Questions, answered

Omni Dental of Arlington Heights is at 305 E. Rand Road, Arlington Heights, IL 60004. The office is open Monday to Friday from 10 AM to 6 PM and closed on weekends. Call (847) 483-8833 to book or ask a question.

Yes. Omni Dental is a family dentist, so kids, parents and grandparents can all be seen in one office for exams, cleanings and repairs. Booking family members back to back can save you an extra trip.

At Omni Dental you can. Dr. Poles is a Board Certified Diplomate of the ICOI and IDIA and has completed advanced implant training at the ILAPEO Institute in Brazil. He plans single implants, implant dentures and full-arch treatment such as All-on-4.

We accept most major dental plans, including Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna, Delta Dental and MetLife. Coverage depends on your own plan, so bring your card and ask our front desk what it covers before any treatment begins.

Book an exam with Dr. Poles and tell him what you would like to change. He checks your teeth and gums first, then talks through shape, shade and options such as whitening, bonding or veneers before you decide.

Plan for a longer appointment than a routine checkup, because the first visit includes your paperwork, a full exam, any needed X-rays and a review of your results. The exact time depends on your needs. Ask our front desk when you book so you can plan your day.

Yes. Omni Dental provides general and family dentistry, so parents and children can be seen at the same office for exams and cleanings. Bring your child's insurance card and a list of any medical conditions or medications. Ask our front desk whether a parent or guardian needs to come with your child and sign the forms.

Often, yes. If the exam shows healthy gums, a routine cleaning can usually follow. If there are signs of gum disease, Dr. Poles may recommend a deeper cleaning or laser therapy for the gums instead, and he will explain why before scheduling it.

Tell us when you book and again when you arrive. Dr. Poles can explain each step before he does it, and you can ask to pause at any time. Knowing what comes next, and why, helps many people feel more in control in the chair.

That depends on your plan. Omni Dental accepts most major dental plans, including Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna, Delta Dental and MetLife, but each policy sets its own limits. Bring your insurance card and ask our front desk what your plan covers before treatment starts.

Omni Dental is at 305 E. Rand Road, Arlington Heights, IL 60004. Put the address into your map app before you leave, and call (847) 483-8833 if you need directions or are running late so our team knows.

No. Dr. Poles is a general dentist with advanced training, a Master of the Academy of General Dentistry with 22+ years of experience. He offers braces and Invisalign for cases that suit a general dental office. If your case calls for an orthodontist, he will tell you.

Neither is better for everyone. Invisalign works well for many cases of crowding, spacing and mild to moderate bite problems, and it is removable. Braces work full time and often suit severe or complex cases. Your exam shows which option is likely to reach your goal.

Braces usually feel snug or sore for a few days after they are placed and after adjustments. The brackets can rub your cheeks at first. Orthodontic wax and soft foods help while you adjust, and Dr. Poles gives you care instructions for your case.

There is no upper age limit for moving teeth, as long as your gums and the bone around your teeth are healthy. Many adults straighten their teeth to fix shifting after childhood braces, make cleaning easier or prepare for crowns or veneers.

It depends on how far your teeth need to move and the type of treatment you choose. Treatment is usually measured in months, and small corrections tend to finish sooner. Keeping your appointments helps treatment stay on schedule. You get an estimated timeline at your exam.

Orthodontic coverage varies more than most dental benefits. Some plans limit it by age or with a lifetime maximum, and others leave it out. Omni Dental accepts most major dental plans, and our front desk can help you check what your plan includes before you start.

It is a layer of tooth colored resin sculpted onto the front of a tooth to change its color, shape or length. Unlike porcelain, it is built up in the chair rather than made by a lab. Dr. Poles tells you at your exam whether your teeth and bite suit resin.

Because little or no enamel is usually removed, resin is often seen as a more reversible choice. It can be polished, reshaped or replaced, for example if you later move to porcelain. How reversible it is depends on how much each tooth was shaped in your case.

Yes, resin picks up stains from coffee, tea, red wine and tobacco more easily than porcelain or natural enamel. Rinsing after dark drinks, brushing well and regular cleanings help. Light surface stains can often be polished away at your checkup.

No. Whitening gel does not lighten resin. If you want a brighter smile, whiten your natural teeth first, then have the resin matched to that new shade. Later whitening would lighten your natural teeth but not the veneers.

Most people find it comfortable, since many cases need little or no drilling and often no anesthetic. You may feel the surface being cleaned and the resin being smoothed. Your teeth can feel slightly different for a few days while you get used to the new shape.

Resin placed only to change how teeth look is usually treated as elective, so plans rarely pay for it. When resin rebuilds a broken or decayed tooth, that repair may count as restorative care. Bring your insurance card and ask our front desk what your plan covers before treatment.

Teeth whitening is one of the most common, because it brightens your smile without changing tooth structure. Bonding and veneers are also popular for chips, gaps and uneven teeth. The right first step depends on what bothers you most, which an exam helps clarify.

