Dr. John Rottschalk

Maximize Your Insurance Benefits!

October 23rd, 2013

We would like to give those patients with flexible spending accounts (FSAs), health savings accounts (HSAs), or insurance benefits a friendly end-of-the-year reminder:  There is still time to reserve an appointment in order to utilize your benefits before they expire.  Our schedule tends to get busy toward the end of the year, so don’t wait to give us a call at 624-3838

Sincerely,

http://www.drjohndentalgroup.com/

Independence Day Facts, Tips, and Party Invitations!

July 2nd, 2012


It’s hard to believe, but July is already here and half of 2012 has already passed! As July 4th approaches, our team thought it would be fun to share some facts and safety tips for celebrating our country’s independence day.

Fun Facts:
• Betsy Ross, according to legend, sewed the first American flag in May or June 1776, as commissioned by the Congressional Committee.
• The major objection to being ruled by Britain was taxation without representation. The colonists had no say in the decisions of English Parliament.
• The word ‘patriotism’ comes from the Latin patria, which means ‘homeland’ or ‘fatherland.’
• The first public Fourth of July event at the White House occurred in 1804.
• And what could be more fitting than spending the day in a place called “America”? There are five such places in the country, with the most populous being American Fork, Utah, with 21,941 residents. Check out American Fact Finder.

Safety Tips:
• Avoid buying fireworks that are packaged in brown paper because this is often a sign that the fireworks were made for professional displays and that they could pose a danger to consumers.
• Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose handy in case of fire or other mishap.
• Never carry fireworks in a pocket or shoot them off in metal or glass containers.
• To prevent a trash fire, be sure to douse the spent fireworks with plenty of water from a bucket or hose after fireworks complete their burning and before discarding them.
• Make sure fireworks are legal before buying or using them.

What are your plans this 4th of July? Share them with us! We’d love to hear what you and the rest of the community will be doing to celebrate! (Don’t forget to make sure there are no restrictions on fireworks! Check out this link to see if fireworks might be an issue for you this year.)

Also, check out these 4th of July party invitations, eGreeting cards, and delicious recipes!
July 4th eCard invitations!
Happy Independence Day eCards
Independence Day Recipes

Photo by shawnajean

Photo by shawnajean

When Was Your Last Dental Cleaning?

May 14th, 2012

You water the garden three times a week, you change your car's oil every three months, and you replace the batteries in your smoke detectors once a year. Your teeth need to see your dentist on a regular schedule, too.

While daily oral hygiene habits are essential to good oral health, professional dental cleanings at our office ensure your teeth are treated to a deeper level of cleaning. We recommend for most of our patients to have a checkup at least every six months. In addition to a thorough cleaning and polishing of your teeth, these regular visits help us detect and prevent the onset of tooth decay and periodontal (gum) disease. During your visit, we’ll check the health of your mouth, teeth, gums, cheeks, and tongue. We’ll also check old fillings and restorations, as these can wear away over time from constant chewing, grinding, or clenching.

If you are predisposed to oral diseases, you may need to visit our office more often than every six months. Factors at play in these diseases include age, pregnancy, tobacco use, medical conditions (such as diabetes, dry mouth, or HIV infection), along with how well you take care of your teeth on a daily basis.

Make sure your teeth get the professional attention they deserve – If you’re overdue for your next cleaning, check with our office to schedule an appointment!

Spring is here! Do we have your current contact info?

April 12th, 2012

Spring is in the air! As you probably know, you can always connect with us on our Facebook page, but we invite you to please contact our office with any updates to phone numbers and addresses, so that we may be able to reach you.

We also encourage you to call us and let us know if you have any new phone numbers or if your contact information has changed!

Thank you! Have a great week!

April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month

April 2nd, 2012

Visiting our office regularly will not only help keep your teeth and mouth healthy, but will also help keep the rest of your body healthy. The fact is, every hour of every day in the U.S., someone dies of oral cancer, which is the sixth-most common diagnosed form of the disease. The five-year survival rate is only 50 percent, and oral cancer is one of the few cancers whose survival rate has not improved. Since April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month, we would like to take this opportunity to remind all of our patients about the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene.

We are trained to diagnose, treat, and prevent oral health problems. Please let us now if you have any questions about your oral health during your next appointment. Take care of your teeth!

The Scoop on Dental X-rays

March 26th, 2012

Dental X-rays are an essential and invaluable tool to help assist us in evaluating your oral health. With X-rays, we can see what’s happening beneath the surface of your teeth and gums and identify oral health issues otherwise hidden during a visual exam, including:

  • · small areas of decay between the teeth or below existing restorations (fillings)
  • · infections in the bone
  • · periodontal (gum) disease
  • · abscesses or cysts
  • · developmental abnormalities
  • · types of tumors

If left untreated, these problems can lead to expensive, time-consuming, and painful conditions, so it’s important to find and treat them early.

