- 4771 ROUTE 71, OSWEGO, IL 60543
- (630) 554-8600
In years past, patients could often face particular challenges during and after dental procedures. The issues frequently involved the limitations of traditional dental tools such as scalpels, rotary instruments and electrosurgery units.
Today, Oswego Dental Group removes many such challenges with a high-performance Picasso laser, an advanced diode laser system specifically designed for dentists.
Oswego Dental Group dentists use the Picasso dental diode laser system for soft-tissue applications. It is different from the diagnostic laser we use to painlessly detect tooth decay.
The diode laser focuses a concentrated light beam of multiple intensities through a fiber-optic tip. When the tip touches soft tissue, the tissue absorbs the light energy, which heats and cuts the tissue. The laser also seals the tissue by cauterizing it, reducing bleeding and pain.
With the non-invasive diode laser, we can:
precisely cut, remove or vaporize soft tissue without stitches
coagulate blood vessels
sterilize treatment areas
reduce bacteria inflammation
limit procedural swelling
reduce or eliminate the need for anesthesia
contribute to swifter healing and less downtime for patients
Common procedures for which we use the Picasso laser at higher intensities include:
Some patients also can achieve relief from aphthous ulcers (canker sores) through multiple rounds of low-intensity diode laser therapy.
Introduced by AMD Lasers in 2009, the Picasso laser quickly became one of the world’s most widely used lasers for general and cosmetic dentistry.
Prior to the diode laser, dental patients often contended with:
Unease
Scalpel-based procedures involved cutting soft tissue, which was invasive and painful.
Patients often needed injections for local anesthesia, which could further raise discomfort and anxiety. Some patients might have delayed or avoided treatment for this reason as well.
Post-operative pain and swelling also could be more pronounced because of tissue trauma.
More bleeding
Scalpel incisions often caused notable bleeding during dental procedures.
Extra bleeding could obscure the field of vision for the dentist, prolonging procedures.
The bleeding could be especially problematic for patients who had a bleeding disorder or took blood thinners.
Longer healing time
The tissue damage that could accompany traditional procedures sometimes resulted in slower healing, higher risk of bacterial infection and additional post-op complications.
Sutures
Many soft-tissue surgeries required sutures (stitches) to close incisions.
In addition to being uncomfortable, sutures increased healing time and often required a follow-up visit for removal.
Limited treatment options
Some minimally invasive or cosmetic soft-tissue treatments, such as gingival recontouring, could be time-consuming and, for some, seen as too unpleasant to justify.
Dentistry has long been a crucial practice but also one that had been associated with distress. The dentists at Oswego Dental Group represent the profession’s goal to offer ever-improving dental care in ways that provide swifter treatments with less pain, discomfort and recovery time.
To achieve this, our dentists seek resources that save time, enhance patient-treatment flow and reduce post-op complications. Other dental lasers had preceded the Picasso laser, but many were expensive, complex to operate and often reserved for expensive procedures.
The Picasso dental laser allows us to efficiently treat oral soft issues without steep learning curves and major capital investments. Premium laser technology is now a part of affordable everyday dental practice that improves patient outcomes.
Dental diode lasers also only continue to get better. Since the launch of the original Picasso laser in 2009, other models with upgraded features and usability were introduced in the 2010s. In the 2020s, the lasers are being used even more for dental hygiene. The diode lasers’ global adoption continues as well.
Diode Laser: Patient Benefits
Cauterization of blood vessels as the laser cuts, resulting in little to no bleeding
Sterilization of the treatment site, reducing bacterial load and enhancing results, especially in periodontal therapy
Less trauma to tissues, leading to quicker healing and less swelling after treatment
Diode Laser: Practice Benefits
Enhanced efficiency with safer, cleaner, more-accurate incisions; versatility for a wide range of treatments without the need for outside referral
User-friendly design with features such as wireless foot controls and intuitive touchscreens that simplify operation
Improved patient experience leading to higher patient satisfaction
Here’s a side-by-side comparison of how patients often anticipated dental visits before and after diode lasers such as the Picasso laser became part of modern dentistry.
Aspect | Diode Laser | Traditional Methods |
Tools used | Soft-tissue diode laser | Scalpels, electrosurgery units, dental drills |
Anesthesia | Often minimal or unnecessary | Often required, even minor procedures |
Pain & discomfort | Reduced pain, less tissue trauma | More post-op pain (cuts, inflammation) |
Bleeding | Minimal to none | Common during and after |
Healing time | Faster | Longer |
Infection risk | Lower (laser sterilizes tissue) | Higher (open wounds, more exposure) |
Sutures | Rare | Frequent for closing incisions |
Procedure time | Shorter | Longer (prep, bleeding control, suturing) |
Noise/Vibration | Quiet, vibration-free | Noisy drills and electrosurgery |
Anxiety Level | Lower (fewer invasive steps) | Higher (needles, cutting, bleeding) |
Kids & special needs | Better tolerated (gentler approach) | Difficult to manage behaviorally |
At Oswego Dental Group, we always strive to support your best oral health and your optimal smile with the most effective resources available. If you would ever like to discuss how we make dental procedures even more comfortable, quick and pain-free, including with the Picasso dental laser, we welcome you to call us at (630) 554-8600.