It is a popular rule of thumb, not an official guideline, usually described as brushing three times a day for three minutes. The American Dental Association recommends brushing twice a day for two minutes with fluoride toothpaste and cleaning between teeth daily. Good habits protect cosmetic work too.

Dr. Bilus Poles, founder and lead dentist, plans your cosmetic care with you. Lab made work such as porcelain veneers and crowns is made by a dental lab to his plan, and he fits it. Ask him at your consultation which options suit your teeth.

Often, yes. Depending on the treatment, Dr. Poles may use photos, models, a trial smile placed over your teeth or temporary veneers to show the planned shape and length. You can ask for changes at this stage, before final work is made.

It depends on the treatment. Whitening fades gradually and can be touched up. Bonding and composite may need repairs sooner, while porcelain veneers and crowns tend to last longer. Your bite, any grinding and your home care all affect how long a result keeps its look.

Gum disease is treated first, because cosmetic work needs healthy gums to look good and hold up. Omni Dental offers gum disease treatment, including laser therapy, and Dr. Poles holds a Certificate of Proficiency in Dental Laser Surgery. Once your gums are healthy, cosmetic care can begin.

Most bonding is comfortable because little or no tooth is removed, and many small repairs need no numbing at all. If the repair is near a nerve or includes a cavity, the tooth can be numbed first. Mild sensitivity for a day or two is possible.

Many small repairs fit into a single visit, and several teeth can often be treated in the same appointment. The time depends on the size and number of repairs. You can usually eat and return to your normal day right afterward.

No. Whitening gel does not lighten composite resin, which is why whitening comes before new bonding. If older bonding no longer matches your teeth, it can often be polished, or replaced so it blends in again.

Neither is right for everyone. Bonding is quicker, removes little or no tooth and suits small changes. Porcelain veneers resist stains better and suit larger changes across several teeth, but they usually need some enamel reshaped. Dr. Poles helps you weigh both for your goals.

Often, yes, if the gap is small. Resin is added to the sides of the teeth to narrow or close the space. Larger gaps or gaps caused by bite problems may be better treated with aligners or another option, which Dr. Poles can explain.

A fair price reflects your case, not a flat number. Mild spacing needs fewer aligners than crowding with a bite problem. A good plan also includes progress checks and retainers. Ask for a written plan that lists what is included, and compare what plans cover, not only the total.

It is a common guideline to keep each meal break to about 30 minutes, so your aligners stay in for most of the day and night. Brush or rinse before you put them back in. Long breaks add up and can slow how well your teeth follow the plan.

Aligners are not right for every mouth. Severe bite problems, large rotations or poor wear habits can lead to slower or less complete results, and fixed braces may suit those cases better. A careful exam is how Dr. Poles decides whether to recommend Invisalign or another option.

Most people feel pressure or tightness for a day or two after switching to a new set of aligners. That feeling usually means the trays are working. The edges are smooth, with no wires to rub your cheeks. Tell us if a spot stays sore so we can check the fit.

Often, yes. Teeth can shift back over time, especially if retainers were not worn. Many adults use Invisalign to correct that shift. Dr. Poles checks how much movement you need and whether your gums and bone can support it before planning treatment.

It depends on your plan. Some plans include an orthodontic benefit that can apply to Invisalign, often with age limits or a lifetime maximum. Others include none. Omni Dental accepts most major dental plans. Bring your insurance card and ask our front desk what your plan covers before you start.

Not quite. A veneer covers only the front of a tooth. A porcelain crown covers the whole tooth and suits teeth that are cracked, weak or heavily filled. Both can be made of porcelain, so the material can match while the treatment is different.

Usually there are chances to check the look first. Depending on your plan, a trial smile or temporaries may show the shape, and each porcelain shell is tried in so the fit and shade can be checked. That is the moment to ask for changes.

Usually not. Because a thin layer of enamel is reshaped for most porcelain shells, that tooth will always need a covering. A veneer can be repaired or replaced later, but the tooth cannot go back to how it was. Take your time and ask every question first.

Tooth preparation is done with local anesthetic, so most people feel pressure rather than pain. Mild sensitivity to hot and cold for a few days afterward is common and usually settles. Your dentist will give you aftercare instructions for your case.

Porcelain resists staining well, but it can chip if you bite something very hard or grind your teeth. The edges where a veneer meets the tooth can still collect stain or plaque, so brushing, flossing and regular cleanings stay important.

Porcelain usually costs more than composite, because a lab makes each shell and it takes more visits. Insurance rarely covers it, since most plans treat veneers done for appearance as elective. After an exam, ask for a written estimate for your teeth.

The right price depends on the method, the number of sessions and whether you need a cleaning first. Compare what each option includes, such as the exam, gum protection and touch up gel. Our whitening cost guide explains each factor so you can plan.

For many people, yes. Professional gels are stronger than store products and are used after an exam, so problems like cavities or exposed roots are found first. Results tend to be faster and more even. Whether it is worth it for you depends on your stains and goals.

