Do Not Ignore a Toothache as You Enjoy Your Holiday Treats.

It’s okay…we know you will be enjoying more sweet treats than you normally do.  It is all part of the holidays.  You know the protocol - brush frequently, floss often and rinse your mouth out to avoid the ravages of tooth decay.

The important thing is DO NOT let a toothache continue in hopes that it goes away.  Your mouth is talking TO you rather than FOR you.  It is telling you to have a qualified dentist look closely at the problem.

The good folks at Blackman and Bliss are trained to spot problems right away.  Maybe it is nothing.  Maybe you need a filling or even a root canal.  It is important to discover this early in 2015, especially if your new insurance coverage has kicked in.

Do not delay!  At the first sign of oral discomfort call your Bloomingdale, Carol Stream and Wheaton area dentist, Blackman and Bliss at (630) 260-0333 and have a brighter 2015.

Now is the Time to Take Advantage of Your Dental Insurance Benefits.

Dental insurance is calculated on a calendar year basis.  Unlike medical insurance it may not be available in the same amount or at all in the new year.

It is very important to use all of the dental insurance that you are entitled to by December 31st or else it will disappear with old man 2014.  If you have been putting off a check-up, a root canal, a crown, a cleaning, a filling or any other dental procedure you need to make the call to Blackman and Bliss DDS at (630) 260-0333 NOW!

There are still appointment times available for 2014 so that may use whatever dental insurance you have remaining for the year.  What a waste to pay those premiums and never take advantage of the benefits.

Your Carol Stream general dentist, Blackman and Bliss, specializes in different areas of general dentistry including oral surgery, orthodontics, cosmetic dentistry and more.  Call them today for a dental appointment at (630) 260-0333.

Avoid Sickness By Taking Care Of Your Teeth

Dental health can lend itself to your overall health. Especially with cold and flu season o the horizon. Here are a few tips to stay healthy this fall and winter by keeping your mouth clean.

Be sure to replace your toothbrush regularly – a toothbrush that’s not clean can be a source of bacteria and germs as it’s put into the mouth. Replace a toothbrush every four months, whether it appears worn out or not to reduce the spread of germs.

If you’ve been sick--get a new toothbrush – once you’ve gotten over the cold or flu, 

you should get a new toothbrush or risk reinfecting yourself every time you clean your teeth

Sanitize your toothbrush – any oral health supplies, whether it’s a toothbrush, or tools that help with flossing, can be sanitized. When items are damp, but them in the microwave for one minute to kill bacteria.

Tooth Sensitivity Is Common and Treatable.

Tooth sensitivity is a common complaint, especially in the colder months. Sometimes this is a relatively easy problem to solve. Studies show that one in four people suffer from sensitive teeth. There are many contributing factors, but more importantly--there are solutions.


First, deterring the cause is the most important. Tooth and gum sensitivity can be the result of gum disease, plaque and tartar build up, and harmful acids. Determining which of these factors is the culprit will determine the treatment.


The good news? They are all treatable! Make an appointment with us today and we will find the best solution for your situation.

We Don't Bite. We Fix Bites.

Waiting to visit your dentist until something hurts isn't a good idea. Many people think they are avoiding pain by avoiding the dentist. That isn't true. In fact, you will incur a lot more pain if you don't go.

Sure, Dental offices can be intimidating. But, at Blackman & Bliss, we will put you at ease the moment you arrive. All of our services are under one roof, which means you don't have to go all over town for each tooth. Our personable and friendly staff will accommodate you and make you feel at home. No cold, stale environment here. Bright smiling faces and the pursuit of dental health and happiness!

Don't avoid us. Doing so will only allow the cavities to win. Call us today, we're on your side in the war on plaque and gingivitis.

Sweets Can Sour a Smile

Halloween is around the corner and so are all of those sugary sweets. This year, be prepared for the onslaught of dental damaging delectables by being prepared... With a brush and floss!