Dental X-rays are extremely safe, and our team is certified in the proper use of our digital X-ray equipment. The amount of radiation that you are exposed to from dental X-rays is very small compared to your daily exposure from things like atmospheric radiation and naturally-occurring radioactive elements, as well as medical X-rays you may have gotten at your doctor’s office or hospital. In fact our digital system dramatically decreases the already minimal amount of exposure even further.  We try to be as conservative as possible when prescribing x-rays but do need them to see what is going on where our eyes can't see.

Are dental implants right for you?

March 7th, 2012

If you have missing teeth, it is crucial to replace them. Without all your teeth, chewing and eating can destabilize your bite and cause you discomfort. Dental implants are a great option for replacing missing or badly diseased teeth. A dental implant offers comfort, support, stability, and is as close to a natural tooth that a restoration can be.

There are many benefits to dental implants:

  • Dental implants restore your ability to chew food properly.
  • They fill out a face that may otherwise look sunken in because of missing teeth.
  • They don’t need to be removed for overnight cleaning and soaking.
  • No adhesives are needed.
  • You’ll feel more confident to show off your smile to the world.
  • Each implant is created to fit in perfectly with the look of the rest of your teeth.

President’s Day Fun Facts!

February 21st, 2012

Yesterday was Presidents’ Day, a day known for celebrating of both George Washington’s and Abraham Lincoln’s combined Birthdays. Presidents’ Day was created in 1971, when President Richard Nixon combined the birthdays of two of our most well-known presidents into one single federal holiday. Presidents' Day also marks a hard-earned day off from work and school for a lot of our patients at Dr. John Rottschalk Dental Group.

Here are a few fun facts about our nation’s presidents:

*Abraham Lincoln, our 16th president, carried letters, bills and notes in his tall stovepipe hat.

*George Washington is the first president to be featured on a postage stamp.

*Ronald Reagan, our 40th president, broke the so-called "20-year curse," in which every president elected in a year ending in zero died in office.

*Abraham Lincoln was the tallest of the U.S. presidents, measuring 6’ 4” tall.

*Virginia is the birthplace of more United States presidents than any other state, followed by Ohio and Massachusetts.

*Harry S. Truman was the first president to have his Inauguration and speeches televised.

February is American Heart Month

February 7th, 2012

Did you know February is American Heart Month? It’s a great time to take notice of the health of your heart, says Drs. John Rottschalk, Philip Acker, Angela Froidcoeur . Cardiovascular disease remains American's number one killer, according to the American Heart Association. Studies have shown a correlation between gum disease and heart disease, underscoring the importance of good oral health care.

Visiting our office on a regular basis can help prevent gum disease or at least catch it in its early stages. And because people with dental insurance are more likely to visit their dentist when they should, a healthy mouth begins with a visit to Dr. John Rottschalk Dental Group. In observance of Heart Month, Drs. John Rottschalk, Philip Acker, Angela Froidcoeur says it’s also important to know your numbers: blood pressure (less than 120/80), cholesterol (less than 200) and BMI (less than 25). If you have any questions about heart health, or about your treatment at Dr. John Rottschalk Dental Group, please give us a call today.

Dr. Rottschalk and team, celebrating National Dental Health Month

January 31st, 2012


Did you know that February, which is almost here, marks National Dental Health Month? It's a great time of the year to renew those resolutions about continuing to practice great dental hygiene at home and by visiting Dr. John Rottschalk Dental Group. Today, we thought we'd discuss the importance of preventative oral care. While most people are familiar with traditional heart-saving practices such as eating healthy and exercising regularly, lesser-known are the benefits that great oral hygiene provides to one’s cardiovascular health.

Here are a few tips to help you continue those New Year's resolutions:

*Remember that poor oral hygiene is linked to serious common diseases such as cardiovascular disease, bacterial pneumonia and osteoporosis.

*Brush and floss every day to remove the plaque that can lead to cavities. Flossing daily removes food debris that your toothbrush cannot reach after meals.

*Replace your toothbrush on a regular basis. You should replace your toothbrush every three to four months or after a cold or illness to prevent re-infection. Remember to use a soft toothbrush so you won’t wear off the enamel of your teeth.

*Visit our Fairview Heights office regularly. The American Dental Association recommends you visit us every six months for regular checkups and cleanings. Fluoride treatments twice a year will help prevent tooth decay.