It is a simple reminder: brush twice a day, for two minutes each time, and see your dentist twice a year. The American Dental Association recommends brushing twice a day for two minutes. These habits also help your whitening results last longer.

No. Whitening gel only lightens natural enamel. Crowns, veneers, bonding and tooth colored fillings keep their original color. If you plan new work on your front teeth, whitening first lets it be matched to your brighter shade.

When used as directed after a dental exam, professional whitening is considered safe for healthy enamel. Temporary sensitivity is the most common side effect. Overusing strong products without guidance can irritate gums, which is one reason to whiten under a dentist's care.

No. Whitening gel does not change the color of porcelain or composite. That is why many people whiten their natural teeth first, then match the veneers to that brighter shade. If nearby teeth darken later, a whitening touch up can keep them close to your veneers.

A prosthodontist is a dental specialist in restoring and replacing teeth. Many general dentists with advanced cosmetic training also place veneers. What matters most is careful planning, a clear preview and honest advice. Dr. Poles is a general dentist, a Master of the AGD and an AACD member.

Porcelain veneers are usually custom made by a dental lab for your teeth, not picked off a shelf by brand. Your result depends more on the plan, the shade and shape chosen, the lab work and how well each veneer is bonded and checked against your bite.

Veneers do not ruin healthy teeth, but porcelain usually means reshaping a thin layer of enamel, which does not grow back. That tooth will then always need a covering. Composite often needs little or no reshaping. Dr. Poles explains how much preparation your plan needs before you decide.

It depends on how many teeth show when you smile and what you want to change. One or two veneers can hide a chip or a dark tooth, while others choose a set across the front teeth. Dr. Poles plans the number with you so the result looks balanced.

Veneers can make slightly crooked teeth look straighter by changing their front surface. They do not move teeth or correct your bite. For more crowding or a bite problem, Invisalign may be a better first step, sometimes followed by veneers or whitening.

An All-on-4 bridge replaces a full row of teeth in one arch. The exact number of teeth depends on the size of your jaw, your bite and how far back the implants can support the bridge. Dr. Poles plans the tooth count, shape and shade with you before the final bridge is made.

There is no fixed number of years. The implants are meant as a long-term solution, and the bridge on top can wear or chip and may need repair. Daily cleaning under the bridge, regular checkups and not smoking all help keep the implants healthy.

It depends on your plan. Some plans pay toward the extractions, X-rays or the denture portion, while others exclude implants. Annual maximums also cap what a plan pays each year. Bring your insurance card and ask our front desk what your plan may cover before you decide.

Yes. All-on-4 implants can be placed in the upper jaw, the lower jaw or both. The upper jaw often has softer bone and the sinuses sit close by, so careful planning matters. Your X-rays show how much bone you have and whether the design fits.

Yes. The gallery on this page shows real Omni Dental patients before and after full-arch treatment. Every mouth is different, so photos show what is possible rather than what you will get. At your consultation, Dr. Poles explains what your own result could look like.

After healing, most people eat a wide range of foods with the final bridge. Early on you follow a soft diet so the implants can bond with the bone. Very hard or sticky foods can still damage the bridge, so Dr. Poles tells you what to avoid.

Very few things rule you out for good. Untreated gum disease, too little bone, uncontrolled diabetes, some medications and heavy smoking can delay treatment or change the plan. Many of these can be managed first, for example with gum treatment or bone grafting. Dr. Poles reviews your health history and X-rays before he recommends implants.

Often, yes, when the remaining teeth cannot be saved. Failing teeth can be removed and a full arch of teeth placed on a small number of implants, sometimes at the same surgery, when your bone allows it. Teeth that are still healthy are usually worth keeping, so Dr. Poles checks each one before suggesting a full arch plan.

For many people, yes. Age alone is rarely the deciding factor. Your general health, your bone and how well you heal matter more. Many older adults choose implant-supported dentures or a fixed arch so they can chew with confidence and stop worrying about a loose denture.

There is no average worth relying on, because quotes cover different things. The number of implants, the crown, bridge or denture on top, and steps such as bone grafting all change the total. An exam and X-rays come first, then you get a written estimate that lists each stage.

Some dental plans pay toward parts of treatment, such as the exam, X-rays, extractions or the crown, while others exclude the implant post. Omni Dental accepts most major dental plans, including Aetna, Cigna, Delta Dental and MetLife. The front desk checks your benefits before treatment starts.

Usually not in a visible spot. Depending on your case, you may wear a temporary crown, a small removable tooth or your current denture while the bone bonds with the implant. Dr. Poles plans the temporary option with you before surgery, so you know what to expect.

Often, yes. A cracked base or a chipped denture tooth can usually be repaired, depending on where it broke and how the denture fits overall. Do not glue it yourself, because home glue can ruin the fit. Bring every piece to your visit so Dr. Poles can check it.