Handing out candy is an ages old tradition, but who says traditions can't change? Why not hand out something a little less damaging to the teeth, like fruit snacks or sugar free goodies.

You can really be the most unpopular house on the block by handing out toothpaste and floss. But guess what, the parents on the block will love you! Why? because you're doing your part to save them thousands of dollars in dental expenses down the road.

Have a fun and safe Halloween. Be sure to practice safety and vigilance and don't forget to brush!

Serving Smiles With A Smile

Blackman & Bliss DDS has been serving the communities of Bloomingdale, Wheaton and Carol Stream for over 30 years. It's no coincidence how many beautiful smiles live within these areas. If you are new to the area and are in need of a full service Dentist and Orthodontist look no further than us! Or, if you aren't new to the area but haven't come to visit us--what are you waiting for? We'd love to see you!

We take pride in your smile. Call us today to find out how we can help brighten your smile.
(630) 260-0333

One Stop Oral Health.

The benefit of having an all encompassing and autonomous dental facility is that you only have to go to one place for all of your procedures.

Too often, the dental and medical communities are divided into sects. Sects that cause you, the patient, to have conflicting advice and information regarding your oral health. You may have to see a dentist who happens to think your orthodontist is making a hasty decision by removing your child’s braces. Or maybe your orthodontist thinks that your dentist isn;t a good practitioner. Or, they are buddies and give each other business, without regard for your needs.

At Blackman & Bliss, we have under one roof--all of your dental, orthodontic, and surgical capabilities one mouth could ever need!

Communication isn’t an issue here. Our dental professionals are all on the same page. That page is your oral health and happiness.

If you haven’t seen us lately-- make an appointment today! We’d love to see you.

Save Your Teeth. Get A Custom Fit Mouth-Guard

When the kids are going back to school, it is a smart investment to get your child fitted for a mouth guard if he or she plans on playing sports. Mouthguards aren’t reserved for only contact sports, they can be remarkably effective in preventing or lessening oral injuries.


Basketball may not seem like a contact sport, but a wayward elbow thrown, a spill taken, a rebound sought, all can end up in dental disaster.


This fall, before your child starts playing their sport, talk to our Dental professionals about a custom fit mouthguard. Statistics have shown that they can be instrumental in the difference between a sore lip and missing teeth. A custom fit mouthpiece is discreet and costs next to nothing. The amount of money it will save in dental repair is what makes it such a sound investment. And for near pennies you can avoid thousands of dollars of damage.


Before the whistle blows, talk to our professionals about a custom fit mouthguard. A small investment that goes a long way.

All of Your Dental and Orthodontic Needs Under One Roof

Blackman & Bliss DDS provides family friendly service that fulfills all of your dental and orthodontic needs under one roof.

Whether it's a check up and a cleaning or x-rays and oral surgery, we are equipped to handle all of your needs. Serving your smile with a smile is our goal. We know it can be a sometimes frightening experience to go to the dentist, but as we've said before: The far more frightening scenario is NOT going to the dentist.

Having all of our services offered under one roof makes it a more comfortable environment for someone who is nervous about the experience. Knowing your files, information, dentists and assistants are all on the same page should help alleviate you trepidation. And if that's not enough, our family friendly staff will work to put you at ease so you keep coming back, twice a year!

If you are in need of extreme dental repair or just a cleaning, we're your one stop neighborhood shop. Come by and see us!

The Perfect Solution To a Whiter Smile

The dentists of Blackman & Bliss, DDS have a wide array of procedures that deal with our aesthetic concerns. One of which is porcelain veneers. Porcelain veneers are a custom made, ultra thin tooth colored shell that is made with the purpose of covering the front surface of one's teeth to improve their appearance. Porcelain veneers can change the color, shape, size, and length.