Each February, Dr. Rottschalk and our team focus on the preventive oral care of our patients. Have you visited our office the past six months? If not, it’s time to give us a call and schedule an appointment!

Ask Drs. John Rottschalk, Philip Acker, Angela Froidcoeur : If I have braces, do I still need a dental checkup every 6 months?

January 24th, 2012

Thanks for the question! Yes! In fact, it's even more important that patients receiving orthodontic treatment visit our office regularly. When you're wearing braces, food may be caught in places that your toothbrush normally can't reach. This causes bacteria to build up and can lead to cavities, gingivitis and even gum disease. Believe it or not, an estimated 80 percent of American adults currently have some form of gum disease. Studies have shown a correlation between gum disease and heart disease, underscoring the importance of good oral health care. Our staff at Dr. Rottschalk Dental Group will work closely with your orthodontist to make sure that your teeth stay clean and healthy while you're undergoing orthodontic treatment.

If it has been more than six months since your last visit to our Fairview Heights office, please give us a call!

Access your account—anywhere, any day, any time!

January 9th, 2012


Access to your account, 24/7. Sounds simple and convenient, doesn’t it?

Patients at Dr. John Rottschalk Dental Group enjoy access to their account 24 hours a day, seven days a week—all through our website. You can look up your appointments and all of your account details at your convenience, all from the comfort of your own home! You can even receive appointment reminders through email or text messages!

You, too, may sign up for this convenient service on our website by clicking on the "Patient Login" button on our homepage. Please give us a call if you have any questions about getting started!

Happy Monday!

What is your New Year’s Resolution?

January 3rd, 2012

Many folks in Fairview Heights consider the beginning of a new year a time to not only reflect on the year that was, but also to set personal goals for the upcoming year. How are you planning to improve your health and happiness in 2012? Drs. John Rottschalk, Philip Acker, Angela Froidcoeur and our team recommend that you make a New Year’s resolution to benefit your oral health!

It is important that New Year’s resolutions are reasonable and attainable, and that they improve your overall quality of life—for example, did you know that flossing every day is the very best way to prevent periodontal, or gum, disease? Using a straw when drinking sugary beverages can also help prevent cavities. There are many small steps that you can take to prevent cavities, oral infections and bad breath.

Be sure to give us a call if you need a few suggestions on ways to improve your oral health—we want to hear from you! After all, we know your oral health is about more than just a beautiful smile.

Happy New Year!

—Your friends at Dr. John Rottschalk Dental Group

This Year, Make a New Year’s Resolution to Smile About!

December 27th, 2011

Let’s face it- when was the last time you managed to keep a New Year’s resolution? We at Dr. John Rottschalk Dental Group believe the key to sticking to a goal is picking one that is both reasonable and attainable. If you haven’t yet picked a New Year’s resolution, consider setting one that will improve your oral health!
For example, resolve to brush twice and floss once a day. Good oral hygiene only takes a few minutes a day, and can make a big difference in your oral health and overall health too! For more oral health-themed resolutions for you and your family, check out this article.
We would love to see what you come up with, share with us by commenting on this post or on our Facebook page. Whatever your New Year’s Resolution, we wish you the very best for 2012!

-Happy New Year, from your friends at Dr. John Rottschalk Dental Group

Beware of those Christmas goodies!

December 14th, 2011

Maintaining a healthy diet over the holiday season can prove a difficult task. After all, who can resist the tasty treats of Christmas? With grandma and everybody else offering you candy, chocolate logs or Christmas pudding, you just can’t say “I’ll pass” each time. But trouble lurks: every time you chow down on that chocolate or candy, the bacteria in your mouth have a feast on the sugar—at your expense.  The sugar turns into acid, and the acid eats away at the enamel on your teeth. Then, you start getting cavities.

Instead, our friends at the American Dental Association recommend nuts or dried fruit, which are a nice alternative to sugars and have a greater nutritional value—and can satisfy your sweet tooth! Both nuts and fruit are a great source of fiber and act as an appetite suppressant. In addition, nuts are a great source of Vitamin E, Vitamin B6 and Vitamin B9, nutrients that contribute to a healthy immune system. Nuts are also a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, which have been linked with reducing heart disease and lower blood pressure.

If you must indulge in chocolaty goodness this Christmas or holiday season, remember to brush your teeth after eating sugary treats. Hope this helps! Give us a call if you have any questions!

-          Drs. John Rottschalk, Philip Acker, Angela Froidcoeur and team

Do we have your current contact info?

