Do You Need an Emergency Dentist or the ER? Here’s How to Know

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When dental pain or trauma strikes, it can be hard to know where to go first. Should you head straight to the emergency room, or call your dentist? At Markiewicz Dental, we want you to have clarity in these stressful moments so you can get the right care as quickly as possible.

Understanding a Dental Emergency

A dental emergency usually involves sudden pain, trauma, or an issue that threatens the health of your teeth and gums if not addressed quickly. Not every dental problem requires a trip to the ER—many situations are best treated directly in the dental office.

When to Call an Emergency Dentist

In most cases, your dentist is the right person to see first. Dentists are trained and equipped to handle:

  • Severe toothaches that don’t improve with over-the-counter pain relievers
  • Chipped, cracked, or broken teeth
  • Knocked-out (avulsed) teeth – if handled quickly, they can sometimes be saved
  • Lost fillings, crowns, or restorations causing discomfort or sensitivity
  • Dental abscesses or infections (swelling around a tooth or gum)
  • Soft tissue injuries to the lips, gums, or tongue that are not causing uncontrolled bleeding

Dentists have the tools to relieve your pain, stop infection from spreading, and restore your smile.

When the ER is the Better Option

There are situations where you should skip the dentist and head straight to the emergency room, especially if your overall health or safety is at risk:

  • Uncontrolled bleeding that won’t stop with gentle pressure
  • Severe swelling of the face, jaw, or neck that makes it difficult to breathe or swallow
  • High fever and systemic illness from an infection spreading beyond the mouth
  • Facial trauma involving broken bones or possible concussion in addition to dental injury

In these cases, emergency medical care comes first. Once you are stabilized, your dentist can address the dental concerns that remain.

What to Do in the Meantime

If you’re unsure, here are a few quick steps you can take while arranging care:

  • Knocked-out tooth: Keep it moist in milk or place it gently back in the socket, and call us immediately
  • Broken tooth or filling: Rinse your mouth gently and avoid chewing on that side
  • Abscess or swelling: Use a cold compress on the outside of your face and avoid heat
  • Bleeding: Apply firm, gentle pressure with clean gauze

Markiewicz Dental – Your Local Emergency Dentist in Mundelein

Most dental emergencies are best handled by a trusted dental team who knows your history. At Markiewicz Dental, we offer same-day emergency appointments and a compassionate team ready to help you feel better fast.

If you’re experiencing a dental emergency in Mundelein, Libertyville, Vernon Hills, or the surrounding area—call us right away at 847.566.2811 We’ll guide you on whether to come in immediately or head to the ER first.

How to Help Your Child Overcome Dental Anxiety in Mundelein & Libertyville

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If your child feels nervous about visiting the dentist, you’re not alone. Dental anxiety is one of the most common challenges parents face when it comes to their child’s oral health. The good news? With the right approach—and the right dental team—kids can learn to feel comfortable and even confident at the dentist.

At Markiewicz Dental, serving families in Mundelein, Libertyville, and the surrounding Lake County communities, we believe that dental visits should be a positive experience for every child. Dr. David Markiewicz even wrote a children’s book, Dentists Are Monsters, to help kids laugh, learn, and realize dentists aren’t scary at all.

Here are five practical tips to help your child overcome dental anxiety and build lifelong healthy habits.

1. Start Dental Visits Early
The earlier your child gets to know the dentist, the more comfortable they’ll feel. We recommend bringing your child in for their first visit by age one or when their first tooth comes in. At Markiewicz Dental, our family dentistry team in Mundelein helps kids ease into the dental chair in a fun, stress-free way.

2. Use Books & Stories to Make It Fun
Kids often process new experiences best through stories. That’s why Dr. David wrote Dentists Are Monsters—a playful, kid-friendly book designed to ease fears and spark curiosity. Reading it together before a dental visit can help children in Mundelein and Libertyville see their appointment as an adventure instead of something to fear.
You can even play “dentist” at home: let your child count your teeth, then switch roles so they know what to expect.