Common uses for porcelain veneers includes the treatment of:

• misshapen teeth
• discolored teeth
• teeth that are misaligned
• chipped teeth
• cracked teeth
• gaps between teeth
• worn teeth 

Depending on the results you'd like to achieve, porcelain veneers may be the perfect solution to your problem. If you live in the Bloomingdale, Wheaton, and Carol Stream areas, contact Blackman and Bliss DDS at 630-260-0333 or online at www.blackmanandblissdds.com for more information on the benefits of porcelain veneers.

Invisalign For Adult Patients

There are many adults that wish they had a healthier, straighter smile. With today's advancements in orthodontics, there is no time like the present for that wish to become a reality.

Our on-site Orthodontist, Dr. Marty Verbic, recommends Invisalign for many adult patients looking to correct their smiles. One of the key benefits of Invisalign are the clear, custom-made aligners used to gradually and unobtrusively correct your smile.

Designed for convenience, the aligners can be easily removed for eating, brushing, and special occasions. Gone are the days of metal brackets and wires. Approximately every two weeks you will use a new set of aligners until your transformation is complete.

If you live in the Bloomingdale, Wheaton, and Carol Stream areas, contact Blackman and Bliss DDS at 630-260-0333 or online at www.blackmanandblissdds.com for more information on the benefits of Invisalign.

What Are The Tips To Prevent The Gum Disease Gingivitis?

Gum disease is a serious but often painless disease. Many people don't know they have it until the damage has been done. Research links gum disease to diabetes and heart disease. If you catch gum disease early, you can protect your teeth and gums. You may even help protect your overall health.
The first stage of gum disease: gingivitis.

Gingivitis is the mildest form of gum disease. Signs of gingivitis include red, swollen gums that bleed when you brush or floss.

You can reverse gingivitis if you:

1. Brush daily
2. Floss daily
3. Get regular cleanings

You should also know:
Gum disease is an infection of the gums. Your gums hold your teeth in place tightly. Many people don't realize they have gum disease until damage has been done.If you catch it early, you can treat gum disease without surgery.

Instilling Great Dental Habits In Your Child.

Dental care starts day one. Before we even have teeth, we have to treat our gums right. For a great way to instill great dental habits in your child, here are a few tips.
Want to prevent your child from developing tooth decay? Want to eliminate the bacteria known to cause it?
Follow stringent dental care practices, and you can drastically reduce the bacteria present in the mouth, cutting the risk of tooth decay significantly. Fortunately, this is not a difficult goal, if you follow these simple dental care steps:



1. Avoid giving young children sweetened beverages, sugary snacks, or a large number of snacks throughout the day.
2. Never dip pacifiers in honey as a way to calm your baby.
3. Do not allow an infant to fall asleep with a bottle.
4. Do not share utensils or cups with your children to avoid spreading the bacteria in your own mouth to theirs.
5. Help small children brush their teeth properly to ensure good oral health over the long term.
6. Supervise your children's brushing sessions.
7. Make sure they have the right type of toothpaste.
8. Flossing is important for older children, to eliminate food particles that can easily lead to the tooth decay.

A Competent Dentist In Chicagoland Who Is Knowledgeable In All Fields Of Dentistry.

When looking for a competent dentist who is knowledgable and accredited in all fields of dentistry, look no further than Blackman and Bliss DDS. Serving Bloomingdale, Wheaton and Carol Stream for more than three decades.

Dr.Blackman and Dr.Bliss, along with our professional staff will make you feel at ease. We understand some dentist offices can be cold and unwelcoming. As a community based business, we pride ourselves on maintaining and improving the oral health of generations of families that come through our office over the years. Building relationships and knowing our patients and providing them with the best quality care for affordable rates.

Whatever your dental and or orthodontic needs are, we have you covered. Offering a full array of plans and options, we will work with you to achieve optimal oral health.

Call us today for an appointment. Let us serve you and your family for generations to come.

Cosmetic Dentistry Is Now Affordable For Nearly Everyone In Chicagoland.

