expert type icon EXPERT

Neal Nealis, D.D.S.

Dentist

Neal Nealis, DDS is a top Dentist in Chicago, . With a passion for the field and an unwavering commitment to their specialty, Neal Nealis, DDS is an expert in changing the lives of their patients for the better. Through their designated cause and expertise in the field, Neal Nealis, DDS is a prime example of a true leader in healthcare. As a leader and expert in their field, Neal Nealis, DDS is passionate about enhancing patient quality of life. They embody the values of communication, safety, and trust when dealing directly with patients. In Chicago, IL, Neal Nealis, DDS is a true asset to their field and dedicated to the profession of medicine.
50 years Experience
Neal Nealis, D.D.S.
Specializes in:
  • Dentist
  • General Dentistry
  • Oral Health
  • Chicago, IL
  • University of Illinois -Urbana
  • Accepting new patients

How do dentists treat cavities between teeth?

Cavities that occur on tooth surfaces that contact adjacent teeth are treated by cutting through healthy tooth structure above the cavity to gain access. Keep in mind that most READ MORE
Cavities that occur on tooth surfaces that contact adjacent teeth are treated by cutting through healthy tooth structure above the cavity to gain access. Keep in mind that most of these cavities occur because of too frequent consumption of carbohydrates combined with not enough flossing. No dental restoration is ever as good as the original tooth structure.

Neal Nealis, DDS

What happens during a gum graft?

Gum grafts are usually done by transferring gums from the roof of the mouth to the new site. 

Neal Nealis, DDS

My permanent retainer is causing irritation?

Your dentist should adjust your bite. Orthodontics moves teeth to positions which usually do not have all forces in balance. The muscles then try to move the teeth to positions READ MORE
Your dentist should adjust your bite. Orthodontics moves teeth to positions which usually do not have all forces in balance. The muscles then try to move the teeth to positions of balanced forces. As the final step of orthodontics the teeth should be adjusted to eliminate as many contacts as possible which interfere with ideal force distribution. Bottom line: ask your dentist to adjust your bite.

Neal Nealis, DDS

Which is better floss or floss picks?

Floss picks do a pretty good job, but floss is better if done correctly.

Can a CT scan show a dental abscess where a bitewing X-ray would not?

A dental CT scan called a CBCT scan is much more accurate than conventional X-rays for revealing abscesses. 

Why do I have teeth shifting even with bonded retainers?

Nature does not understand oral esthetics. It only understands function. Your teeth naturally move to where forces are in balance. A dentist can move teeth out of the position READ MORE
Nature does not understand oral esthetics. It only understands function. Your teeth naturally move to where forces are in balance. A dentist can move teeth out of the position of balance but nature will tend to move them back. Retainers attempt to sustain this position of imbalance but in your case the natural forces are greater than the forces generated by the bonded retainers. Hope this makes sense. 

Does enamel repair toothpaste really work?

Enamel repair toothpaste does repair tooth enamel, but on a microscopic level. Don’t expect to repair anything visible to the naked eye. 

What causes an oral cyst?

Oral cysts can develop from a variety of causes. If around the tip of a root, it could be from a dead pulp. If around the crown of an impacted tooth, it could be from the residual READ MORE
Oral cysts can develop from a variety of causes. If around the tip of a root, it could be from a dead pulp. If around the crown of an impacted tooth, it could be from the residual membrane which was involved with the formation of the crown. This would be a good question to ask your dentist. 

Is having a dry socket dangerous?

Dry socket is painful, but easily treated. Dangerous only if left untreated. 

What are the lumps inside my mouth?

You should first see your dentist. Then if he cannot diagnose your lumps, see an oral surgeon. 

Can a tooth with a root canal hurt years later?

Pain in a tooth treated with a root canal can be related to a failed treatment, a fractured root, or something off in the bite, among other causes. You need to see a dentist before READ MORE
Pain in a tooth treated with a root canal can be related to a failed treatment, a fractured root, or something off in the bite, among other causes. You need to see a dentist before it gets worse. 

Which kind of braces are best?

Clear braces offer advantages over traditional wires and brackets in most situations; however, there are some movements where wires are brackets are better. To decide what would READ MORE
Clear braces offer advantages over traditional wires and brackets in most situations; however, there are some movements where wires are brackets are better. To decide what would be best for you would require an examination with X-rays. Best to visit your dentist or orthodontist. 

Do dental bridges damage teeth?

There are two types of dental bridges, fixed and removable. Removable ones grip the teeth adjacent to the empty space. It is economical, but not very comfortable. The support teeth READ MORE
There are two types of dental bridges, fixed and removable. Removable ones grip the teeth adjacent to the empty space. It is economical, but not very comfortable. The support teeth are not damaged so long as the appliance is kept clean. A fixed bridge involves grinding down the teeth adjacent to the space for crowns. The crowns are attached to one another with false teeth and the appliance is then cemented into the support teeth. The fixed bridge is more durable than the removable one, but costs more. No solution will ever be as good as the original teeth, but leaving the space with no bridge will lead to loss of more teeth. Best to discuss the options with a dentist. Of course, dental implants are the best alternative if they can be placed. 

Is Invisalign safe for children?

Invisalign can be done on teenagers, but is complicated. Take your son to see an orthodontist. 

Do you brush your teeth before a dental cleaning?

Brush and floss before a dental cleaning. The purpose of the cleaning is to remove the deposits not cleaned by a brush or floss. 

What is the best pain relief after a tooth extraction?

Pain after extraction should not last long. Best controlled with an NSAID such as ibuprofen. Note: maximum pain relief with ibuprofen is six tablets. Eight is no better, but harder READ MORE
Pain after extraction should not last long. Best controlled with an NSAID such as ibuprofen. Note: maximum pain relief with ibuprofen is six tablets. Eight is no better, but harder on your stomach and kidneys. 

Will my teeth fall out from receding gums?

The gums take their shape from the underlying bone. If your gums are receding due to bone loss, then you may lose your teeth. Better get checked by a dentist or gum specialist.  READ MORE
The gums take their shape from the underlying bone. If your gums are receding due to bone loss, then you may lose your teeth. Better get checked by a dentist or gum specialist. 

Is a dental cyst removal painful?

Discomfort following a cyst removal depends upon its size and location. Best to ask a dentist who can view an X-ray. 

Do crowns hurt afterwards?

Crowns should not hurt after placement. When they do, the most common cause is the bite has not been fully adjusted, and a visit with the dentist is indicated. 

How can I make my gums heal faster?

You should heal fairly quickly and notice daily improvement. Best way to assist healing is to get plenty of sleep, do not smoke and eat a healthy diet.