3. Keep the Conversation Positive
Your attitude toward the dentist matters. Avoid negative phrases like “it won’t hurt” and instead highlight the benefits: “the dentist will help your teeth stay strong and shiny.” Our team always uses encouraging, kid-friendly language so young patients understand what’s happening without feeling overwhelmed.

4. Choose a Kid-Friendly Dental Office
Not all dental offices take the same approach with children. At Markiewicz Dental, our doctors and hygienists are experienced in creating a welcoming, supportive environment for kids from Mundelein, Libertyville, and nearby towns.
Whether your child is coming in for a regular cleaning or a filling, we focus on patience, gentle techniques, and celebrating progress—helping turn dental visits into positive milestones.

5. Try Relaxation & Comfort Tools
Sometimes small comforts make all the difference. Bring along a favorite toy, practice deep
breaths together, or play calming music on the way. At our office, we also offer comfort-focused options as part of our patient care experience to help kids (and parents!) feel at ease.

Smiles That Last a Lifetime
Helping your child overcome dental anxiety is one of the best gifts you can give them. With positive reinforcement, early visits, and the right dental team, your child can grow up viewing the dentist as a safe and supportive place.
At Markiewicz Dental, we’re proud to be the family dentist that generations of Mundelein and Libertyville families trust. And with Dentists Are Monsters, Dr. David brings a fun, creative way to make kids feel at home in the dental chair.
Ready to give your child a confident, comfortable dental experience? Schedule their appointment today at Markiewicz Dental in Mundelein.

Why Mundelein Families Choose Markiewicz Dental for Generations 

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Finding the right dentist isn’t just about getting your teeth cleaned — it’s about finding a trusted partner in your family’s health. For many Mundelein families, that partner has been Markiewicz Dental for decades. From grandparents to grandchildren, our patients return year after year, generation after generation, because they know they’ll be treated like family here. 

 

A Legacy of Care in Mundelein 

Markiewicz Dental was founded in 1988 by Dr. Anthony Markiewicz with a simple mission: provide exceptional dentistry in a warm, personal environment. That mission still guides us today. Now led by Dr. David Markiewicz, alongside our in-house periodontist Dr. Ryan Bogard, we’ve combined small-town values with modern technology to deliver care that’s both personal and advanced. 

Many of our patients started coming to us as children — and now they bring their own kids and even grandkids. That continuity of care builds a deep trust you just can’t find everywhere. 

 

Why Families Keep Coming Back 

Here’s what our patients say sets us apart: 

  • Generational Trust – We’ve cared for the same families for 30+ years, seeing them through every stage of life. 
  • Comprehensive Dental Services – From preventive cleanings to advanced implant dentistry, everything your family needs is under one roof. 
  • A Team That Feels Like Family – We take the time to know you, remember your story, and make every visit comfortable. 
  • Modern Technology, Small-Town Values – Digital imaging, laser dentistry, and advanced periodontal treatments meet compassionate, personalized care. 
  • Community Connection – Mundelein is our home, too. We support local schools, events, and community initiatives because we believe in giving back. 

 

Caring for Smiles at Every Age 

Our approach to dentistry is designed to meet your needs at every stage of life: 

  • Kids & Teens: Gentle first visits, preventive sealants, and education to set the foundation for lifelong oral health. 
  • Adults: Cosmetic dentistry, restorative treatments, and periodontal care to keep your smile healthy and confident. 
  • Seniors: Solutions for tooth replacement, gum health, and comfort so you can enjoy life to the fullest. 

 

From Our Family to Yours 

When you walk through our doors, you’re not just another appointment on the schedule — you’re part of our extended dental family. We’re proud that so many Mundelein families trust us with their care year after year, and we’re committed to providing the same quality and compassion for generations to come. 

 

Ready to join the Markiewicz Dental family?
Schedule your appointment today and see why your neighbors have trusted us with their smiles for more than three decades. 

 

Laser-Assisted Periodontal Therapy in Mundelein: How It Works & Why It Helps

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If you’ve been diagnosed with gum disease—or you’re starting to notice symptoms like bleeding when brushing, gum recession, or persistent bad breath – you’re not alone. Periodontal disease is incredibly common, but fortunately, treatment options have come a long way. One of the most advanced and comfortable options available today is Laser – Assisted Periodontal Therapy.
At Markiewicz Dental in Mundelein, we’re proud to offer this modern, minimally invasive solution for treating gum disease. Here’s everything you need to know about how it works, why it helps, and what to expect.

