up by a patient. They have been married since 1995 and have four beautiful children – no oldest, no youngest, no middle child. How is that? Two sets of twins – a boy/girl combination both times!

Dr. Gilleran also enjoys art, including sewing, working with photo albums, designing, and creating wall art. In fact, our offices are decorated with her own designs, as well as the designs of her mother Barb, who retired in 2006 after working for 14 years as a dental assistant in the practice.