November 30th, 2011

Happy holidays from all of us at Dr. Rottschalk Dental Group! As you probably know, you can always connect with  Drs. John Rottschalk, Philip Acker, Angela Froidcoeur and our team on our Facebook page, but we also encourage you to call us and let us know if you have any new phone numbers or if your contact information has changed!

Please contact our office with any updates to phone numbers and addresses, so that we may be able to reach you. Thank you!

-          The team at Dr. Rottschalk Dental Group

REMINDER: Don’t throw those insurance benefits away!

November 21st, 2011


Happy Monday! Dr. Rottschalk and our staff would once again like to give those patients with flex spend, health savings, or insurance benefits a friendly end of the year reminder that it’s high time to schedule your dental visit so that you may optimize your benefits.

Please call our Fairview Heights dental office at your convenience to make an appointment. If you have used all your insurance benefits or do not have dental insurance at this time, we will create a plan to help you achieve your dental needs. Space is limited and we tend to get busy around holiday season, so don’t wait to give us a call! We want you to have the best dental care and the healthiest teeth while getting the most out of your insurance benefits.

See you soon! Happy Thanksgiving!

What are your November plans?

November 8th, 2011

Believe it or not, we’re almost in full holiday mode! But before you go celebrating, Drs. John Rottschalk, Philip Acker, Angela Froidcoeur and our team at Dr. John Rottschalk Dental Group want to know: What are your plans for November? Do you have plans for Thanksgiving? Are you planning a winter vacation? If so, we’d love to hear all about it!
You may share your stories with us below, or by posting on our Facebook page!

–The team at Dr. John Rottschalk Dental Group

The importance of oral cancer screenings, from Dr. Rottschalk Dental Group

November 2nd, 2011

We hope everyone is off to a great week! Visiting Dr. Rottschalk Dental Group on a regular basis will not only help keep your teeth and mouth healthy, but will also help keep the rest of your body healthy as well. The fact is, every hour of every day in the U.S., someone dies of oral cancer, which is the sixth-most common diagnosed form of the disease. The five-year survival rate is only 50 percent, and oral cancer is one of the few cancers whose survival rate has not improved. Today, we would like to take this opportunity to remind all of our patients about the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene.

As your dentists, Drs. John Rottschalk, Philip Acker, and Angela Froidcoeur are specialists who work to diagnose, treat, and prevent oral health problems. Please let us now if you have any questions about your oral health during your next appointment. Take care of your teeth, and smile bright!

What do your teeth say about your health?

October 25th, 2011


At Dr. John Rottschalk Dental Group, we know your dental health is closely connected to your overall health. We also know the mouth can oftentimes be the first place to indicate signs of health issues in the body. Recently, we found a helpful article that outlined seven warning signs that indicate it might be time to check in with Drs. John Rottschalk, Philip Acker, and Angela Froidcoeur.

Flat, worn teeth plus headache (sign of stress)

Grind, grind, grind …. grind. If you live with a teeth grinder, you’re probably familiar with this unpleasant sound. Emotional or psychological stress can definitely contribute to teeth grinding. In addition, headaches, which are caused by spasms in the muscles, can radiate from the mouth and head down to the neck and upper back. Night guards, which we proudly provide at our Fairview Heights dental office, may relieve the symptoms, as well as protect your teeth.

Cracking, crumbling teeth (sign of Gastroesophageal reflux disease)

As we age we may notice that the enamel on our teeth starts to chip at the edges of our front teeth or form hollowed out “wells” on the surface of our molars. These symptoms may be a sign of gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, which is a chronic digestive disease that occurs when stomach acid—and occasionally, bile—flows back into your food pipe. Other signs and symptoms of GERD include acid reflux, dry mouth and heartburn.

Sores that won’t go away (sign of oral cancer)

More than 21,000 men and 9,000 women are diagnosed with oral cancer annually, according to the National Cancer Institute. Those most affected include the elderly (most are over the age of 60) and smokers. The survival rate for oral cancer is 35 percent. When an open sore in the mouth doesn’t go away within a week or two, or when you experience unexplained bleeding or numbness, it’s always a good idea to visit Dr. John Rottschalk Dental Group so that we may rule out oral cancer. A lot of sores and ulcers may lurk underneath your tongue, where they are difficult to find.

Gums growing over teeth (sign of medication problems)

If you notice your gum growing over your tooth, and you’re taking a prescribed or other medication, please give us a call as soon as possible. Certain medications may cause the gums to overgrow; the dosage will need to be adjusted, but it’s important we take a look.