What Is Laser-Assisted Periodontal Therapy?
Laser-assisted periodontal therapy uses a dental laser to gently and precisely remove bacteria and diseased tissue from around the teeth and gums. Instead of using traditional metal instruments or scalpels, we harness focused light energy to clean deep pockets and stimulate healing—all while keeping you more comfortable.

How Does It Work?

Here’s a simplified breakdown of the process:
1. Diagnosis and Assessment:
Your gums are evaluated using digital X-rays, probing depths, and clinical examination. We often use advanced tools (including CBCT or Pearl AI) to determine where gum disease has progressed.
2. Targeting Diseased Tissue with Laser:
A thin fiber-optic laser is gently placed between the tooth and gum. The laser selectively removes infected tissue and bacteria without harming healthy tissue.
3. Root Surface Cleaning:
Next, we perform scaling and root planing (deep cleaning) to smooth the root surface and remove hardened tartar.
4. Laser Disinfection and Clot Formation:
The laser is passed a second time to disinfect the area and help form a stable clot, which promotes healing and reduces the chance of bacteria re-entering.
5. Healing Begins:
Your body takes it from here—stimulating natural reattachment of gum tissue and regrowth of healthy bone and ligaments.

Why Patients Love Laser Gum Therapy

Compared to traditional periodontal surgery, laser-assisted treatment offers a host of benefits:

  • Less discomfort (often no stitches or sutures needed)
  • Faster healing time
  • Minimal bleeding and swelling
  • Reduced need for anesthesia or sedation
  • Preserves more of your healthy gum tissue
  • Improved outcomes in moderate to severe gum disease cases

It’s a win-win: high precision with minimal trauma.

Why We Offer It at Markiewicz Dental

Our in-house periodontist, Dr. Ryan Bogard, is specially trained in advanced periodontal therapies—including laser-assisted procedures. At Markiewicz Dental, we believe in combining the latest technology with a small-town feel. That means you get the most comfortable, effective care possible without being shuffled from office to office. Whether you’re in Mundelein, Libertyville, Vernon Hills, or the surrounding area, our team is here to help protect your smile—and your health.

Do I Still Need Deep Cleaning?

Yes! Laser therapy is an enhancement, not a replacement, for deep cleaning. The laser disinfects and supports healing, but we still need to mechanically remove tartar buildup below the gumline. Think of laser therapy as the next level of care for patients who need more than just a cleaning.

Is It Time to Treat Your Gums?

Bleeding gums aren’t normal. Gum disease isn’t just a dental issue—it’s linked to heart disease, diabetes, and even cognitive decline. The good news? Gum disease is treatable and manageable, especially when caught early.
If you’ve been told you have periodontal pockets, gum recession, or you’re overdue for a cleaning—schedule a consult today and ask us about laser-assisted periodontal therapy in Mundelein.

Call Today or Book Online
At Markiewicz Dental, we’re proud to provide state-of-the-art care with a small-town feel.
Contact us today to schedule your periodontal consultation with Dr. Bogard or the hygiene team.

Serving Mundelein, Libertyville, Vernon Hills, and surrounding communities since 1988.

What My Viral Instagram Reel Told Me About How We Should Be Talking to Patients About Fluoride

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By Dr. David Markiewicz, Markiewicz Dental

Recently, I posted a reel on Instagram about fluoride. I thought it was a quick, light-hearted take on a topic we talk about every day in the dental world. What I didn’t expect? Over a million views, thousands of shares, and a comment section that turned into a digital battleground.

People had thoughts—strong ones.

Some were supportive. Others…not so much. I saw everything from heartfelt testimonials about the benefits of fluoride to conspiracy theories and angry all-caps rants. And while it would be easy to brush it off or roll my eyes, the experience actually gave me a lot to think about—especially when it comes to how we talk to our patients.