Each has a place. A bridge is fixed and uses the teeth on either side as supports. A partial denture is removable, can replace teeth in several areas at once and does not require reshaping teeth for crowns. Dr. Poles explains which fits your teeth and budget.

Flexible dentures are partials made from a thin, bendable resin instead of a rigid base with metal clasps. Some people find them lighter and less visible. They are not right for every mouth, and they can be harder to adjust or add teeth to later, so ask whether they suit your case.

Some people notice food tastes or feels different at first, mostly with a full upper denture, because it covers the roof of the mouth. Hot drinks can also feel less hot, so take care with them. Many people find this becomes less noticeable as they get used to the denture.

Your jaw and gums change over time, so a denture gradually loosens. Relines refit the base to your gums, and dentures are replaced when teeth wear or the fit can no longer be corrected. Regular checkups let Dr. Poles catch these changes early.

Implant-supported dentures clip onto implants placed in the jaw, so they are much steadier when you eat and talk. For a lower denture, two implants often make a big difference. A fixed implant bridge is another option if you do not want to remove your teeth at all.

Most full arches rest on a small number of implants per jaw, not one implant for every missing tooth. The number depends on your bone, whether the teeth are fixed or removable, and your bite. Dr. Poles explains how many your plan needs after your exam and X-rays.

Sometimes. If one jaw still has healthy teeth, you may only need a full arch in the other jaw, or a smaller implant bridge. Dr. Poles checks every remaining tooth on your X-rays and only suggests removing teeth that cannot be kept healthy.

In most cases, yes. A temporary fixed bridge is fitted when your implants are stable enough, or you wear a temporary denture. Your final teeth are made after the implants have bonded with the bone.

Few plans cover a full mouth case in full. Many pay toward parts of it, such as extractions, X-rays or the denture portion, up to an annual maximum. Omni Dental accepts most major plans. Bring your insurance card and ask our front desk what yours may pay before you commit.

Most cases take several months, because the bone needs time to bond with the implants before final teeth are made. Extractions, gum treatment or bone grafting can add time. Treating one arch before the other also stretches the timeline, by choice.

Sometimes. If your denture fits well and is in good condition, attachments can occasionally be added to it after the implants heal. Many patients need a new denture for a good fit. Dr. Poles checks your current denture at your consultation and explains both routes.

The nylon liners inside the clips wear with daily use, so they are replaced from time to time as routine care. How often depends on how you use the denture and how it fits. Bringing it to regular checkups lets wear be caught before the denture feels loose.

Some plans pay toward the denture itself, extractions or X-rays, while the implants may or may not be covered. Annual maximums apply. Omni Dental accepts most major dental plans, including Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna, Delta Dental and MetLife. Bring your insurance card and ask our front desk what your plan covers.

Most people find speech easier once the denture stops moving. There is still a short adjustment period with any new denture, and some sounds may feel different at first. Reading aloud at home for a few days often helps your tongue and lips adapt.

Mini implants are narrower posts that are sometimes used to steady a denture, often when bone is limited. They are a general option in dentistry, and Dr. Poles may or may not recommend them for you. Your bone, bite and denture type decide which implant design fits best.

You have two main paths. Healthy teeth can sometimes stay, with an implant retained partial denture filling the gaps. If the remaining teeth are failing, they can be removed and a full implant denture planned instead. Your X-rays and gum health guide that choice.

Immediate loading is a general option in implant dentistry, not a standard part of every plan. Dr. Poles may or may not recommend it, depending on your bone, gums and health. He decides after an exam and X-rays, and if it is not the safest choice, he explains a staged plan instead.

People with too little bone, an active infection at the site, untreated gum disease, heavy grinding, or health conditions that slow healing are often better served by a staged plan. Smoking also raises the risk. These are checked at your exam before either approach is suggested.

Not usually. The area is numbed, so most people feel pressure rather than sharp pain. Having the tooth removed and the implant placed at one visit can mean one recovery instead of two. You get aftercare instructions written for your case.

Not right away. A temporary tooth on a new implant is there for looks and light use. You follow a soft diet and avoid biting hard foods with it until the implant has healed and your final tooth is fitted.

Not necessarily. The total depends on the number of implants, the temporary and final teeth, and any extraction or grafting. Fewer visits do not always mean a lower price. Ask any office what its quote includes, from the temporary tooth to the final crown.

General dentists place most bridges as part of everyday restorative care. Prosthodontists are specialists in crowns, bridges and dentures. Dr. Poles is a general dentist and a Master of the Academy of General Dentistry, with advanced implant training for implant bridges.

A bridge can be a good fit when the teeth beside the gap already have large fillings or crowns, when bone is thin, or when you want a shorter timeline without surgery. Dr. Poles explains which reasons apply to your mouth.

Thin or soft bone in the gap, active gum disease, and some health conditions or habits can make an implant less suitable, at least for now. Some of these can be treated first. Dr. Poles checks your X-rays and health history before recommending one.

