expert type icon EXPERT

Dr. Sam Akmakjian, DDS

Dentist

Dr. Sam Akmakjian is a Dentist practicing in Long Grove IL. Dr. Akmakjian specializes in preventing, diagnosing, and treating diseases and conditions associated with the mouth and overall dental health. Dentists are trained to carry out such treatment as professional cleaning, restorative, prosthodontic, and endodontic procedures, and performing examinations, among many others. Practicing the the most technologically advanced practice of dentistry.Specializing 
in the most complex cases and offering complete cosmetic dentistry including orthodontic services. Dental implants and complete full mouth restoration.Northwestern University Graduate in practice for 35 years.
40 years Experience
Dr. Sam Akmakjian, DDS
  • Long Grove, IL
  • Northwestern University Dental School
  • Accepting new patients

Can molars be replaced with implants?

Molars can be easily replaced with dental implants. The biggest consideration is the amount of bone available for the implant. Molars that have been missing for many years might READ MORE
Molars can be easily replaced with dental implants. The biggest consideration is the amount of bone available for the implant. Molars that have been missing for many years might have minimal bone and need bone grafting prior to implant placement.

How painful is a molar implant?

Dental implant surgery is relatively painless.You might have slight discomfort and inflammation.

Can cavities form under sealants?

Cavities can form under sealants and, unfortunately, if not properly diagnosed, a sealant might be placed over a tooth with an existing cavity. In these cases, the proper treatment READ MORE
Cavities can form under sealants and, unfortunately, if not properly diagnosed, a sealant might be placed over a tooth with an existing cavity. In these cases, the proper treatment would have been a minimally invasive filling rather than a sealant.

How long does dental bone graft take to heal?

There are a number of different types of bone grafting procedures. The most common ones are in extraction sockets, and those generally take 10-12 weeks. More advanced ridge augmenting READ MORE
There are a number of different types of bone grafting procedures. The most common ones are in extraction sockets, and those generally take 10-12 weeks. More advanced ridge augmenting grafts with cortical bone grafts take 8 months.

Does tooth sensitivity to cold mean a cavity?

Tooth sensitivity to cold is a common symptom. Sometimes it indicates a cavity. Many times, it may be related to gingival recession, meaning the gum tissue has receded and not READ MORE
Tooth sensitivity to cold is a common symptom. Sometimes it indicates a cavity. Many times, it may be related to gingival recession, meaning the gum tissue has receded and not a cavity. Sinusitis commonly causes upper posterior teeth to be sensitive to temperature.

How long does it take for amoxicillin to work for tooth pain?

There are a number of causes of tooth pain. If your tooth pain is due to a bacterial infection such as an abscess, then it generally takes 24-48 hrs to start to feel improvement READ MORE
There are a number of causes of tooth pain. If your tooth pain is due to a bacterial infection such as an abscess, then it generally takes 24-48 hrs to start to feel improvement in symptoms.

How long after a root canal should you get a permanent filling?

It is recommended that a permanent filling be placed as soon as possible following root canal procedure. It will minimize risk of reinfection of the treated tooth.

What's the difference between composite veneers and porcelain?

Composite veneers are made and sculpted by the dentist directly on tooth. They are quick and less expensive than porcelain veneers, which are made in a laboratory or are milled READ MORE
Composite veneers are made and sculpted by the dentist directly on tooth. They are quick and less expensive than porcelain veneers, which are made in a laboratory or are milled in the office. Composite veneers tend to stain over time, whereas porcelain veneers are much more aesthetic and will not stain. I always recommend porcelain veneers wherever possible. However, if financially not possible, composite veneers are a great option.

Can a dentist drill too deep?

A dentist is trained to know how and where to drill for various types of dental treatment. Unfortunately, like any profession, an incompetent dentist may drill deeper than is indicated READ MORE
A dentist is trained to know how and where to drill for various types of dental treatment. Unfortunately, like any profession, an incompetent dentist may drill deeper than is indicated for the specific treatment. Patients, however, sometimes don’t understand that the dentist has to remove all the decay and the extent of the decay is what determines how deep he needs to drill.

How long does it take to recover from laser gum surgery?

Laser gum surgery recovery is within 24-48 hrs. Should feel completely normal within a week following surgery.

How do you relieve pain from a dental bridge?

A dental bridge should be painful. The most common cause for discomfort is poor occlusion, which can be easily adjusted by the dentist. Other, more serious issues such as an infected READ MORE
A dental bridge should be painful. The most common cause for discomfort is poor occlusion, which can be easily adjusted by the dentist. Other, more serious issues such as an infected tooth or fractured tooth used as the supporting teeth for the bridge should be evaluated by your dentist.

Can I use mouthwash with a dental bridge?

Yes. Any type of mouthwash can be used with dental bridges.

Can you eat normally with dental bridges?

A dental bridge closely represents natural teeth and should be able to eat normally.

How soon after extraction can I get an implant?

10-12 weeks…. In some cases, an implant can be placed immediately following an extraction at the same appointment.

Why does my 5 year old have so many cavities?

There is a genetic component to teeth. However, poor oral hygiene and excess sugar intake can exasperate the genetic component. In young children and toddlers, nursing bottles READ MORE
There is a genetic component to teeth. However, poor oral hygiene and excess sugar intake can exasperate the genetic component. In young children and toddlers, nursing bottles filled with milk or juice is the greatest cause of excess cavities. You should never put you child to sleep with a bottle unless it is just plain water. Of course, if you live in a rural community where there is no fluoride in the drinking water, then you should supplement with fluoride drops as a lack of fluoride in drinking water makes teeth more susceptible to decay.

Is it necessary to get fillings in baby teeth?

Generally, the answer is definitively yes! It is very important to have baby teeth filled in order for proper orthodontic development of adult teeth. Obviously, a baby tooth that READ MORE
Generally, the answer is definitively yes! It is very important to have baby teeth filled in order for proper orthodontic development of adult teeth. Obviously, a baby tooth that is expected to fall out soon should be easily determined by your dentist as to the need for a filling. If a baby tooth is lost prematurely, then a space maintainer is necessary.

Can you get an infection after a deep cleaning?

You should be afraid of getting an infection by not getting a deep cleaning. It is extremely rare to get an infection as a result of the deep cleaning. Normally, patients are placed READ MORE
You should be afraid of getting an infection by not getting a deep cleaning. It is extremely rare to get an infection as a result of the deep cleaning. Normally, patients are placed on an antibiotic oral rinse after the procedure.

What helps a toothache from a sinus infection?

Antibiotics and a decongestant/over-the-counter allergy medication.