Here’s what I learned:

1. Fluoride is More Controversial Than We Realize
As a dentist, fluoride feels like a no-brainer. It’s backed by decades of research and has played a huge role in reducing tooth decay across populations. But for many people, especially those who’ve been exposed to misinformation online, fluoride feels suspicious, scary, or even harmful.

That gap in understanding? It’s on us to bridge it, not with judgment, but with clear communication and compassion.

2. The Word “Neurotoxin” Carries Weight—Even If the Science Doesn’t Support the Fear
One of the most common concerns in the comments was the idea that fluoride is a neurotoxin. That word popped up again and again—and understandably, it scares people.

Here’s the truth: almost anything can be toxic at high enough levels, including water, oxygen, and even natural remedies like essential oils. Yes, there are studies that have explored the effects of extremely high fluoride exposure in certain areas of the world. But the levels used in U.S. dental products and public water systems are nowhere near those amounts and remain well within safety margins established by long-term, peer-reviewed research.

Instead of dismissing the concern outright, we should validate the emotion behind it: “I can see why that sounds alarming. Let’s talk about what the research actually shows.” Then we can explain the difference between dosage and danger—and the importance of context.

3. People Don’t Respond to Lectures—They Respond to Stories

The reel wasn’t a lecture. It was casual, real, and had a sense of humor. And that’s why it resonated. It reminded me that patients don’t always want a science textbook explanation—they want stories, real-life examples, and a tone that feels human, not condescending.

If someone’s hesitant about fluoride, we can start by asking questions. “What have you heard?” “What are your concerns?” Then we can explain the benefits in terms that matter to them or their family, not just to a dental journal.

4. Trust Is Earned, Not Assumed
Just because I’m wearing a white coat doesn’t mean people will automatically believe me. Especially not in 2025, when trust in institutions is shaky and everyone has Google at their fingertips.

What builds trust? Listening. Taking time. Explaining the “why.” And—sometimes— acknowledging when the science is nuanced. Because let’s be honest, it often is.

5. We Need to Meet People Where They Are, Even If That Means Exploring Alternatives
Here’s something I didn’t expect this reel to teach me: maybe it’s time we take fluoride alternatives more seriously.

Not because they’re always better. Not because they’re more effective or more economical. But because that’s where some of our patients are. They’re searching for options that feel more “natural” or that align with their values—even if we don’t share those same priorities.

If our goal is to improve oral health, then we may need to work with people rather than against them. That could mean offering evidence-based alternatives like nano-hydroxyapatite, or at the very least, being open to a discussion instead of shutting it down. If a patient walks away from the dentist due to an issue with fluoride, we haven’t won— we’ve lost the chance to help them protect their health in any way.

6. Social Media Isn’t Just for Entertainment—It’s a Conversation Starter
This reel reminded me that we can’t assume our patients know where we stand—or what we recommend—on topics like fluoride. Reels, posts, and even memes are a way to open the door, not close the case.
Whether a post goes viral or not, I want our patients to know we’re here for honest, thoughtful discussions about their health—not lectures or scare tactics.

So… What’s the Takeaway?
The next time a patient asks me about fluoride, I’ll remember that reel. I’ll remember that not everyone trusts it automatically. I’ll remember that for some, the word “neurotoxin” outweighs any research I can cite.

And I’ll also remember this: we are unlikely to change someone’s mind during a single hygiene visit—especially when they’ve been influenced by years of online content and social mistrust. That’s not a failure; it’s just a reminder of the limits of the one-on-one dental appointment.

That’s why it’s so important that we offer real, science-backed alternatives for patients who are fluoride-hesitant. It’s not giving in—it’s meeting people in the middle.

The larger effort to change public perception around fluoride shouldn’t fall solely on dentists in private practice. That work belongs with organized groups like the ADA, public health institutions, and large-scale education campaigns. They have the resources and reach to shift the narrative. We, in the meantime, can focus on meeting individual patients with empathy, respect, and options.

And yes—I’ll keep making reels. Because if one silly video can get millions of people talking about oral health, I’d say that’s a pretty good start.

Signs You Need a Periodontist vs. a Dentist

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Not sure if you need a periodontist or a general dentist? Learn the key signs and symptoms that indicate when it’s time to see a periodontal specialist in Mundelein, IL.

