expert type icon EXPERT

Dr. Selam Totonchi

Dentist

Dr. Selam Totonchi is a Dentist practicing in Wheaton, IL. Dr. Totonchi 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.
13 years Experience
Dr. Selam Totonchi
  • Wheaton, IL
  • University of Illinois - U/C
  • Accepting new patients

How soon can I get a filling after a root canal?

You should get the filling and crown within a month of getting the root canal. Dr. Totonchi

Do zirconia crowns last forever?

Nothing lasts forever. They last longer as long as you properly brush 2x/day and floss everyday as cavities can still form under the crowns. Ideally, we try to have the crowns READ MORE
Nothing lasts forever. They last longer as long as you properly brush 2x/day and floss everyday as cavities can still form under the crowns. Ideally, we try to have the crowns last at least 7-10 years. Sometimes they last over 20-30 years. Dr. Totonchi

How painful is a root canal?

Sometimes it can be uncomfortable, especially if the tooth is infected. But its to save the tooth instad of pulling it. Dr. Totonchi

What is the best mouthwash for a gum infection?

Brushing and flossing is the best way to clear a gum infection. Using mouthwash can help but it does not remove the source of the infection. A good type of mouthwash would be anything READ MORE
Brushing and flossing is the best way to clear a gum infection. Using mouthwash can help but it does not remove the source of the infection. A good type of mouthwash would be anything that is non-alcoholic. The best mouthwash for a gum infection is Chlorhexidine Gluconate 0.12% (Brand name Peridex) which should be used only 2x/day up to 10 days. Dr. Totonchi

Does it hurt getting a crown on an implant?

Not at all. You may feel some pressure but you will not even need any anesthetic/numbing to put a crown on an implant. Dr. Totonchi

Are dental implants worth the money?

Yes, they preserve your bone which helps from creating bone loss near the adjacent teeth. They also replace a missing tooth to help with chewing and esthetics. In addition, if READ MORE
Yes, they preserve your bone which helps from creating bone loss near the adjacent teeth. They also replace a missing tooth to help with chewing and esthetics. In addition, if you replace the missing tooth with a bridge, then that means the two teeth to the side of the missing tooth would have to be drilled down to be smaller to fit the bridge on top of them. Best wishes, Dr. Totonchi

Can partial dentures cause gum pain?

Yes, usually after getting new partial dentures, certain gum areas may hurt because the partial is too tight at that spot. Usually after a couple days of wear, you will need to READ MORE
Yes, usually after getting new partial dentures, certain gum areas may hurt because the partial is too tight at that spot. Usually after a couple days of wear, you will need to return to your dentist so they can adjust those spots on the denture so it does not hurt anymore. Dr. Totonchi

Is a dental bridge noticeable?

Usually not if the color/shade of the bridge is well matched to the adjacent teeth. Dr. Totonchi

Can fluoride treatment reverse cavities?

Yes, fluoride can prevent, stop them from getting worse, and reverse small cavities. However, nothing beats brushing 2x/day and flossing 1x/day

Are zirconia veneers permanent?

Nothing is Permanent but as long as your brush and floss and go to your
regular cleanings, the Veneers can last you 10-30 years

Dr. Totonchi

How painful is a dental bone graft?

Some minir discomfort that most likely is taken care of with Tylenol and
Advil for a few days.

Dr. Totonchi

What is the alternative to a dental bridge?

If there is only one or two missing teeth, the only other alternative is an
implant, providing there is enough bone and space.

Dr. Totonchi

Tooth Extraction

The ER will most likely not be able to do anything. Look for another dentist that is open to doing a limited exam. Call them first and ask if they have dry socket paste.

Can you chew gum with a traditional dental bridge?

Yes you can chew gum with a bridge.

Dr. Totonchi

What are the disadvantages of a dental crown?

None, just still floss to keep bacteria from causing cavities under it

When can I exercise after dental implant surgery?

The next day is fine to exercise. Its good to rest on the day you have the
procedure done.

Dr. Totonchi

How long do stitches stay in after dental implant surgery?

It depends on the type of stitches used. One type dissolves in about 1-2 weeks, one type in one month and there are types that do not dissolve and you have to return to the dentist READ MORE
It depends on the type of stitches used. One type dissolves in about 1-2 weeks, one type in one month and there are types that do not dissolve and you have to return to the dentist to remove them. Most likely though they will use one of the types that dissolve.

How can I fix crowded teeth?

Braces or Invisalign can fix the crowding

Dr. Totonchi

How do you get used to talking with dentures?

You need to practice speaking in front of a mirror or read a book out loud
to practice.