expert type icon EXPERT

Dr. Leo Don Morton, D.D.S.

Dentist (Pediatric)

Dr. Leo Morton is a Dentist practicing in Glenview, IL. Dr. Morton 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.
45 years Experience
Dr. Leo Don Morton, D.D.S.
  • Glenview, IL
  • University of Nebraska, Lincoln
  • Accepting new patients

How do you floss under braces?

Use floss threaders, bridge cleaners, superfloss and Platypus floss sticks

Is there an alternative to braces?

It depends on what is the goal of the braces. Sometimes cosmetic results can be accomplished with veneers and crowns but many factors have to be considered with alternative care. READ MORE
It depends on what is the goal of the braces. Sometimes cosmetic results can be accomplished with veneers and crowns but many factors have to be considered with alternative care.

Is it normal for a 5 year old to lose a tooth?

While the 'average' age to lose a tooth is around 5, it is an average and 5 is not abnormal.

Root canal

At 5 years of age we are talking about "root canal" treatment of a primary tooth. This treatment may be require to preserve the tooth until it is time for the tooth to be replaced READ MORE
At 5 years of age we are talking about "root canal" treatment of a primary tooth. This treatment may be require to preserve the tooth until it is time for the tooth to be replaced by it's permanent successor. With local anesthetic it is not too painful. Without this treatment if needed then the tooth may need to be extracted( another option)

Is it normal to have teeth pain with braces?

There can be some 'discomfort' with orthodontic appliances as forces applied to move the teeth can be associated with some discomfort. Over the counter analgesics can help.

Can I get a deep cleaning with braces?

Yes you can and you should. Your dentist/hygienist has instrumentation to provide this service and is very important with orthodontic appliances in place.

How do I stop my child from grinding her teeth at night?

Grinding in young children at night is quite common. This is usually not pathologic but the body's way of adjusting the bite due to growth. This usually occurs when the child READ MORE
Grinding in young children at night is quite common. This is usually not pathologic but the body's way of adjusting the bite due to growth. This usually occurs when the child is in deep REM sleep and the jaws are in the most relaxed position. They are usually so deeply asleep at that time and it does not wake them but is frequently heard by parents in another room. This should stop when the 6 year molars erupt and are in occlusion. It is most of the time not a problem

What happens if you get a cavity on your wisdom teeth?

If the wisdom tooth is in a good position and does not need to be removed for any reason then you can and should get the tooth repaired. Untreated it will progress to a larger READ MORE
If the wisdom tooth is in a good position and does not need to be removed for any reason then you can and should get the tooth repaired. Untreated it will progress to a larger more complex repair

How do you stop your braces from hurting after tightening?

Analgesics. There is some discomfort as teeth move but will subside depending on how much force is being applied to achieve the desired movement.

How do they sedate a toddler for dental work?

There are a number of options for sedation including oral, iv and general anesthesia. The Dr. should be able to discuss with you the treatment options, modalities of sedation/general READ MORE
There are a number of options for sedation including oral, iv and general anesthesia. The Dr. should be able to discuss with you the treatment options, modalities of sedation/general anesthesia, risks and alternatives.

Can I have orthodontics even if I have an underbite?

Yes orthodontics can be done but sometimes depending on the extent of the "Underbite" surgery may also be required to get the desired cosmetic/functional result.

Can my child eat after a dental cleaning?

Yes but the timing can be influenced on whether a fluoride treatment is provided at that time.

Does a child's oral health affect their overall health?

Absolutely. Oral infections can lead to systemic and serious medical concerns if not treated.

Why are my son's gums bleeding after a dental cleaning?

The 'gums" can be bleeding after a cleaning due to pre-cleaning conditions of the teeth and gum tissue. Removal of deposits below the gum tissue can cause bleeding. Unhealthy READ MORE
The 'gums" can be bleeding after a cleaning due to pre-cleaning conditions of the teeth and gum tissue. Removal of deposits below the gum tissue can cause bleeding. Unhealthy gums before cleaning will result in more bleeding during and after the cleaning but is a reflection of the health of the gum tissues.

What happens if a baby tooth doesn't fall out?

5 is pretty young to be concerned with a tooth not falling out. Your dentist can give you more information based on an xray. The tooth may not fall out if the replacement is READ MORE
5 is pretty young to be concerned with a tooth not falling out. Your dentist can give you more information based on an xray. The tooth may not fall out if the replacement is missing or if the permanent tooth is not in the correct position.

Is it okay to use Sensodyne for children?

Yes perfectly fine to use Sensodyne for children.

What color should a tooth extraction site be?

The extraction site can undergo changes as a normal part of healing. One of the first phases of healing can be off white granulation tissue and could be misinterpreted as infection READ MORE
The extraction site can undergo changes as a normal part of healing. One of the first phases of healing can be off white granulation tissue and could be misinterpreted as infection or pus which could also be white. If concerned, contact the dentist who extracted the tooth.

Are braces supposed to make your teeth feel tight?

Yes. Forces from the appliances create pressure and can be interpreted as "tightness"

Can a 14 year old get Invisalign?

That would depend on what orthodontic movement is needed. My recommendation would be to be evaluated by an orthodontist who used invisalign and has the expertise to explain the READ MORE
That would depend on what orthodontic movement is needed. My recommendation would be to be evaluated by an orthodontist who used invisalign and has the expertise to explain the limits of this.