Dry mouth (sign of Sjogren’s syndrome, diabetes)

Many things are known to cause dry mouth, but a lack of sufficient saliva is also an early warning of Sjogren’s syndrome, as well as diabetes. According to the American Diabetes Association, 17 million Americans suffer from type 1 or type 2 diabetes, which is a metabolic disease caused by high blood sugar. Other signs of diabetes include excessive thirst, tingling in the hands or feet, frequent urination, blurred vision and weight loss.

Sjogren’s syndrome, which affects approximately anywhere between 1-to-4 million Americans, causes white blood cells of the body attack—for unknown reasons—their moisture-producing glands. Symptoms also include dry eyes, as well as the mouth, but the rest of the body is affected by the disorder.

White webbing inside cheeks (sign of Lichen planus)

Lichen planus, whose cause is unknown, is an inflammatory skin disease that usually affects the skin, mouth, or both, according to the Mayo Clinic. On the skin it manifests with small purplish bumps while in the mouth it takes the appearance of a whitish, lacy pattern on the insides of the cheeks. The disease can’t be passed from one person to another. Lichen planus may require relatively simple at-home care or no treatment. When symptoms are severe, such as pain or significant itching, please give us a call.

Crusting dentures (sign of pneumonia)

Older folks are known to inhale debris around the teeth and dentures, and inadvertently breathe in other materials into the lungs and airway, causing dangerous (even fatal) inflammation. Be sure to remove and wash dentures on a regular basis.

Now Open Saturdays!

October 19th, 2011

We are happy to announce our office will now be open most Saturdays.

So if you're just too busy on weekdays, you can now see us on Saturdays! Give us a call at (618) 624-3838 to set up an appointment today, or visit our website. Drs. John Rottschalk, Philip Acker, Angela Froidcoeur and team look forward to seeing you.

5 tips to avoid plaque, from Dr. John Rottschalk Dental Group

October 12th, 2011

At Dr. John Rottschalk Dental Group, we know nobody likes getting plaque on their teeth. Here are five other ways you can avoid that dreaded enemy of the teeth, courtesy of WebMD.

Let’s start with brushing regularly. Brushing your teeth twice a day with a fluoride-containing toothpaste is vital to a healthy mouth. Make sure you softly brush all the surfaces of your teeth.

Next on the list is flossing daily: a simple daily flossing between teeth clears away plaque before it can cause damage and can also clean plaque at the gum line. Plaque is known to reach the spaces between teeth.

Also, evading a trip to visit Drs. John Rottschalk, Philip Acker, or Angela Froidcoeur is probably not a great idea. Let’s say you brush and floss daily. You’re still at risk for plaque. With time, the plaque hardens and turns into tartar. Consider visiting Dr. John Rottschalk Dental Group at least twice a year or as recommended, and you have a lower chance of getting cavities or losing your natural teeth.

You’ll also want to stop avoiding those fruits and veggies. Believe it or not, there are foods out there that play a key role in keeping plaque off our teeth. They include apples, carrots, cucumbers and other raw fruits and vegetables. You can still eat these types of fruits and veggies if you’re wearing braces, but be sure to cut them up into bite sized pieces to avoid breaking off brackets.

Finally, before you pick up that candy bar, remember to not give in to your sweet tooth. Consuming sugary drinks or eating candy or other junk food allows sugar to stick to our teeth. The bacteria, then, becomes plaque, which turns into acid and damages our teeth. Avoiding these five bad habits keeps your plaque in check and your mouth as healthy as can be. If you have any questions, visit our website’s oral hygiene page, give us a call or ask us on Facebook!

Smile! October is National Dental Hygiene Month!

October 4th, 2011


Did you know that October is National Dental Hygiene Month? For our team at Dr. John Rottschalk Dental Group, that means only one thing: Reminding you that your teeth are an important part of your body, and keeping them clean helps keep your mouth and your body healthy. By taking care of your teeth, eating a balanced diet and visiting our office on a regular basis, you can have healthy teeth and an attractive smile throughout your entire life.

We encourage you to check out the official National Dental Hygiene Month website as well, which provides pointers on keeping your mouth clean and healthy. Lastly, has it been six months since your last visit at our convenient Fairview Heights office? If the answer is yes, we encourage you to give us a call to set up an appointment!

See you soon! Enjoy the rest of the week!

Ask Dr. Rottschalk: What, exactly, is a root canal?

September 29th, 2011

At Dr. Rottschalk Dental Group we know one thing no patient likes hearing when visiting our office is “root canal.” But what, exactly, is a root canal, and when might you need one? A root canal is a treatment Dr. Rottschalk and team use to repair and save a tooth that is infected or badly decayed to the point where the nerve is involved. In the past, if a patient had a tooth with a diseased nerve, dentists in most cases would recommend an extraction. Today, however, with a procedure called root canal therapy, available at our office, you may save that tooth—and your beautiful smile—after all!

