Providing your whole family the best in holistic dental services.
Meet the Dentist
Dr. Lauren Chan, DDS
Born and raised in Joliet, Dr. Chan has been a patient of this practice since she was in elementary school. She has always had a love for helping others. After graduating from Dental school, Dr. Chan returned to this practice to be mentored and work under a Huggins trained dentist in order to pursue a career in dentistry focused on a holistic foundation. She believes that we can improve someone’s overall health by improving one’s oral health. Dr. Chan is grateful to practice in the community where she was raised and with an amazing and educated team of dental hygienists, assistants, and office personnel.
- Bachelor of Science (2005) - University of Illinois
- University of Illinois Chicago Dental School (2010)
- Omicron Kappa Upsilon – Dental Honor Society
- Lina B. Tharp Award – Omicron Kappa Upsilon Award
Meet the Dentist
Dr. Lauren Chan, DDS
Born and raised in Joliet, Dr. Chan has been a patient of this practice since she was in elementary school. She has always had a love for helping others. After graduating from Dental school, Dr. Chan returned to this practice to be mentored and work under a Huggins trained dentist in order to pursue a career in dentistry focused on a holistic foundation. She believes that we can improve someone’s overall health by improving one’s oral health. Dr. Chan is grateful to practice in the community where she was raised and with an amazing and educated team of dental hygienists, assistants, and office personnel.
- Bachelor of Science (2005) - University of Illinois
- University of Illinois Chicago Dental School (2010)
- Omicron Kappa Upsilon – Dental Honor Society
- Lina B. Tharp Award – Omicron Kappa Upsilon Award
Office Philosophy
Why Holistic Dentistry?
Unlike traditional dentistry that only focuses on fixing the problems in the mouth, we recognize that the mouth and the materials in the mouth play an integral part in a patient’s whole-body health. Our focus is to improve our patient’s overall health by improving their oral health. We will look at what factors affect the health of our patient’s mouth and how those factors affect the health of their bodies. We want our patients to live healthy lives that are free of toxins. Therefore, we use biocompatible tooth filling materials instead of toxic materials containing mercury or aluminum, focus on all areas of dental care, and utilize minimally invasive treatment options.
Amalgam and Mercury free
Amalgam or “silver” fillings are a mixture of metals that consist mostly of 50% mercury. They release low levels of mercury in the form of vapor that is inhaled and absorbed by the lungs and bloodstream. High levels of mercury exposure can have adverse effects on the brain and kidneys. Therefore, we are an Amalgam and mercury-free office. We strive to use biomimetic materials that work in harmony with your natural teeth.
If you have Amalgam fillings that need to be replaced, we follow a strict Safe Amalgam Removal protocol. The goal of this protocol is to replace your Amalgam fillings while preventing any mercury from entering your body or the environment. A synopsis of this protocol is as follows:
Safe Amalgam Removal:
- Cover your clothing with protective and water-repelling barriers
- Protective eyewear
- Latex-free rubber dam: allows us to isolate the tooth to make it easier to remove the filling material and prevent any amalgam particles from being swallowed; reduces the amount of Mercury vapor that can be inhaled
- High volume evacuation: continual suction also helps to reduce the amount of vapor inhaled through the mouth
- Continual cooling during removal of the filling to reduce any Mercury vapor released
- Remove the filling in larger chunks to reduce exposure to Mercury vapor
- Oxygen is administered through a nasal cannula to decrease the amount of Mercury vapor inhaled by the patient
- Negative ion generators
- Activated charcoal tablet – natural heavy metal absorbent; extra precaution in case any particles were ingested during the procedure as it will help remove it from the patient’s intestinal tract
Fluoride Free
Excess fluoride ingestion can cause a multitude of health conditions, including but not limited to dental fluorosis and thyroid deficiency. So instead of prescribing fluoride to try to maintain a healthy mouth, we prefer to look at the probable cause for poor dental health so it can be reduced or eliminated. Tooth decay is caused by a bacterial infection which is influenced by nutrition, diet & lifestyle, dental hygiene and hereditary factors. Once we get an understanding of how these factors affect our oral health, then we can look at more natural ways to prevent cavities and gum disease.