Your smile says a lot about you. At Blackman and Bliss DDS, we offer not only general dentistry but also cosmetic dentistry. When some folks hear "cosmetic dentistry" they immediately associate it with plastic surgery: "an unattainable option reserved solely for the wealthy"--not true.
Cosmetic dentistry has made great strides in the advancement of dental technology. We can do for your smile what used to be available to only the Hollywood elite. It used to cost in excess of 30 thousand dollars ,in many cases,for people to get a smile like Denzel Washington.

With the advancement and quality of veneers and lumineers, a Hollywood smile is available to you right here in Carol Stream, Illinois!-- and you don't have to star in a movie to get them!

We accept all major credit cards, insurance providers, and our professionals will work with you to find a payment plan that best suits your needs.

Your smile says so much about you. Think of them as the picket fence that adorns your mouth. Sure, thinking of wooden teeth isn't exactly where you thought this article was headed, but here's the metaphor-- If that picket fence were worn and weathered, you would mend it and paint it, thus improving the quality of your home and yard (mouth and face). And ultimately your home's overall value (your self esteem and quality of life).

So, let's mend that fence. It's a lot easier than you think and much more affordable than you can imagine. It probably is more affordable than a picket fence. Those run steep and aren't made of porcelain. Porcelain lasts longer than wood.

Hope your'e not lost in the metaphors. The short of it is, fix your smile today and improve the rest of your life. A smile is a terrible thing to hide!

Poor Dental Care Is In Direct Correlation With Heart Disease.

So you haven't been to the dentist since the late 80's. You're scared to go now and just decide to avoid the dentist all together. Instead you opt to hang out with the grim reaper. A bit far fetched? Not really.

Did you know poor dental care is in direct correlation with heart disease? Think of all of those times you ducked the dentist only to let an infection in the mouth get into your blood stream, travel to your heart and- well, you know the rest. Scared? You should be. You should be scared if you don't visit a dentist regularly. Sure dentists grab those cold tools and put you under that bright light while the hose slurps your mouth dry. Small price to pay to avoid heart disease, wouldn't you say?

So, if you haven't visited a dentist since the Reagan administration and are wary of what he may do to you, think of the daily assault not only to your teeth, but to your body. Unless your a mechanic, you most likely take your car in for repair. Regard your teeth with as much maintenance as your beloved car. Even Dentists see Dentists- Kind of hard to work on your own mouth under sedation.

Be afraid of the dark, be afraid of spiders but don't be afraid of the dentist. We're here to help. We just want to hang out twice a year. Gingivitis wants to homestead in your mouth. We don't sound so bad anymore, do we?

What To Do About A Toothache At Night Before Seeing Your Dentist In The Morning.

It's the middle of the night and you are awoken by excruciating pain. It's a toothache. So powerful it woke you from your dream-your dream about a toothache. You sit up in bed, touch the side of your face and suddenly realize it's real. Your toothache was so powerful it became the antagonist in your dream.


Pain, however, is a good thing. Yep, I'll say it again. "Pain-Is-A-Good-Thing"... "Why?" -You ask. Think of pain as our body's DEFCON level. When we feel no pain we are at DEFCON 5. All is well in the oral world and we have no enemies. Until that is plaque and gingivitis begin their assault. That's when pain let's us know something is amiss and we need to locate the problem.

As the day progresses, your oral defense-condition dwindles to DEFCON 3. A mild toothache is on the horizon but you've dismissed it as perhaps a wayward popcorn kernel, or maybe you were chomping on your gum like a horse. Either way, you ignore it-even though the pain is sending you warnings of incoming enemies.

You brush your teeth and floss-and for the moment, they feel better. Your oral state seems to be back to DEFCON 5. You get in bed and fall asleep peacefully only to have dreams of a giant molar chasing you with a Louisville slugger. You wake up in a cold sweat; with a toothache-DEFCON 1. It's 4 a.m and your dentist isn't open. What do you do until the cavalry comes?

Here are a few tips to combat the enemy toothache until you see your dentist in the morning.

1.Gently floss in between the sore tooth to remove any food debris or particles that may be lodged there.

