Frequently Asked Questions

What makes DeAngelo Dental of Homer Glen different than any other dental offices?

A lot of things. First, we complete a Comprehensive Examination of not just your teeth but of yours gums, supporting bone and other oral tissues. A complete series of x-rays are done to do a complete diagnosis. Not having x-rays is like looking into a dark room with the lights turned off -- you can tell what some things are but see no detail. We then show you with our intraoral camera everything that is going on so you have a better understanding of what is happening in your mouth. Cosmetic, Smile Makeover and Rehabilitative Dentistry patients will have a complete series of photographs taken of their teeth so we can better explain treatment, as well. You'll also notice the doctor's thoroughness and attention to detail.

From there, we create a customized treatment plan that is designed around you and your lifestyle. In this plan, we consider not only good looks but the stability of your bite and structure and function of your jaw.

Finally, we treat you with high quality cosmetic, periodontal and restorative services in a state-of-the-art facility that includes the latest equipment, maintained in exceptional cleanliness, and manned by a highly trained and exceptionally gifted staff. To truly know what makes us different, we suggest that you stop in and see us.

What can I expect at my first appointment?

Your first appointment will us get to know you and your dental health so we can properly meet all of your dental needs. You’ll first be examined by one of our specially-trained hygienists, and then they’ll take a number of x-rays as well as perform a periodontal (gum) exam. From there, you’ll get to meet Dr. DeAngelo, and he’ll ask about any pressing concerns you have before performing a more thorough exam that also includes an oral cancer screening. With all of this information gathered, they’ll both come up with a treatment plan designed just for you. They’ll offer you a multitude of options and let you ask as many questions as you like. After that, you’ll be escorted to the front desk to discuss your payment options and schedule your next appointment.

Why is a Periodontal Examination important?

Research has found that the periodontium (the gum and bone tissue that support your teeth) are of the utmost importance. After all, you would not build a home on a shaky foundation, would you? Of course not! It is only with a healthy periodontal foundation that your teeth can be restored properly. Any high-quality dental office will do the needed periodontal probing and charting to assess your gum health and track it throughout your life. Periodontal Disease is a Chronic Inflammatory Disease or a low-grade infection of long-standing duration. The bacteria that form this disease cause inflamed gum tissue. The byproducts of this infection can actually dissolve the underlying jawbone. Unfortunately, many dental offices do not address this issue and many patients have lost half of their bone or more by the time they see Dr. DeAngelo and his staff.

It has also been found that unhealthy, infected gums and supporting bone can lead to not only loose or lost teeth but many systemic diseases and maladies. These include bacterial plaques from your gum line accumulating in your coronary (heart) arteries, and cerebral (brain) arteries leading to a higher incidence of heart attack and stroke. Gum disease has also been linked to diabetes, pancreatic cancer, osteoporosis, low birth weight and premature babies in women and some research points to it having a link to Alzheimer's disease.

What is Laser Periodontal Therapy

The great thing about using a Laser in Periodontal Therapy is that it not only leaves the targeted area of the gum line close to being sterilized, by the process called Laser Bacterial Reduction(LBR), but it also removes dead or badly infected tissue leaving only healthy tissue behind. Systemic or local drugs do not remove this tissue which allows it to remain in place to cause more damage. Dr. DeAngelo and his staff have received specialized training in Laser Periodontal Therapy.

How does my insurance work?

Dental insurance works a little differently than standard medical insurance in that it is more focused on helping people afford preventive services rather than treatments after problems pop up. That’s why, with most plans, treatments like checkups and cleanings are covered more than fillings, crowns, and bridges. While we accept all regular dental insurance plans, our focus will be on providing you be the best care possible, which isn’t always what insurance covers. However, the higher-quality care you get will mean you will need less over time, which is ideal for both your smile and your wallet.

I want my front teeth to look better but I do not want braces. What do you recommend?

In most cases, "Instant Orthodontics" can be achieved in a matter of weeks with porcelain veneers or porcelain crowns. If it is the metal orthodontic brackets that you do not like, we offer Invisalign braces, a series of clear retainers that straighten your teeth without the use of metal wires and brackets.

Why do some people have black lines at their gum line when they have crowns?

There are many varieties of crowns, they are made with different materials and are of all price ranges. All porcelain crowns or porcelain fused to metal crowns that have a porcelain butt margin will not have the black lines that you object to. Speaking of crowns and veneers, many dental offices are sending their laboratory work overseas for bargain basement prices and cheap construction. Dr. DeAngelo uses only the finest materials and labs in the USA for his restorations. There is no scrimping on the quality that he delivers to his patients. As a matter of fact, Dr. DeAngelo does all of his preparations with a minimum of 3X magnification, uses electric constant torque handpieces that leave the preparations smooth and closely scrutinizes the impressions for accuracy. This leads to crowns that have not only great aesthetics but excellent fit and seal, as well. For front teeth that demand exquisite aesthetics, 5X magnification is used to finish the preparations.

Do you accept referrals?

Yes, we do. The highest compliment that you can give us is to refer your friends, family, and co-workers to our office.