The supporting teeth are numbed before they are shaped, so most people feel pressure rather than pain. Some sensitivity or gum tenderness for a few days is common. Dr. Poles gives you aftercare steps for your case.

Brush as usual, then clean under the false tooth once a day with a floss threader, super floss or a small brush. Plaque left there can cause decay on the supporting teeth or gum disease, common reasons a bridge needs replacing.

Many dental plans cover part of a bridge as a major restorative service, subject to your deductible and annual maximum. Omni Dental accepts most major plans, including Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna, Delta Dental and MetLife. Coverage depends on your plan.

The tooth is numbed before it is shaped, so most people feel pressure rather than pain. Some sensitivity to hot or cold for a few days afterward is common. Dr. Poles gives you aftercare steps and tells you what to do if it lasts.

For many teeth, yes. Ceramic and porcelain crowns give the most natural look, which is why they are common on front teeth. On back teeth or for people who grind, a stronger material such as zirconia may be the better fit.

The specialist is a prosthodontist, a dentist with extra training in crowns, bridges and dentures. Most crowns are placed by general dentists. Dr. Poles is a general dentist and a Master of the Academy of General Dentistry.

It depends on how many teeth need crowns, the materials, any prep work such as buildups or root canals, and your insurance. Full-mouth work is planned tooth by tooth, so ask for a written plan and estimate after your exam.

You can eat, but be gentle. Avoid sticky foods like caramel and gum, and chew on the other side when you can. When you floss, slide the floss out to the side instead of pulling it up, so the temporary stays in place.

Tooth-colored crowns are shaded to blend with the teeth around them. If you plan to whiten, do it before the crown is made, because crowns do not change color with whitening. The shade is checked against your neighboring teeth first.

The tooth is numbed with a local anesthetic first, so most people feel pressure and vibration rather than sharp pain. Tell Dr. Poles if you feel anything sharp during the visit, so more numbing can be given.

A single filling often takes under an hour, including numbing. Larger fillings, or several at once, take longer. If you need a lot of work, Dr. Poles may suggest splitting it into more than one visit.

Cost depends on the material, how many surfaces of the tooth are involved, and which tooth it is. Many dental plans include fillings as a basic restorative service. Ask for a written estimate, and check how your plan treats each material.

Gold and ceramic restorations are often the most durable, and silver amalgam holds up well on back teeth. Tooth-colored composite is strong enough for most small and medium cavities. Dr. Poles explains which options fit your tooth, bite and goals.

No. Very early weak spots in the enamel can sometimes harden again with fluoride and good care. Once decay has made a hole, it keeps growing until it is cleaned out and filled.

Tooth-colored fillings are hardened with a light, so they are set when you leave. Wait until the numbness wears off before chewing, so you do not bite your cheek or tongue. Dr. Poles gives you instructions for your case.

Many people do well with a checkup and cleaning every six months. Some patients, such as those with gum disease or frequent cavities, may need visits more often. Dr. Poles sets the interval for each family member based on what he sees.

Yes. Children are welcome for checkups, cleanings and general care. Omni Dental is a general and family practice, not a pediatric specialty office. If your child needs care outside general dentistry, Dr. Poles will explain that at the visit.

Many dentists suggest a first visit around the first birthday, or when the first teeth come in. Early visits are short and gentle. They help children get used to the chair before any treatment is ever needed.

Ask the front desk at (847) 483-8833 whether times are open for several family members in one block. Booking siblings, or a parent and child, together can save you a second trip during the week.

Bring a photo ID, your dental insurance card, a list of medicines each person takes, and any recent X-rays from a previous dentist. Write down your questions in advance so nothing gets missed during the visit.

Gingivitis, the earliest stage, can usually be reversed with a professional cleaning and better brushing and flossing. Once periodontitis has caused bone loss, that bone does not grow back on its own. Treatment can still control the infection and help slow further damage.

Sometimes. Bacteria under the gums can cause bad breath or a bad taste that brushing does not fix. Bad breath has other causes too, so it is not proof of gum disease. A gum exam with pocket measurements gives the real answer.

A regular cleaning removes plaque and tartar above and just below the gumline on healthy gums. A deep cleaning, called scaling and root planing, reaches deeper into gum pockets and smooths the roots so the gums can heal. The area is numbed first.

The area is numbed before treatment, so most people feel little during the visit. Afterward, gums may feel tender for a few days. Dr. Poles gives you aftercare steps for your case.

Many cases are treated by a general dentist with deep cleaning, laser therapy and maintenance visits. A periodontist, a gum specialist, may be needed for advanced cases that call for surgery or bone grafting. Dr. Poles tells you if your case needs that level of care.

It depends on the stage of disease, how many areas of the mouth need deep cleaning or laser therapy, and how often you need maintenance visits afterward. Your dental plan also changes your share. After your gum exam, ask for a written estimate that lists each step.

Many root canals take one visit, often around an hour or a little longer. Molars with several canals, or teeth with a lot of infection, may need two visits. A crown, if your tooth needs one, is usually placed at a later appointment.