Here are some symptoms that indicate a decayed or infected tooth, courtesy of WebMD:

• Severe toothache pain upon chewing, biting or application of pressure
• One tooth consistently more sensitive to hot or cold than other teeth
• Pain that hurts without any stimulus, keeps you awake or wakes you up at night
• A tooth that feels loose
• Discoloration (a darkening) of the tooth
• Pain that persists weeks following a filling or replacement of a filling
• Chronic pain and/or pressure that may extend to the ear, eye or neck

If any of these symptoms apply to you, we recommend you schedule an appointment with Dr. Rottschalk, Dr. Acker or Dr. Froidcoeur.

The best way to avoid a root canal is to practice good oral hygiene at home, and that includes brushing at least twice a day and flossing to reduce plaque and bacteria. For more tips on how to avoid root canal therapy or for general questions about your dental treatment, we invite you to ask Dr. Rottschalk during your next visit at our convenient Fairview Heights dental office! We also invite you to ask us on Facebook!

Don't throw your insurance benefits away! From Dr. Rottschalk

September 12th, 2011


Happy Monday! Dr. Rottschalk and our staff would like to give those patients with flex spend, health savings, or insurance benefits a friendly end of the year reminder that it’s high time to schedule your dental visit so that you may optimize your benefits.

Please call our Fairview Heights dental office at your convenience to make an appointment. If you have used all your insurance benefits or do not have dental insurance at this time, we will create a plan to help you achieve your dental needs. Space is limited and we tend to get busy around holiday season, so don’t wait to give us a call! We want you to have the best dental care and the healthiest teeth while getting the most out of your insurance benefits.

See you soon!

20 things that can ruin your smile, from Dr. Rottschalk

September 5th, 2011


At Dr. Rottschalk Dental Group, we know your smile is important. And we know you want to keep it sparkling and looking its very best. Recently, we came across an article that suggests at least 20 things can ruin that perfect smile you have.

These include:

- Sports drinks
- Bottled water
- Tobacco
- Wine
- Soft drinks
- Citrus and acidic foods

Drs. Rottschalk, Acker, Froidcoeur and our team encourage you to read the rest of the article and ask us here on our blog or during your next visit to our convenient Fairview Heights office. For more tips or for general questions about your ongoing dental treatment, we invite you to ask us during your next visit! We also invite you to ask us on Facebook!

Dental fun facts!

August 29th, 2011

Happy Monday! Everyone loves fun facts and dental tips. Fun, fun, fun! Dr. Rottschalk and our team at Dr. John Rottschalk Dental Group came across these dental fun facts last week and thought you might enjoy!

• The second most common disease in the United States is cavities. The first is the common cold.
• There are almost 9,000 accidental pockings and piercings with toothpicks per year.
• X-rays may be an effective tool in preventing strokes.
• A child will have 20 baby teeth by the time he or she is 2 years old. Through childhood, kids gradually lose baby teeth and grow 32 permanent teeth, including wisdom teeth.
• According to consumer reports, dentists are among the 5 most trusted professionals in the United States.
• Approximately $2 billion a year is spent on dental products like toothpastes, mouthwashes and dental floss.
• The average American spends about 38 days brushing teeth over his or her lifetime.
• Kids in North America spend half a billion dollars per year on chewing gum.
• Approximately 94 percent of Americans say they brush nightly while only 81 percent say they brush first thing in the morning.
• Grand Rapids, MI was the first American city to fluoridate its water.
• Earliest record of a toothbrush was found in Chinese literature about 1600 AD
• The natural bristles of early toothbrushes were taken from the necks and shoulders of swine, especially pigs living in colder climates like Siberia and China.

Lastly, has it been at least six months since your last checkup? If the answer is yes, we encourage you to give us a call!

Ask Dr. Rottschalk: What’s the deal with coffee and tea?

August 22nd, 2011

At Dr. Rottschalk Dental Group we know most folks enjoy a hot-brewed coffee or tea in the morning, followed by a cola (or more coffee) in the afternoon. But what many don’t know is that both coffee and tea are especially tough on your teeth, because tannic acid (the substance that makes the dark color) etches into the pits and grooves of tooth enamel, and can stain your pearly whites brown.