2.Gently rinse your mouth out with warm salt water.

3.Purchase an over-the-counter pain reliever such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen (acetaminophen, if it is for a child age 2 or older) and take according to directions on the package.

4.You can apply oil of cloves or an over the counter antiseptic that contains benzocaine directly onto the gums or tooth. Both of these act as a numbing agent to temporarily relieve pain. Never place anything else such as aspirin or other pain relievers near the tooth or on the gum because they can cause the gum tissue to burn.

5.A cold compress can be applied to the facial area if a trauma has occurred, to reduce pain and swelling.

This should force the enemy combatants and the plaque brigade to back off until we can properly assess and diagnose the problem. Keep your oral Defensive Condition in tact by brushing twice daily and flossing. A peaceful mouth is a clean mouth.

Good Oral Dental Health Starts At An Early Age

Good oral dental health starts at an early age. The earlier you instill good dental hygienic habits in your kids, the better. Show your kids that practicing good oral health is important and can be fun by practicing good oral health yourself. Do as I say, and as I do!

Be sure to take your children to the dentist regularly (usually every six months or as directed by your dentist) for routine cleanings and check-ups. This is not only good for the mouth, but the psyche, as kids can build a comfort level with their dentist as a result of routine visits. Getting to know your Dentist makes he or she less a of stranger and more of a friend. -- A friend who makes you smile and keeps your smile clean.

Always be sure to ask your children if they brushed their teeth before they leave for school and when they are getting ready for bed. Brushing with your kids is also a great idea. Teach your children the importance of flossing too.Just as brushing is important in preventing cavities, flossing is equally important for in-between the teeth. Flossing also helps to prevent gum disease, which can contribute to health complications later in life.

We aren't just your dentist, we're your friend and the keeper of your smile. If you live in the Bloomingdale, Wheaton, and Carol Stream areas, contact Blackman and Bliss DDS at 630-260-0333 or online at www.blackmanandblissdds.com to make an appointment.

Installing Good Oral Hygiene Routines In Your Children

Instilling good oral hygiene routines in your child's day to day is an investment that will save you both money and headache in the future. Oral hygiene seems like a hassle to most kids. "Where's the fun?" They ask. Here are a few tips to get your kids involved in practicing good oral hygiene and have fun while doing so.

1. Let your child pick out his or her own toothbrush and toothpaste. You can even encourage him to choose more than one at the store, and then let him have the choice of deciding which to use each time he brushes his teeth. This will give your child a sense of control over the situation and make him feel more involved in the process. Plus, it never hurts to have spare toothbrushes.
2. Buy your child some books about the importance of tooth brushing, and make a daily routine of reading those books before heading to the bathroom sink each day.
3. Make a game of good dental practices. Have the children in your house keep a chart in the bathroom. Every time they brush their teeth, they get a gold star. Brush as a family. Kids always want to do what mom and dad are doing. A family that brushes together, avoids plaque together.
4. Make a playlist of your child's favorite music, and then let them brush along to the beat. Tell your child he cannot stop brushing until the song finishes, and alternate songs each time your child goes to brush to keep things interesting.
5. Have your child pick out a timer from the store and use that to assist your child in knowing how long to brush. When the timer goes off, it is time to rinse.
6. Create a dental grooming kit for your child similar to daddy's shaving kit or mom's nail kit. Include toothpaste and brushes, floss, mouthwash, and anything else your child wants or needs in the kit. Let your child keep his kit next to parent's in the bathroom.
7. Set a good example by taking good care of your own teeth, and by teaching the importance of good dental hygiene to your children. Children like to mimic adults and feel grown up. If they see you brushing your teeth regularly, they will be more inclined to do the same.

You can use more than one of the above ideas at a time with your child. It is just a matter of finding out what works best for your particular child. Using different methods as your child ages is often a good idea as well.