The tooth is fully numbed, so treatment usually feels much like a filling. If you still feel sharp sensations during treatment, tell Dr. Poles, and more numbing can usually be given.

Many root canals are done by general dentists. Dr. Poles is a general dentist and a Master of the Academy of General Dentistry. An endodontist is a dentist who focuses on root canals and handles some very complex cases. After your X-ray, Dr. Poles tells you plainly which one your tooth needs.

Not always. Back teeth that carry heavy chewing forces usually need a crown to lower the chance of cracks. A front tooth with little damage may only need a filling. Dr. Poles decides based on how much healthy tooth remains.

An infected pulp does not heal on its own. The infection can spread into the bone, form an abscess and cause swelling, and the tooth may eventually be lost. Pain may come and go, but the infection usually stays until it is treated.

Ask who does the treatment, how they decide between saving and removing the tooth, and whether they refer complex cases. Look at training and reviews too. Dr. Poles holds a Master of the Academy of General Dentistry, and Omni Dental is rated 5.0 on Google from 541 reviews.

Yes. With a traditional crown, you wear a temporary crown between visits. It protects the shaped tooth and lets you chew and smile normally. Avoid sticky foods, and slide floss out to the side so the temporary stays put.

Crown cost depends on the material, any work the tooth needs first, and your insurance, not on speed alone. The cheapest option is not always the best value for a tooth that takes heavy chewing. Ask for a written estimate after your exam.

A well-fitted ceramic crown made in one visit can be durable for many patients. Lab crowns offer more material choices, such as hand-layered porcelain, porcelain fused to metal and gold. The right material depends on the tooth, your bite and whether you grind.

Sometimes. Once the old crown comes off, the tooth underneath is checked for decay or cracks. If it is sound, a one-visit crown may be possible. If it needs more repair or time to heal, a two-visit plan is the safer choice.

A general dentist who provides oral appliances fits and adjusts them and watches your teeth, bite and jaw over time. At Omni Dental, Dr. Poles provides oral appliances for snoring and sleep apnea.

The price depends on the appliance design, the number of fitting and adjustment visits, and your coverage. Some medical plans may cover oral appliances for diagnosed sleep apnea, and dental plans vary. Bring your insurance cards and ask our front desk what your plans may cover before treatment starts.

No. A dentist cannot diagnose sleep apnea, but may notice warning signs at a checkup, such as teeth worn down by grinding, and suggest that you ask your physician about a sleep study.

Talk with your physician about your symptoms and ask whether a sleep study makes sense. Bring notes from a bed partner about snoring or breathing pauses if you can. If you are diagnosed and an appliance is an option, Dr. Poles can check whether one suits your teeth and jaw.

No. Store guards are not made for your teeth, can fit poorly and usually cannot be adjusted in small steps. A custom appliance is fitted to your teeth and checked at follow-up visits. Snoring should also be checked by a physician first, since it can signal sleep apnea.

Some people notice a slightly different bite for a short time after removing the appliance in the morning. With long-term use, bite changes can happen. That is why Dr. Poles checks your teeth and bite at regular visits and may suggest morning jaw exercises.

A routine cleaning with an exam usually takes less than an hour. A first visit, a visit with new X-rays, or a cleaning after a long gap can take longer. Deep cleanings are often split into two or more visits.

It depends on the type of cleaning, whether X-rays are due, and your dental plan. Many plans treat routine cleanings and exams as preventive care. Deep cleanings are often covered differently, so check your plan, and ask us for a written estimate first.

Not by itself. Removing surface stains can make teeth look brighter, but the natural shade stays the same. Ask Dr. Poles at your visit whether professional whitening suits your teeth.

Bleeding usually means the gums are inflamed from plaque and tartar. It is a common early sign of gingivitis. With regular cleanings and steady brushing and flossing at home, bleeding often settles. Dr. Poles will tell you if more care is needed.

Yes. Children get cleanings and exams at a gentler pace, with time to explain each step. A child's visit is a good chance to check new teeth coming in and talk about brushing habits at home.

The area is fully numbed, so you should feel pressure but not sharp pain during the extraction. Soreness and some swelling for a few days afterward are normal. Dr. Poles tells you how to manage discomfort for your case.

Most people feel better within a few days. The gum closes over in a few weeks, and the bone underneath keeps healing for several months, which matters if you plan an implant.

An oral surgeon focuses on surgery of the mouth and jaw, such as deeply impacted wisdom teeth or major bone grafts. Many extractions are handled by a general dentist. Dr. Poles tells you if your case would be better served by an oral surgeon.

A dry socket happens when the blood clot in the socket is lost too early, leaving bone exposed. It causes pain that gets worse a few days after the extraction. Avoiding straws, smoking and hard spitting helps protect the clot. Call us if it happens.

Sometimes, when the bone is healthy and there is no active infection. If the site needs to heal first, a temporary option such as a partial denture can fill the gap in the meantime. Dr. Poles explains the timing for your tooth after your exam.