So, if you can't give up that morning cup o’joe, what can you do? Dr. Rottschalk and team suggest rinsing with a glass of water after every cup. If you enjoy iced coffee or tea, drink your beverage with a straw so that tannins don’t make contact with your front upper and lower teeth. Even if you’re not a big coffee drinker, we encourage you to swish and swallow some water at the end of each meal. Water, after all, helps neutralize acids left in your mouth after eating and also reduces cavity-causing bacteria.

Dr. Rottschalk and our staff also invite you to visit our convenient Fairview Heights office for whitening options. We can help bleach your teeth with proven and professional products. To learn more about whitening options at our office, please visit our website, ask us on Facebook or give us a call!

When you need immediate dental care, we’re here for you.

August 8th, 2011


At Dr. John Rottschalk Dental Group, we know dental emergencies are never convenient or timely. If you are a patient of record, we are committed to your dental health and are more than willing to see you.

We are here to help you, any time, any day, and when your dental health is at risk, we’ll do everything we can to make sure that you’re treated as soon as possible. While dental emergencies are rare, we know they can happen at any moment, and it’s important to know how to take care of your teeth no matter what.

Common dental emergencies include:

• A bitten lip or tongue
• Broken or cracked tooth/teeth
• Broken jaw
• Permanent tooth that has been knocked out
• Object caught between teeth
• Severe toothache

If you have a dental emergency after regular office hours, please give us a call. If you are calling us after hours, please follow the emergency prompts to contact Drs. John Rottschalk, Philip Acker, and Angela Froidcoeur. We hope you’re all enjoying your summer.

Your gum health and overall health, from Dr. Rottschalk

July 25th, 2011


Don’t put off your next visit any longer! As we’ve shared in previous blog posts, oral health issues have been increasingly linked to other health concerns, such as heart disease. Cardiovascular disease remains American's number one killer, claiming more lives than the rest of major causes of death, according to the American Heart Association. Believe it or not, an estimated 80 percent of American adults currently have some form of gum disease. Studies have shown a correlation between gum disease and heart disease, underscoring the importance of good oral health care.

Studies are also beginning to suggest that patients, especially those with periodontal disease, are believed to have an elevated risk of heart attack and stroke. Since most patients are not regularly visiting a heart specialist, their regular visits to Dr. John Rottschalk Dental Group can help detect early warning signs of heart issues, prevent gum disease or at least catch it in its early stages. We’d also like you to know your numbers: blood pressure (less than 120/80), cholesterol (less than 200) and BMI (less than 25).

Additionally, if it’s been more than six months since your last visit to our Fairview Heights office, please give us a call!

Ask Dr. Rottschalk: What’s the deal with sour candy?

July 18th, 2011


Thanks for the question. At Dr. John Rottschalk Dental Group we understand sour candy is a part of any respectable goodie bag. But while sour candy can be delicious, they are arguably as unhealthy for your teeth as sweet candy. The reason is, sour candies tend to be very acidic, and are capable of burning your cheeks and gums while wearing down the enamel on your teeth.

In 2008, the Minnesota Dental Association released a study which suggested the amount of acid in sour candies may eat away at tooth enamel and cause cavities. Drs. Rottschalk, Acker and Froidcoeur would like to remind you that if you should experience a craving for sour candies this summer, please:

1. Remember to rinse your mouth with water immediately after consuming candy, drink milk, or eat a couple pieces of cheese.

2. Do not brush immediately after consuming sour candy. The candy’s acidic nature tends to soften tooth enamel. Brushing your teeth can mean abrading the enamel.

3. Limit the amount of sour candies that you consume on a daily basis. If you do indulge, remember not to suck or chew on sour candies for long periods of time.

If tooth erosion has already begun, ask Dr. Rottschalk or our team about ways to reduce sensitivity and continue to protect your teeth. Let us know if you have any questions!

Are you wearing your mouthguard this summer?

July 6th, 2011


With summer in full force, and our staff at Dr. John Rottschalk Dental Group thought today would be a great time to remind all our young athletes in treatment to take care of both their mouth and appliances while participating in sports - especially contact sports - this summer.

Only by using a mouth guard can kids with and without braces avoid serious sports injuries. The next time you're in for a visit with Dr. Rottschalk, Acker, and Froidcoeur, we encourage you to ask us for a mouth guard! In addition, here are five quick tips for keeping yourself or your kids safe during sport activities this summer.

• Wear a helmet
• Stretch before and after a game or practice
• Wear protective eyewear
• Wear a face shield to avoid scratched or bruised skin
• Be observant, even as a spectator

We hope you're enjoying your summer, and invite you all to share your summer photos on our Facebook page!

Bad breath got you down?