Latex Free
Even if you do not have latex allergies, being treated in a latex-free environment will help reduce the risk of developing sensitivities towards latex in the future.
Root Canals
In most instances, root canals are performed as a last resort to save a tooth that is infected or has died. However, months or even years after root canals are performed, bacteria can continue to multiply and reinfection can occur which then damages the surrounding soft tissue, tooth, and bone. The resultant production of toxic gases and solutions from these chronic infections can challenge our immune system and lead to illness. As a result, root canals represent a stress on our immune system that can manifest in many ways throughout the body. We recommend that patients avoid root canals whenever possible.
Importance of Dental Care In Children
We believe starting your children with routine dental care at an early age is important for multiple reasons. First, it allows us to establish the importance of taking care of their oral health. When they are familiar with coming to the dentist for preventative care, it eliminates the fear factor for them. Second, it allows us to diagnose cavities at an early stage where treatment is less involved and invasive. When a child’s first experience with a dentist is for an emergency, it creates a negative association with dental care going forward for the rest of their life. Finally, it also allows us to evaluate oral hygiene procedures at home as well as make recommendations regarding diet. Is their diet well balanced? Are they snacking too frequently? Are there concerns of mineral deficiencies? All these aspects are evaluated at your child’s periodic exams. We encourage starting your child with their very first appointment between the ages of 18 months and 2 years old.
Office Philosophy
Why Holistic Dentistry?
Unlike traditional dentistry which only focuses on fixing the problems in the mouth, we recognize that the mouth and the materials in the mouth play an integral part in a patient’s whole-body health. Our focus is to improve our patient’s overall health by improving their oral health. We will look at what factors affect the health of our patients’ mouths and how those factors affect the health of their bodies. We want our patients to live healthy lives that are free of toxins. Therefore, we use biocompatible tooth filling materials instead of toxic materials containing mercury or aluminum, focus on all areas of dental care, and utilize minimally invasive treatment options.
Amalgam and Mercury free
Amalgam or “silver” fillings are a mixture of metals that consist mostly of 50% mercury. They release low levels of mercury in the form of vapor that is inhaled and absorbed by the lungs and bloodstream. High levels of mercury exposure can have adverse effects on the brain and kidneys. Therefore, we are an Amalgam and mercury-free office. We strive to use biomimetic materials that work in harmony with your natural teeth.
If you have Amalgam fillings that need to be replaced, we follow a strict Safe Amalgam Removal protocol. The goal of this protocol is to replace your Amalgam fillings while preventing any mercury from entering your body or the environment. A synopsis of this protocol is as follows:
Safe Amalgam Removal:
- Cover your clothing with protective and water-repelling barriers
- Protective eyewear
- Latex-free rubber dam: allows us to isolate the tooth to make it easier to remove the filling material and prevent any amalgam particles from being swallowed; reduces the amount of Mercury vapor that can be inhaled
- High volume evacuation: continual suction also helps to reduce the amount of vapor inhaled through the mouth
- Continual cooling during removal of the filling to reduce any Mercury vapor released
- Remove the filling in larger chunks to reduce exposure to Mercury vapor
- Oxygen is administered through a nasal cannula to decrease the amount of Mercury vapor inhaled by the patient
- Negative ion generators
- Activated charcoal tablet – natural heavy metal absorbent; extra precaution in case any particles were ingested during the procedure as it will help remove it from the patient’s intestinal tract
Fluoride Free
Excess fluoride ingestion can cause a multitude of health conditions, including but not limited to dental fluorosis and thyroid deficiency. So instead of prescribing fluoride to try to maintain a healthy mouth, we prefer to look at the probable cause for poor dental health so it can be reduced or eliminated. Tooth decay is caused by a bacterial infection which is influenced by nutrition, diet & lifestyle, dental hygiene and hereditary factors. Once we get an understanding of how these factors affect our oral health, then we can look at more natural ways to prevent cavities and gum disease.
