General Dentistry in Chicago, IL

Discover Affordable Family Dentistry Near You

Imagine a smile that feels as good as it looks – a smile that allows you to enjoy every meal, speak with clarity, and laugh with genuine confidence. This isn’t just a dream; it’s the foundation of the general dentistry care we provide at Contos Smile Center. If you’re seeking a dental home where your comfort and oral well-being are paramount, you’ve found it with our top dentist in Chicago, Dr. Contos.

We believe everyone deserves a healthy, happy smile, and our team is ready to help you achieve yours. To schedule your first visit, call our Chicago dental office at (773) 973-0531. We welcome new patients from the vibrant neighborhoods of Lincoln Park, Lakeview, and Old Town.

New to Chicago? Consider Contos Smile Center for Dentistry Near You!

At Contos Smile Center, we understand the importance of feeling settled and cared for. Our practice is conveniently located to serve various Chicago neighborhoods, making your search for “dentistry near me” simple. Dr. Contos and our friendly team are here to provide comprehensive general dental care, ensuring your oral health remains a priority as you explore all that Chicago has to offer – from catching a Cubs game at Wrigleyville to enjoying the art at the Art Institute of Chicago.

Ready to schedule your first visit? Give us a call at (773) 973-0531. We’re eager to welcome you to the Contos Smile Center family and help you maintain a healthy smile in your new Chicago home. Discover key patient information or tour our office online!

What is General Dentistry?

General dentistry is the primary foundation of oral healthcare, serving as the first line of defense for your teeth, gums, and mouth. Think of it as the general practitioner for your oral health. A general dentist in Chicago, like Dr. Contos, is trained to diagnose, prevent, and treat a wide array of oral conditions, focusing on the overall health and functionality of your smile. Additionally, porcelain veneers, crafted from durable, high-quality materials, are among the advanced solutions offered to enhance your smile.

The Importance of Routine General Dental Care

Many people understand the importance of regular medical check-ups, and the same principle applies, with equal significance, to your oral health. Neglecting routine dental care can lead to a cascade of problems, impacting both your mouth and your entire body.

Here’s why consistent general dental care is so important:

Early Detection and Prevention: This is arguably the most significant benefit. Regular check-ups allow your dentist to spot small issues, like a tiny cavity or the early signs of gum inflammation, before they become significant and painful problems. Addressing these issues early means simpler, less invasive, and often less costly treatments.
Prevents Oral Diseases: Routine cleanings remove plaque and tartar buildup that even the most diligent brushing and flossing might miss. This buildup is the primary cause of cavities and gum disease. By removing it regularly, you significantly reduce your risk of developing these common oral ailments.
Protects Your Overall Health: The connection between oral and systemic health is well-established. Oral infections and inflammation can have far-reaching effects on your body.
Preserves Your Natural Teeth: The ultimate goal of general dentistry is to help you keep your natural teeth for a lifetime. By preventing decay, treating infections, and maintaining gum health, routine care significantly reduces the need for tooth extractions and extensive tooth replacement procedures like dentures or dental implants.
Maintains a Confident Smile: Addressing issues like bad breath, cavities, or gum disease improves the aesthetics of your smile and boosts your self-esteem, allowing you to interact with others without hesitation.
Routine Preventive Care: We offer routine cleanings and preventive care like fluoride treatments and sealants to further protect your oral health.

Our General Dentistry Services in Chicago

Preventive Care

Preventive dental care is essential for a healthy smile. This includes biannual dental cleanings and exams, which allow Dr. Contos to evaluate your smile for underlying issues as well as remove harmful plaque and bacteria. The best way to protect your oral health is through prevention, and our dental team is ready to help you do just that.

Children’s Dentistry

Did you know that the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that a child see a dentist as soon as their first tooth appears? Our pediatric dentist in Chicago offers expert children’s dentistry services to our youngest patients. Dr. Contos will ensure your child is comfortable during their visit and help them create long-lasting oral hygiene habits.

Advanced Dental Technology

We’re proud to feature advanced dental care technology at our Chicago, IL, office. These resources allow us to streamline our dental services and provide you with an exceptional dental experience. From specialized dental lasers to 3D scanners, our state-of-the-art dental practice is well-equipped to create an accurate treatment plan for all patients.

Mouth Guards

Mouth guards are a must-have for patients who partake in sports, especially high-contact sports like hockey or football. Customized mouth guards from Contos Smile Center help protect your teeth, lips, chin, and more from potential physical trauma that can harm your oral health.

We also offer night guards for patients who grind or clench their teeth at night. Also known as bruxism, teeth grinding can lead to a host of dental complications if not treated right away. Our personalized night guards can protect your teeth while you sleep, offering you a comfortable, non-intrusive solution. Additionally, teeth whitening results can boost confidence and enhance smiles, making it a popular choice for those looking to improve their appearance.