When it comes to oral health, knowing whether to see a general dentist or a periodontist can make a big difference—especially if you’re dealing with gum-related issues. At Markiewicz Dental in Mundelein, IL, we offer both general dentistry and specialized periodontal care under one roof, making it easy for patients to get the right treatment at the right time.

What Is a General Dentist?

A general dentist is your go-to provider for routine dental care. They handle preventive services like cleanings and exams, as well as fillings, crowns, and cosmetic dentistry. Think of them as the primary care doctors of the dental world.

What Is a Periodontist?

A periodontist is a dentist with advanced training in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of periodontal (gum) disease. They also specialize in placing dental implants and performing procedures like gum grafts or bone regeneration. At our office, Dr. Ryan Bogard is a board-certified periodontist who works closely with our general dentists to provide comprehensive care.

7 Signs You May Need to See a Periodontist

1. Persistent Bleeding Gums
If your gums bleed every time you brush or floss, it’s more than just a nuisance—it could be an early sign of gum disease. A periodontist can diagnose and treat the problem before it gets worse.
2. Receding Gums
Notice your teeth look longer than they used to? Gum recession can expose the roots of your teeth, making them more sensitive and prone to decay. Gum grafting may be needed to restore your gum line.
3. Loose or Shifting Teeth
Adult teeth should never feel loose. This could be a sign of advanced periodontal disease or bone loss—both of which require specialized treatment.
4. Chronic Bad Breath (Halitosis)
Bad breath that won’t go away can sometimes be caused by bacteria deep below the gum line. A periodontist can clean these areas more thoroughly than a standard cleaning.
5. Deep Gum Pockets
During a dental exam, if your dentist measures gum pockets deeper than 4mm, you may be referred to a periodontist for scaling and root planing or other advanced therapies.
6. You’ve Been Diagnosed with Gum Disease
Mild gingivitis can often be treated by your general dentist, but moderate to severe gum disease—periodontitis—should be managed by a periodontal specialist.
7. You’re Considering Dental Implants
A periodontist is the expert in placing dental implants. If you’re missing teeth and exploring options, seeing a periodontist ensures a strong, long-lasting result.

When to See a General Dentist
 Routine exams and cleanings
 Toothaches or cavities
 Cosmetic dental work
 Crowns, fillings, and minor restorations
General dentists are great for maintaining overall dental health, but when the gums are involved, it’s often best to call in a specialist.

Why Choose Markiewicz Dental in Mundelein?

Our team includes both experienced general dentists and a skilled periodontist, Dr. Ryan Bogard. That means you can get specialized care without needing to be referred out to a separate office. Whether you’re due for a cleaning or worried about gum disease, we’ve got you covered.
Schedule your consultation today to find out if periodontal care is right for you.

What to Do If You Haven’t Been to the Dentist in Years

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If it’s been years since your last dental visit, you’re not alone—and you’re not beyond help. Life gets busy, and dental visits often get pushed aside. But no matter how long it’s been, the team at Markiewicz Dental is here to help you get back on track—with no judgment, just gentle care.

Why People Avoid the Dentist

Many patients avoid the dentist for reasons like:

  • Dental anxiety or fear of pain
  • Bad past experiences
  • Busy schedules
  • Lack of dental insurance
  • Embarrassment about their oral health

We get it—and we’re here to change how you feel about going to the dentist.

First Steps: What You Should Do

If you’re ready to get back into the dental chair, here’s how to make your return easy and stress-free:
1. Choose the Right Dental Office – Look for a practice that values compassion, experience, and modern technology. At Markiewicz Dental, we’ve built our reputation in Mundelein, Libertyville, and Vernon Hills by providing state-of-the-art care with a small-town feel.
2. Be Honest About Your History – During your first appointment, tell us how long it’s been since your last visit and if you have any fears or concerns. This helps us tailor your experience to be as comfortable as possible.
3. Start with a Comprehensive Exam
Your first visit may include:

  • A full set of digital X-rays
  • A periodontal (gum) evaluation
  • A discussion of any concerns, pain, or goals
  • A gentle cleaning, if appropriate

We take time to explain what we find and work with you to build a care plan that fits your needs and budget.
4. Don’t Be Embarrassed – We’ve seen it all—really. Whether you have cavities, gum issues, or are just nervous, you’ll find a welcoming, supportive team ready to help. Our goal is progress, not perfection.