Latex Free
Even if you do not have latex allergies, being treated in a latex-free environment will help reduce the risk of developing sensitivities towards latex in the future.
Root Canals
In most instances, root canals are performed as a last resort to save a tooth that is infected or has died. However, months or even years after root canals are performed, bacteria can continue to multiply and reinfection can occur which then damages the surrounding soft tissue, tooth, and bone. The resultant production of toxic gases and solutions from these chronic infections can challenge our immune system and lead to illness. As a result, root canals represent a stress on our immune system that can manifest in many ways throughout the body. We recommend that patients avoid root canals whenever possible.
Importance of Dental Care In Children
We believe starting your children with routine dental care at an early age is important for multiple reasons. First, it allows us to establish the importance of taking care of their oral health. When they are familiar with coming to the dentist for preventative care, it eliminates the fear factor for them. Second, it allows us to diagnose cavities at an early stage where treatment is less involved and invasive. When a child’s first experience with a dentist is for an emergency, it creates a negative association with dental care going forward for the rest of their life. Finally, it also allows us to evaluate oral hygiene procedures at home as well as make recommendations regarding diet. Is their diet well balanced? Are they snacking too frequently? Are there concerns of mineral deficiencies? All these aspects are evaluated at your child’s periodic exams. We encourage starting your child with their very first appointment between the ages of 18 months and 2 years old.
Our Services
Preventative
Cleanings
It is recommended to have your teeth cleaned every 6 months to avoid gum disease and allow for early detection of decay or changes in gum health.
Scaling & Root Planing (SRP)
Commonly referred to as “deep cleanings” these are more in depth cleanings for those that require treatment of periodontal disease. Typically scaling and root planing are completed over the course of two appointments with a re-evaluation 6 weeks after treatment has been completed. Patients who require scaling and root planing will initially be placed on a more frequent recall period until their gum health stabilizes.
X-Rays
Cavity detection X-rays or bitewing X-rays are required once every 12 months to evaluate for cavities between the teeth and evaluate bone levels for periodontal health. A full mouth X-ray is required once every 5 years for adults to evaluate for third molars (“wisdom tooth”) and scan for any pathology in the jaw bones.
Orthodontic Evaluations
Adults and children will be evaluated to determine if a referral is needed to an orthodontist for any bite discrepancies. This is particularly important in children where some cases may require early intervention with an orthodontist.
Restorative
Non-Toxic Fillings
Resin composite or tooth-colored fillings for restoration of simple cavities. Our biocompatible material is free of Mercury, Aluminum, BPA.
Crowns
There are some circumstances where a tooth has lost too much natural tooth structure to support a filling alone. In these situations, a tooth will require a full coverage crown to provide more structural support for the tooth. We recommend either a full gold crown or Zirconia (tooth-colored) crown.
Bridges
A fixed partial denture or a bridge is used to replace one or two missing teeth with crown treatment. It is a non-removable restorative option for an area where a tooth is missing. This type of restoration typically requires healthy teeth on either side of an area where a tooth has been lost by a patient to be prepped for crowns. These supporting crowns then will be connected by another crown to replace the missing tooth.
Removable Partial
Dentures & Full Dentures
Full dentures are used to replace an entire arch of missing teeth. Removable partial dentures are used to replace one or multiple missing teeth. There are different types and materials of removable partial dentures, but typically they are fixed with clasps to surrounding natural teeth. This restorative option is removable, meaning the patient will take them out at night while sleeping.
Nightguards
Custom nightguards are recommended to patients that exhibit signs of bruxism or grinding of their teeth. These appliances are used to protect your teeth and gums from the effects of bruxism and well as treat the cause and symptoms of bruxism.
Sport guards
Sport guards are recommended to patients who participate in activities that have a high potential for damage to their teeth. Many athletes can benefit from a guard, such as football, basketball, or hockey players.
Extractions
Non-Surgical Extractions
When a tooth is diagnosed as non-restorable, then the only option is to remove the tooth entirely to avoid infection. Simple, non-surgical extractions can be done in the office along with the removal of the periodontal ligament to improve bone healing.