Dental Sealants

Dental sealants are thin coatings applied to your teeth’s surfaces to shield them against cavities and harmful bacteria. While usually recommended for children, patients of all ages can benefit from tooth sealants. Sealants are made of discreet composite resin and require little preparation beforehand.

TMJ Treatment

If you’re struggling with frequent jaw pain, it may be a sign of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder. Our TMJ dentists in Chicago, IL will determine the root cause of your pain and may recommend oral surgery to find the solution that works best for you and your unique case. We offer various TMD treatments, such as muscle relaxants, occlusal appliances, or physical therapy.

Periodontal Treatment

The condition of your gums has a significant impact on the health of your teeth, which is why our dentist may recommend periodontal treatment depending on how infected your gums are. Periodontal (gum) disease can take a toll on oral health, leading to further complications if left untreated. Our dental professionals can help reverse the effects of gum disease before it has a chance to progress. Dental care is a lifelong necessity, and maintaining healthy gums is a critical part of that journey.

Sleep Apnea Treatment

Sleep apnea can make it difficult to carry out your daily activities, causing dizziness, grogginess, or daytime exhaustion. Our Chicago sleep dentist can measure the severity of your sleep disorder and determine the best treatment for your individual needs. We offer CPAP therapy, oral appliances, and even upper airway surgery for more severe cases.

Tooth Extractions

If your tooth is severely decayed or irreparably damaged, Dr. Contos may decide that a tooth extraction is the best course of action to save the rest of your smile. Removing teeth that can’t be treated with a restorative procedure is beneficial for your oral health. We’ve performed painless, stress-free extractions for countless patients and have helped them take the steps toward a restored smile.

Root Canal Treatment

Root canal therapy has earned a bad reputation for being a painful procedure, but this isn’t the case. Root canal treatments help stop painful symptoms and prevent further complications with your smile. Our Chicago dentist will painlessly access and remove the infected pulp of your tooth. This treatment also preserves your natural tooth from extraction.

Financing Family Dentistry in Chicago

At Contos Smile Center, we understand that navigating the financial aspects of dental care can sometimes feel complex, which is why we offer a range of patient financing options designed to fit various needs and budgets.

Our team will gladly help you understand and maximize your insurance reimbursement for covered procedures. We consider filing your claims a courtesy, providing an estimate of basic coverage to help you plan.

Personalized Payment Plans: If you don’t have insurance or limited coverage, we can work with you and your family to set up payment plans that fit your needs.
Accepted Payments: For your convenience, we accept Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and American Express.
Outside Financing: For larger dental procedures, flexible payment programs like CareCredit and Lending Club are available. These options allow you to access the treatment you need by making manageable monthly payments over time. You can learn more about these programs and even pre-register online.

If you have any questions regarding your account or to learn more about our financial options, please contact us at (773) 973-0531. We’re dedicated to providing exceptional dental care.

Frequently Asked Questions

+How often should I visit the dentist?

For the best results, we recommend scheduling an appointment with your dentist every six months. When combined with a consistent at-home oral hygiene routine, your smile will remain healthy and functional year-round. If you can’t remember the last time you sat in a dental chair, schedule an appointment at our Chicago dental office today.

+What steps can I take at home to maintain good oral hygiene between dental visits?

Maintaining good oral hygiene at home is crucial. Dr. Contos advises brushing your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily to remove plaque and food particles between your teeth and the gum line. Using an antimicrobial mouthwash can also be beneficial in reducing bacteria.

+Are digital X-rays safe, and why are they used?

Yes, digital X-rays are very safe. They expose patients to significantly less radiation than traditional film X-rays, making them a preferred diagnostic tool at Contos Smile Center. Dr. Contos uses digital X-rays to detect hidden decay, bone loss, infections, and other issues that are not visible during a visual examination, allowing for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.

+What should I do if I experience a dental emergency, such as a severe toothache or a knocked-out tooth?

If you experience a dental emergency, contact Contos Smile Center immediately at (773) 973-0531. Dr. Contos and his team will provide guidance on what to do until you can be seen, and they will work to schedule an emergency appointment as quickly as possible to address your discomfort and prevent further complications. Many patients report being thrilled with their results after completing treatments, highlighting the dedication and expertise of our team.

Schedule Your Biannual Dental Appointment with Our Friendly Dentist’s Office

At Contos Smile Center, Dr. Contos and his compassionate team are dedicated to being your steadfast partners in maintaining exceptional oral health throughout your life. We understand that visiting the dentist can sometimes feel daunting, and we are here to make every experience positive, building trust and comfort with every appointment.

Don’t put off the care your dental health deserves— call (773) 973-0531 to schedule your appointment with the best general dentist in Chicago. We welcome new patients from the lively communities of Lincoln Park, Lakeview, and Andersonville, and eagerly anticipate becoming your trusted dental home.