Dr. Linda M Sommercorn MS, DDS, RPH

Dentist | General Practice

287 Peterson Rd Libertyville IL, 60048 Show map

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About

Dr. Linda Sommercorn is a Dentist practicing in Libertyville, IL. Dr. Sommercorn specializes in preventing, diagnosing, and treating diseases and conditions associated with the mouth and overall dental health. Dentists are trained to carry out such treatment as professional cleaning, restorative, prosthodontic, and endodontic procedures, and performing examinations, among many others.

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Dr. Linda M Sommercorn MS, DDS, RPH

Dr. Linda M Sommercorn MS, DDS, RPH's Expert Contributions

My Answers

Why does a cracked tooth have to be pulled?
Once the tooth cracks into the area between the roots or into the orifice of one of the root canals, it is usually considered to be non-restorable. This is because when a tooth is cracked down into the root or the area between the roots, bacteria can reside in the crack and create an infection causing the PDL (the ligament that holds the tooth in bone) to break away from the tooth and this area cannot repair itself. Thus, the tooth loses its supporting structures, PDL and bone. In such cases, the best option (the Mercedes of treatment) is extraction, bone graft, and implant. READ MORE
Do cavities ever need to be refilled?
If you are having a lot of pain, it is possible that the filling could be leaking or the original filling may have been close to the nerve and over time it has been irritated enough to cause the nerve to start to die and thus cause you pain. READ MORE
Can my silver fillings be replaced with white fillings?
I would only replace your fillings if your dentist feels that these old fillings are leaking or have recurrent decay around them. White fillings may look great, but if your fillings are large and close to the nerve, these fillings can cause increased sensitivity. READ MORE
How often do you need your teeth cleaned?
Cleanings are recommended every 6 months, unless you have periodontal problems (gum disease), dry mouth, or excessive buildup of calculus. If you have gum disease, dry mouth or excessive buildup, your dentist will usually recommend cleanings every 4 months or even every 3 months, depending how severe the problem is. READ MORE
What foods should I avoid with braces?
Avoid highly acidic foods, heavy carbs, and sticky foods and candy. Especially avoid gummy candy like gummy bears, taffy, etc., and avoid highly acidic candy such as Nerds, Warheads, Sweet Tarts. Dark chocolate is OK. It is best if you buy an ultrasonic toothbrush when you have braces, such as a Phillips Elite ultrasonic toothbrush (there are other brands too). These are available at Target, Walmart, Sam's Club, and maybe even Costco. READ MORE
Would anesthesia be used during my root canal?
If you are going to see a root canal specialist, they are usually experts at getting patients numb, so not to worry. The only time anesthesia is not used is if the nerve is already dead, however since the tooth is isolated by a metal clamp and a rubber dam during root canal procedures, most endodontics will use some local anesthesia to place the clamp even if the nerve is dead, because most patients feel that the clamp is uncomfortable. READ MORE
I have had 3 teeth chip in the past year. Is this normal?
Are you bleaching your teeth? This can lead to decalcification or demineralization of the teeth making them more likely to chip. Are you clenching or grinding your teeth? This can lead to microfractures and eventual chipping or cracking of teeth. READ MORE
What is the importance of using dental floss?
Yes, flossing is important to do on a daily basis as this cleans the areas between your teeth where a brush cannot reach. Not flossing leads to interproximal decay (cavities between your teeth). We have a saying in our office, "Floss only the teeth that you want to keep." READ MORE