Stick to soft, cool foods such as yogurt, lukewarm soup, eggs and mashed potatoes for the first days. Chew on the other side, and avoid crunchy or seedy foods that can get into the socket while it heals.

Severe tooth pain, a knocked-out or badly broken tooth, bleeding that will not stop, and swelling in the gums or face all count. The table on this page shows how urgent each one is and when to go to an emergency room instead.

You can call even if you have never been to Omni Dental. Phone (847) 483-8833 during office hours, describe the problem, and the team will explain your next step and what to bring.

Follow the first aid steps on this page and call right away, because the chance of saving the tooth drops quickly. Bring the tooth in milk to your visit so Dr. Poles can check whether it can be put back.

No. Omni Dental is open Monday to Friday, 10 AM to 6 PM, and closed Saturday and Sunday. For a serious problem outside those hours, follow the emergency room advice on this page, then call us when we open on the next weekday.

Often, yes. Pain that stops on its own can mean the nerve inside the tooth has died while the infection remains. Book an exam even if the pain fades, so the cause can be found before it spreads.

It depends on the crown material, whether the tooth needs a buildup, post or root canal first, and your insurance plan. Because those factors change from tooth to tooth, your estimate comes after Dr. Poles examines the tooth and takes X-rays.

A crown is custom made to fit your bite and match your shade. It usually involves an exam, shaping the tooth, impressions, a temporary crown and a second fitting visit. That lab work and chair time is what you pay for, compared with a filling.

A crown looks like a natural tooth. It covers the whole visible part of the tooth down to the gumline. Tooth-colored materials such as porcelain and zirconia are shaded to blend with your other teeth, while gold crowns look metallic.

Sometimes, but a cracked or weak tooth carries risk while you wait. Ask Dr. Poles how urgent your tooth is. If it can safely wait, placing the crown early in a new plan year can leave more of your annual maximum for it.

The crown and the root canal are separate treatments, so each has its own fee. Some teeth also need a post or buildup before the crown goes on. Ask for a written plan that lists each step, so you can see the full picture first.

There is no typical price worth relying on, because one quote may include the extraction, bone graft, abutment and crown while another lists only the implant post. Prices also vary by region. After an exam and X-rays, ask for your own estimate broken down by stage.

It depends on your plan. Some plans pay part of the crown, extraction or X-rays and exclude the implant post, while others cover more. Annual maximums and waiting periods also limit what is paid. Bring your insurance card and ask our front desk what your plan covers before treatment starts.

Offices bundle different stages into one number. One quote may leave out the final crown, the temporary teeth or follow-up visits. The materials, the lab and the training of the dentist placing the implant also differ, so compare quotes line by line.

Only when you need one. Bone shrinks after a tooth is lost, so a site that has been empty for a long time is more likely to need grafting. Your X-rays show the bone you have, and the estimate tells you whether a graft is included.

For many people it is, because an implant keeps the jawbone working and leaves neighboring teeth untouched. It also costs more upfront than a bridge or denture. Whether it is worth it for you depends on your health, your goals and your budget.

A traditional acrylic partial or a basic full denture usually has the lowest starting cost. The cheapest option is not always good value, though, if it fits poorly or needs early replacement. Ask for a basic and an upgraded option side by side in your estimate.

They include dental implants, the surgery to place them and the attachments that hold the denture. In return, the denture is usually much steadier when you eat and talk. For a lower denture that floats, two implants often make a clear difference.

The number of teeth to remove, how complex each extraction is, and whether you wear an immediate denture while you heal all change the total. An immediate denture usually needs a reline or a new denture once the gums settle, so ask that both stages appear in your estimate.

Many dental plans pay part of the cost of dentures, usually under major services. Plans set limits on how often a denture can be replaced and may have waiting periods. Omni Dental accepts most major plans, and coverage always depends on your own plan.

Start with an exam so you know every option and its cost. A partial may solve the most pressing problem first, and treatment can sometimes be phased across plan years to use insurance benefits. Ask your HSA or FSA administrator whether dentures qualify.

It depends on the plan and the type of denture. Early adjustments for sore spots are a normal part of getting a new denture, and gums change over time. Ask which adjustments and relines your estimate includes.

Averages cover everything from small touch ups to full bite corrections, so they rarely match any one person. Your price depends on case complexity, the number of aligners, refinements and retainers. After an exam with Dr. Poles, ask for a written estimate based on your own plan, not a broad guess.

Providers may include different things in their quote. One price may cover records, progress checks, refinements and retainers, while another leaves some out. Compare written plans line by line, so you know what each one covers from consultation to retainers.

Not always. Speed depends on how far your teeth need to move and on how well you wear your aligners. Some simple cases move quickly with aligners, while some complex bites do better with braces. Dr. Poles can compare likely timelines for your teeth at your exam.

Ask your plan administrator whether your HSA or FSA can be used for this. Ask before treatment starts, so you know your options early. Ask our front desk for a written estimate that lists each step to share with them.