Our
Services
Preventative
Cleanings
It is recommended to have your teeth cleaned every 6 months to avoid gum disease and allow for early detection of decay or changes in gum health.
X-rays
Cavity detection X-rays or bitewing X-rays are required once every 12 months to evaluate for cavities between the teeth and evaluate bone levels for periodontal health. A full mouth X-ray is required once every 5 years for adults to evaluate for third molars (“wisdom tooth”) and scan for any pathology in the jaw bones.
Scaling & Root Planing (SRP)
Commonly referred to as “deep cleanings” these are more in depth cleanings for those that require treatment of periodontal disease. Typically scaling and root planing is completed over the course of two appointments with a re-evaluation 6 weeks after treatment has been completed. Patients that require scaling and root planing will initially be placed on a more frequent recall period until their gum health stabilizes.
Orthodontic Evaluations
Adults and children will be evaluated to determine if a referral is needed to an orthodontist for any bite discrepancies. This is particularly important in children where some cases may require early intervention with an orthodontist.
Restorative
Non-Toxic Fillings
Resin composite or tooth-colored fillings for restoration of simple cavities. Our biocompatible material is free of Mercury, Aluminum, BPA.
Bridges
A fixed partial denture or a bridge is used to replace one or two missing teeth with crown treatment. It is a non-removable restorative option for an area where a tooth is missing. This type of restoration typically requires healthy teeth on either side of an area where a tooth has been lost by a patient to be prepped for crowns. These supporting crowns then will be connected by another crown to replace the missing tooth.
Nightguards
Custom nightguards are recommended to patients that exhibit signs of bruxism or grinding of their teeth. These appliances are used to protect your teeth and gums from the effects of bruxism and well as treat the cause and symptoms of bruxism.
Crowns
There are some circumstances where a tooth has lost too much natural tooth structure to support a filling alone. In these situations, a tooth will require a full coverage crown to provide more structural support for the tooth. We recommend either a full gold crown or Zirconia (tooth-colored) crown.
Removable Partial Dentures & Full Dentures
Full dentures are used to replace an entire arch of missing teeth. Removable partial dentures are used to replace one or multiple missing teeth. There are different types and materials of removable partial dentures, but typically they are fixed with clasps to surrounding natural teeth. This restorative option is removable, meaning the patient will take them out at night while sleeping.
Sport Guards
Sport guards are recommended to patients who participate in activities that have a high potential for damage to their teeth. Many athletes can benefit from a guard, such as football, basketball, or hockey players.
Simple Extractions
Non-Surgical Extractions
When a tooth is diagnosed as non-restorable, then the only option is to remove the tooth entirely to avoid infection. Simple, non-surgical extractions can be done in the office along with the removal of the periodontal ligament to improve bone healing.
New Patients
New Patients
Schedule an Appointment
Please call our office at (815) 741-2752 to schedule an appointment.
What to Expect
New patients can expect their first appointment to include a cleaning if it has been 6 months since their last one, X-rays to be taken if they do not have current ones, and an initial exam. However, there are circumstances that may require a patient to be reappointed for care. For example, if periodontal disease is detected or treatment needs are extensive and warrant a consultation prior to treatment.
*If you are aware of a medical condition that requires you to pre-medicate (take an antibiotic) before your appointment (i.e. joint replacement, heart condition, etc.), please inform the front desk when scheduling your appointment.
New Patients
New Patients
Schedule an Appointment
Please call our office at (815) 741-2752 to schedule an appointment.
What to Expect
New patients can expect their first appointment to include a cleaning if it has been 6 months since their last one, X-rays to be taken if they do not have current ones, and an initial exam. However, there are circumstances that may require a patient to be reappointed for care. For example, if periodontal disease is detected or treatment needs are extensive and warrant a consultation prior to treatment.
*If you are aware of a medical condition that requires you to pre-medicate (take an antibiotic) before your appointment (i.e. joint replacement, heart condition, etc.), please inform the front desk when scheduling your appointment.