May 31st, 2011

Dr. John Rottschalk and our team recognize that many of our patients are concerned about bad breath, or halitosis. While some cases of bad breath are persistent (chronic bad breath), generally bad breath is transient, and can be prevented.

We recently came across this helpful video about bad breath and thought it was worth sharing with our patients. The video explains what might cause bad breath and some ways that it can be avoided. In most instances, bad breath can be prevented by practicing common oral hygiene techniques that you have probably heard us emphasize during a visit to Dr. John Rottschalk Dental Group, such as brushing and flossing daily. We encourage you to watch this video for additional tips on how to keep bad breath at bay.

Call us at (618) 624-3838 to schedule your appointment! Or, if you have any questions, ask us on Facebook!

Is your child afraid of visiting the dentist?

May 23rd, 2011

Drs. Rottschalk, Acker, and Froidcoeur know a lot of children fear going to the dentist, and this morning, we found a great article on how to help your child overcome fears of visiting our office, courtesy of our friends at WebMD.

Serving Fairview Heights and surrounding communities, it is our goal to make your child’s first dental experience a positive one. Whether it’s a simple checkup or restorative care, Dr. Rottschalk and our experienced team provide comprehensive gentle dental care in a comfortable and welcoming environment. In fact, most of our patients look forward to their next visit! Schedule an appointment at our convenient Fairview Heights office by calling (618) 624-3838, and we’ll see you soon! Happy Monday!

What are patients saying about Dr. John Rottschalk Dental Group?

May 16th, 2011


Dr. John Rottschalk and team, serving Fairview Heights and surrounding areas, deliver the highest quality dental care in a personalized environment. We make dental treatment fun and enjoyable. Just see what our patients have to say about our office!

"The Best Dentist Without a doubt, Doctor Rottschalk is by FAR the best dentist I have ever been to! (and I've had dentists in Kentucky, Oklahoma, Arkansas and another area of Illinois.) Absolutely, I recommend Dr. John Rottschalk and his staff."

"Great Group I have been seen by the group where Dr. John Rottschalk worked with Ellen Bollmeier, prior to his new practice. I have continued to be seen by the same group working now for John. I have over 13 years of good recommendations for John and his team"‎

"Caring and compassionate. An added bonus is Dr. Bollmeier's husband is a vet next door so I would drop off my pets for service and get my teeth cleaned all in one visit. That's what I call convenience"‎

"Great Dentist - One of the best I have ever been to and I have been to dentist in New Mexico, Texas, Washington, Wisconsin, and Mississippi."

What puts you at ease at our office?

May 9th, 2011

Dr. Rottschalk and our team at Dr. John Rottschalk Dental Group understand not everyone is thrilled to see their dentist. But we strive to bring you the best and most comforting experience at each visit. We’d like to know: What is it about our Fairview Heights that makes you comfortable or puts you at ease? Is it something about our pleasant environment? Our friendly staff? Is it something about Drs. Rottschalk, Acker or Froidcoeur?

Let us know by posting here or on our Facebook page! We'd love your thoughts!

We hope all you moms had a terrific Mother's Day!

Access your account—anywhere, any day, any time!

March 29th, 2011


Access to your account, 24/7. Sounds simple and convenient, doesn’t it?

Patients at Dr. John Rottschalk Dental Group enjoy access to their account 24 hours a day, seven days a week—all through our website. You can look up your appointments and all of your account details at your convenience, all from the comfort of your own home! You can even receive appointment reminders through email or text messages!

You, too, may sign up for this convenient service on our website by clicking on the "Patient Login" button on our homepage. Please give us a call if you have any questions about getting started!

How do you know if you have periodontal disease?

March 14th, 2011

Our experienced staff at Rottschalk Dental Group are committed to excellent dentistry and have years of experience creating beautiful smiles and healthy mouths. Our doctors will tell you one of the most important steps to improving the care of your gums is recognizing the warning signs for periodontal disease, also known as gum disease.

These can include:

• Gums that appear red or swollen
• Gums that feel tender
• Gums that bleed easily (during brushing or flossing)
• Gums that recede or pull away from the teeth
• Persistent halitosis, or bad breath
• Loose teeth
• Any change in the way teeth come together in the biting position

Our friends at the American Academy of Periodontology created a helpful self assessment test that can help you determine what your risk is at home. Early detection is critical to avoiding serious and costly dental problems. Of course, the best way to know for sure what the health of your teeth and gums is would be a visit to our Fairview Heights, IL office.

Please feel free to contact our Fairview Heights dental office to schedule an appointment with one of our friendly doctors. We can’t wait to welcome you into our dental family! Call today.