If you live in the Bloomingdale, Wheaton, and Carol Stream areas, contact Blackman and Bliss DDS at 630-260-0333 or online at www.blackmanandblissdds.com to make an appointment.

Dr. Blackman Featured In Jade Dental Lab's News Letter

Remember To Rinse Your Mouth Thoroughly After Eating To Remove Debris

Children and adults should visit us for a regular cleaning and check up every six months. People at a greater risk for oral diseases should have dental check-ups more than twice a year. Tobacco and alcohol use, diabetes, pregnancy, periodontal and gum disease, poor oral hygiene and certain medical conditions are some of the many factors that your dentist takes into consideration when deciding how often you need your dental cleaning and check up.

Between visits it's important to brush and floss TWICE daily. It's not a bad idea to carry around a disposable toothbrush that can be found at any major drug store. Using these following a meal while eating out is a great way to proactively combat plaque and gum disease.

Another importance that isn't as advertised is rinsing. Be sure to rinse thoroughly. Sometimes brushing and flossing may loosen debris but still fail to remove it. Rinsing your mouth and swishing it around for a minute will not only remove that stubborn fibrous debris, it will leave your breath smelling great!

If you live in the Bloomingdale, Wheaton, and Carol Stream areas, contact Blackman and Bliss DDS at 630-260-0333 or online at www.blackmanandblissdds.com to make an appointment.

Flossing Between Your Teeth Is Essential To Avoid Periodontal Disease

A lot of people take for granted the importance of flossing. Flossing between your teeth is essential to avoid periodontal disease, it also prevents tooth decay. Periodontal disease is one of the main causes of tooth loss in adults and can be easily prevented by flossing. Studies have even shown that flossing can also help prevent heart attacks and strokes.

Flossing Prevents Plaque

Dental plaque is made up of harmful micro-organisms which include bacteria, viruses, and protozoa (microscopic parasites). If there is plaque left between teeth and near gums, it can accumulate and cause inflammation. This is the first phase of gum disease which is called gingivitis.

If gingivitis is not taken care of, it may develop into periodontitis, a more advanced and more severe stage of the disease. Periodontitis damages the alveolar bone that holds teeth in the jaw. If not treated, this disease may therefore eventually lead to tooth loss.

Another great reason to floss is the prevention of halitosis. If dental plaque that is found between teeth is not cleaned, it will eventually release a foul smell from your mouth. This is a major reason why a person may suffer from bad breath (halitosis). Tooth decay and gum disease, also caused by dental plaque, are a source of a bad smell in the mouth, as well.

If you live in the Bloomingdale, Wheaton, and Carol Stream areas, contact Blackman and Bliss DDS at 630-260-0333 or online at http://www.blackmanandblissdds.com/ for more information on the benefits of flossing.

When Should I See A Dentist For A Tooth Ache?

Have you ever wondered when to see the dentist for a toothache? Toothaches are painful. Everyone has had one, and just thinking about them can make you wince. But when does that pain become a sign that it's time to make an appointment? If you are experimenting a dull or mild tooth pain, this might just be sensitivity. Everyone's teeth are sensitive to different things. Sometimes ice cream can cause temporary pain. In this case, a visit to the dentist probably isn't necessary. Rinse with warm salt water and brush with a sensitive toothpaste.

If you have a toothache that becomes sensitive to all of the elements for an extended period of time, then it's time to visit a dentist. An abscess may have occurred and the problem is only going to get worse. It's not unlike a leak on a boat, the hole is going to grow bigger with time and will allow more particles of food and other nerve damaging, painful elements into the tooth.

In many cases, particles of food and debris do get stuck inside of the tooth. At that time, a root canal is needed to thoroughly clean the affected area. That is done to ensure no debris is left behind, because if it is there will be detrimental effects on the tooth and whether or not it can be saved.

If you live in the Bloomingdale, Wheaton, and Carol Stream areas, contact Blackman and Bliss DDS at 630-260-0333 or online at http://www.blackmanandblissdds.com/ for more information on tooth sensitivity.