New Patient Dental Exams: Setting the Foundation for Lifelong Oral Health

Welcome to Park Avenue Dental Care, where we are excited to extend a warm invitation to new patients. Drs. Gregory Duffner, Alexander Dolinar, and James J. Kreuz are dedicated to providing first-class dental care to all our patients. Whether you are new in Homewood, Illinois, or want a fresh start to your smile, you can be confident you have made the right choice. We blend personalized care with advanced technology to meet all your needs in a comfortable, relaxing office.

1. What does a new patient exam involve?

Every new patient begins their journey with a comprehensive dental exam. A complete mouth exam establishes a solid foundation for lifelong oral health. This thorough evaluation provides you and the dentist with a clear understanding of the current state of oral health and sets the stage for personalized treatment planning.

2. Here’s what to expect from a new patient oral exam.

  • Visual exam: The dentist will examine your teeth, gums, and other oral structures for signs of gum disease, tooth decay, overcrowding, and failing dental work. The dentist also examines your bite and jaw joints for signs of bruxism and TMJ pain. Dental exams allow our dentist to detect and treat oral issues before they become painful and costly.
  • Digital X-rays: Our preliminary oral exams are detailed, but not everything is plain sight. We rely on digital X-rays to uncover tumors, infections, impacted teeth, bone loss, and other hidden issues. We use the safest X-rays to ensure we get an in-depth understanding of your oral health without compromising your safety.
  • Check for poor oral habits: Do you smoke or vape? Do you grind your teeth? Our dentist can tell by looking at the condition of your teeth and gums. We’ll advise you to maintain healthy lifestyle choices to keep your teeth and gums in great shape.

After a comprehensive exam, the dentist devises a personalized treatment plan to restore oral health. Your treatment could include professional dental cleaning, although depending on the findings, fillings, periodontal care, and root canals may also be involved.

3. What financial information do I need to know?

We are in the network with a few dental insurance plans. We understand navigating insurance can be challenging for anyone. Our team will file claims on your behalf and ensure you maximize your benefits.

Don’t have insurance? Don’t worry! We have partnered with CareCredit to ensure you manage treatment without the headache of upfront costs. Third-party financing allows you to pay for your treatment with low-interest monthly payments that suit your budget.

4. What are the treatments available?

We are a comprehensive dental office. Whether you need preventive, aesthetic, or restorative dental treatments, we can accommodate you. Discover your new smile with the following treatments.

  • Preventive dentistry: dental exams, cleanings, and digital X-rays
  • Restorative dentistry: implants, crowns, fillings, dentures, and bridges
  • Orthodontics with clear aligner therapy
  • Periodontal care
  • Cosmetic dental dentistry: teeth whitening, veneers, and crowns
  • Laser dentistry treatments, including frenectomies, gum contouring, canker, and cold sores
  • TMJ pain treatment and sleep apnea dentistry

5. How do I schedule an appointment?

Make a real difference to your oral health with a fresh start at Park Avenue Dental Care. To schedule an appointment, call (708) 792-2779. Alternatively, you can request an appointment online, and our team will contact you to arrange an appointment. Our Homewood office welcomes new and existing patients from Flossmoor, Chicago Heights, Orland Park, Glenwood, South Holland, and beyond.