Retainers are a key part of treatment, because teeth tend to drift after they move. Whether they are in your quote varies, so ask before you start. Plan for them in your budget, since wearing them as directed protects the result you paid for.

Call the office so Dr. Poles can tell you whether to move to your next set, go back to the previous one or order a replacement. A replacement can add to your cost. Keeping your case with you whenever the aligners are out is the easiest way to avoid this.

Molars usually have three or four canals, often curved and narrow, while front teeth usually have one. More canals take more time to clean, shape and seal. Molars also tend to need a crown afterward, which adds to the total.

No. A root canal is usually done in the dental chair with local numbing, much like a large filling, and most people go back to their day afterward. Some insurance plans list it as a "major service," which is a billing category, not a sign of surgery.

Root canal treatment is a common, well-established way to save an infected tooth. Like any dental treatment, it has some risks, such as soreness or a tooth that needs more care later. Dr. Poles reviews your health history and explains what applies to you before starting.

Omni Dental accepts BlueCross BlueShield along with Aetna, Cigna, Delta Dental, MetLife and most other major dental plans. What your plan pays depends on its service category, deductible and annual maximum. A pre-treatment estimate from your plan shows your share before you start.

Usually not. The root canal and the crown are separate treatments, often done at separate visits. Your plan may also pay for them under different service categories, so check how each one is covered.

Tell us. Dr. Poles can explain which care is urgent, such as controlling infection, and which steps could wait. Putting off treatment of an infected tooth usually narrows your options, so make a plan rather than waiting without one.

It depends on the method you choose, how many sessions your stains need and whether you need a cleaning or filling first. After an exam with Dr. Poles, ask for a written estimate based on your own teeth, not a general average that may not fit you.

Often, yes. Yellowing from coffee, tea, wine or tobacco usually responds well to whitening. Gray stains, stains from inside the tooth and yellowing from thin enamel may respond less. In those cases, bonding or veneers can be other options worth discussing at your exam.

An exam finds cavities, gum problems or exposed roots that can make whitening uncomfortable. It also shows your type of staining and flags crowns or veneers that will not change color. That way you avoid paying for whitening that cannot give the result you expect.

No. Whitening lightens existing stains, but new stains build up over time from food, drinks and tobacco. How fast that happens varies from person to person, and the habits listed on this page help you hold your shade longer.

Touch up timing varies. Daily coffee or tobacco use shortens it, while good habits and regular cleanings stretch it. Many people use occasional touch ups to keep their shade. Dr. Poles can suggest a touch up schedule that fits your teeth and your budget.

There is no fair single number, because a simple extraction and a surgical one involve very different work. The tooth, its roots, the number of teeth and your insurance all change the total. An exam and X-ray give you an itemized plan for your own teeth.

A surgical extraction involves more steps: a small opening in the gum, sometimes removing bone or sectioning the tooth, and often stitches. It takes more time than lifting out a fully visible tooth, so it is usually priced higher.

Yes, in most cases. A badly broken or decayed tooth often breaks further during removal, so it is more likely to need a surgical extraction, which can raise the cost. An X-ray shows how much tooth and root remain before Dr. Poles recommends a plan.

It depends on your health, the teeth involved and how comfortable you are. Several teeth can often come out in one visit, such as two or four wisdom teeth. Each tooth is usually still priced on its own, so the total grows with the number removed.

Most dental plans include extractions, often as a basic service, though surgical cases may be grouped differently. Your deductible, coverage level and annual maximum decide what you pay. Ask your plan for a pre-treatment estimate before the extraction.

Yes, when you can. Choosing an implant, bridge or denture ahead of time can change how the tooth is removed and whether a bone graft makes sense. It also shows you the full cost of the gap from the start.

Temporary veneers are short term covers placed on prepared teeth while the lab makes your porcelain shells. They protect the teeth and may give you a preview of the planned shape. They are usually part of the porcelain process, but ask whether your quote includes them.

A cap, or crown, covers the whole tooth and suits teeth that are cracked, weak or heavily filled. A veneer covers only the front. Crowns that repair damage are more often partly covered by insurance, while veneers placed for appearance usually are not.

Yes. One veneer can hide a chip or a dark tooth. Matching a single veneer to the natural teeth beside it takes careful shade work, and sometimes whitening first. One tooth costs less overall than a set, though the planning is just as careful.

A dental lab makes each porcelain shell, which adds lab fees, and porcelain usually needs a preparation visit, temporaries and a placement visit. Composite is sculpted directly on your teeth, often in one visit.

Ask your plan administrator whether your HSA or FSA can be used for this. Ask before treatment starts, and ask separately about any fillings or gum care you need first. Ask our front desk for a written estimate that lists each step.

Porcelain tends to last longer than composite, while composite usually needs touch ups or replacement sooner. Your bite, any grinding and your home care all affect lifespan. Thinking about cost over time, not only the first bill, helps you pick the right material.