What If You Need a Lot of Work?

If it’s been several years, there may be issues that need attention—like decay, gum disease, or worn-down restorations. But don’t worry: We’ll prioritize treatment based on urgency and help spread out care so it fits your schedule and budget. Whether it’s routine cleanings or full-mouth restorations, we’re equipped to guide you every step of the way.

The Benefits of Getting Back to the Dentist

  • Improved confidence and appearance
  • Better overall health (oral health is linked to heart disease, diabetes, and more)
  • Early detection of issues before they become major problems
  • Fresh breath and a clean, healthy smile!

Ready to Start?

If it’s been 2, 5, or even 15 years since your last dental visit—today is a great day to return. We make it easy. Give us a call or request an appointment online. You’ll be met with kindness, professionalism, and a clear plan to get your smile healthy again.
847-566-2811
Markiewicz Dental | 852 N. Route 83, Mundelein, IL
amdds.com

Comprehensive Periodontal Services in Mundelein

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Since 1988, Markiewicz Dental has been serving the communities of Mundelein, Libertyville, and Vernon Hills with a commitment to excellence in dental care. Our board certified periodontist, Dr. Ryan Bogard, leads our periodontal team, offering a range of services including:

Deep Cleanings (Scaling and Root Planing): Essential for removing plaque and tartar buildup below the gumline.

Gum Grafting: Addresses gum recession to protect tooth roots and improve aesthetics.

Dental Implants: Provides a permanent solution for missing teeth, restoring function and appearance.

Laser-Assisted Periodontal Therapy: Utilizes advanced technology for less invasive treatment and quicker recovery.

Our state-of-the-art facility is equipped with the latest dental technology, ensuring precise diagnostics and effective treatments.

Why Choose Markiewicz Dental?

Experienced Team: Our dental professionals have decades of experience in providing top-tier periodontal care.

Personalized Care: We tailor treatment plans to meet the unique needs of each patient.

Advanced Technology: Utilizing cutting-edge equipment for accurate diagnosis and efficient treatment.

Comfortable Environment: Our office is designed to make your visit as comfortable and stress-free as possible.

We understand that visiting the dentist can be daunting, which is why we prioritize patient comfort and clear communication throughout your treatment journey.

Conveniently Located for Residents of Mundelein, Libertyville, and Vernon Hills

Our office is situated at 852 IL-83, Mundelein, IL 60060, making it easily accessible for patients from neighboring communities. We offer flexible scheduling options to accommodate your busy lifestyle.

Schedule Your Periodontal Consultation Today

Don’t let gum issues compromise your oral health. Contact Markiewicz Dental to schedule a comprehensive periodontal evaluation. Our team is here to help you achieve and maintain a healthy, confident smile.

Call us at (847) 566-2811
Visit us at 852 IL-83, Mundelein, IL 60060
Learn more at amdds.com

Permanent Teeth in a Day: All-on-X Dental Implants in Mundelein with Dr. Ryan Bogard

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Looking for a permanent solution to missing teeth? Learn how All-on-X dental implants from Dr. Ryan Bogard at Markiewicz Dental in Mundelein can restore your smile. Serving Libertyville, Vernon Hills, and surrounding areas.

Regain Your Confidence with All-on-X Dental Implants

If you’re living with missing teeth or uncomfortable dentures, there’s a life-changing solution available right here in Mundelein. At Markiewicz Dental, our in-house periodontist, Dr. Ryan Bogard, offers All-on-X dental implants — a cutting-edge procedure that can restore your entire smile in just one day.
Patients from Libertyville, Vernon Hills, and across Lake County choose Dr. Bogard for his surgical expertise, precision, and compassionate care.

What Is the All-on-X Procedure?

The All-on-X (also known as All-on-4 or All-on-6) dental implant procedure uses four to six strategically placed implants to support a full arch of permanent prosthetic teeth. This technique is ideal for patients who have lost most or all of their teeth, offering a more stable and natural alternative to dentures.
Benefits include:

  • Same-day smile transformation
  • Improved bite and chewing function
  • A long-term solution with minimal maintenance
  • No more loose dentures or adhesives
  • Preservation of jawbone structure

Why Choose Dr. Ryan Bogard for All-on-X in Mundelein?

As a board-certified periodontist, Dr. Bogard is specially trained in implant surgery and oral reconstruction. With years of advanced training and a focus on full-mouth rehabilitation, he provides:

  • Precise digital planning using 3D imaging
  • Minimally invasive surgical techniques
  • Immediate-load protocols so you leave with a new smile the same day
  • Customized treatment plans for optimal aesthetics and function

Dr. Bogard’s expertise ensures that your All-on-X procedure is safe, comfortable, and built to last.

Serving Libertyville, Vernon Hills & Beyond

At Markiewicz Dental, we’re proud to provide state-of-the-art care with a small-town feel. Whether you’re in Mundelein, Libertyville, Vernon Hills, or nearby communities, you can count on our team to guide you through every step of your All-on-X journey — from consultation to recovery and beyond.

Is All-on-X Right for You?

All-on-X is ideal for:

  • Patients missing all or most of their teeth
  • Those looking to replace dentures with a permanent solution
  • People struggling with failing bridges or crowns
  • Individuals with some bone loss (bone grafting may not be required)

Dr. Bogard offers comprehensive evaluations to determine your candidacy and will walk you through the process with clarity and care.

Schedule Your Consultation Today
If you’re ready to restore your smile and quality of life, contact Markiewicz Dental today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Ryan Bogard.
Conveniently located in Mundelein, we proudly serve patients from Libertyville, Vernon Hills, and surrounding areas.
Call us at 847.566.2811 or visit www.amdds.com to request your appointment.

Why Healthy Gums Matter: The Link Between Gum Recession and Tooth Loss

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When most people think about oral health, their focus is usually on teeth—brushing twice a day, whitening, or fixing cavities. But what about your gums? At Markiewicz Dental in Mundelein, we know that healthy gums are the foundation of a healthy smile—and they play a major role in keeping your teeth right where they belong.
If you’ve noticed your teeth looking “longer,” or you’re feeling increased sensitivity, you may be experiencing gum recession—a condition that, if left untreated, can lead to serious consequences like tooth loss.

What Is Gum Recession?
Gum recession occurs when the gum tissue surrounding your teeth wears away or pulls back, exposing more of the tooth or even its root. This can be caused by:

  • Gum disease (gingivitis or periodontitis)
  • Aggressive brushing
  • Genetics
  • Tobacco use
  • Teeth grinding or clenching
  • Misaligned bite or crooked teeth

As the gums recede, the tooth becomes more vulnerable to decay, sensitivity, and loosening.

How Receding Gums Lead to Tooth Loss
Your gums are more than just a frame for your teeth—they protect the supporting bone and tissues that hold your teeth in place. When gum tissue pulls away:

  • Plaque and bacteria can easily invade deeper areas around the roots.
  • Inflammation and infection can break down the bone that supports your teeth.
  • Eventually, without enough support, teeth can become loose and fall out—or require extraction.

Tooth loss isn’t just a cosmetic issue—it can affect your bite, jawbone health, and ability to eat or speak comfortably.

How a Periodontist Can Help
Dr. Ryan Bogard, our in-house periodontist at Markiewicz Dental, specializes in diagnosing and treating gum conditions. If you’re experiencing gum recession, he may recommend:

  • Deep cleanings (scaling and root planing) to remove infection
  • Gum grafting to restore lost tissue and protect exposed roots
  • Ongoing periodontal maintenance to prevent further progression

When it comes to preserving your smile, early intervention is key. The sooner gum recession is addressed, the better the chances of saving your natural teeth.

Protect Your Smile—Start with Your Gums
If you’re in Mundelein, Libertyville, Vernon Hills, or surrounding areas, and have concerns about your gums, you’re not alone—and you’re not out of options. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Bogard today to see how we can help restore your gum health and protect your smile for years to come.