The first dental laser for soft-tissue procedures was approved by the FDA in 1989, a few decades after Theodore Maiman’s 1960 invention of the first ruby laser (Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation). Maiman’s laser was too powerful to use for dental tissues, but it inspired the concepts for the dental and medical lasers that would follow.
Very competent and friendly staff! They explain in detail what they are doing.
- Jo M 05/20/2025My grandfather came to this location and they treated us good. My grandfather was happy with the results and will be coming here again! Very friendly staff!
- Marlen T 05/19/2025Pam does a great job.
- Dave P 05/12/2025My appointments always run smoothly. With their help, my teeth have been in great shape. Have been going there for more than 20 years.
- Sharlene M 05/06/2025Professionals in every way!!
- Dennis R 05/06/2025What Our Patients Say
- Ken K 05/06/2025Very friendly and professional
- Chris B 04/29/2025APPOINTMENTS WITH DR MILAZZO & PAM ARE ALWAYS A PLEASURE. I FEEL COMFORTABLE & ALWAYS GET THE BEST DENTAL CARE WITH THEM.
- Doug R 04/28/2025My scheduled preventive dental care visit with Dr. Macdonald and Pam was great.
- Cristina V 04/23/2025Always a great experience at Dr. MacDonald’s office.
- Bryan R 04/09/2025The staff at Oswego Dental are very friendly and accommodating. They are also very knowledgeable and efficient.
Dr. MacDonald is the best dentist I’ve ever had. I’d travel many miles to see him (and I actually do). Cheryl was my hygienist on my most recent visit and she was wonderful!
Always efficient and clean, this office works well to make each patient feel important. Dr. Milazzo is very thorough and kind, and Pam is the best hygienist I have ever had. very happy with this dental group!
- Donna B 04/07/2025As usual, the services provided were exceptional. The people were friendly, professional and a joy to work with.
- Andy G 04/02/2025Amy was great! Dr. Milazzo was awesome as well. I always have a painless and great experience at Oswego Dental.
- Denise J 04/01/2025I am so glad to have Dr. MacDonald and Cheryl as my dentist and hygienist. They are very thorough and also very pleasant. I am pleased to recommend them to others.
- Kathy D 03/31/2025Do good work and are very courteous.
- Stanley S 03/25/2025Love this dentist, but especially Amy, one of the hygienists there. She is personable, quick and caring.
- Michelle H 03/19/2025This was my third visit. Very professional and friendly. I’m glad I made the switch.
- Martha I 03/18/2025Cheryl was very personable and professional!
- Jeanne P 03/12/2025Excellent care as always
- Cheryl J 03/12/2025Always a great experience.
- Julie C 03/12/2025When my dentist of many years retired, I knew I would have to find another one to replace him. I had a “fear” of dentists, and I didn’t want to just randomly call another one. I searched online and read many, many reviews of other dentists, but I kept coming back to the Oswego Dental Group. The reviews were all five stars, and I thought to myself if even HALF the reviews are accurate, I’ll start there. But I wasn’t in a hurry…….who actually loves going to the dentist? I didn’t! Then I cracked a tooth a few weeks ago and knew I had to get it taken care of. I called Oswego Dental Group to set up an appointment on 2/25 and they fit me in on 2/26. From the moment I walked into the building until I left an hour and a half later, I realized the reviews I’d read were 100% spot on! I’m not familiar enough with everyone there to know all their names yet, but the dental assistant I had was absolutely wonderful in every possible way. Her sense of professionalism mixed with light hearted humor put me at ease immediately. Dr. MacDonald was the same ~ very professional, but with a good mix of humor, too. He checked out the tooth that I’d cracked and explained everything clearly to me. I walked out of there with a temporary crown on my tooth while a new one is being made. For someone who was once fearful of dentists, I have zero hesitation or concern of returning to Oswego Dental Group in a few weeks for the final crown to be put on my tooth. I was warmly greeted by staff members the moment I walked in the door, and felt the same sense of caring until the moment left. I would 100% recommend Oswego Dental Group to anyone ~ ESPECIALLY to anyone who has any hesitation about needing dental work!
- Kathy P 02/26/2025I have been going to this for 54.5 years
The practice was taken over by the Dr Malazzo from my dear friend Dr Devol.
Dr surrounds himself with a good staff .
Very thankful.
Excellent experience
- Jane W 02/18/2025Quick and painless. Dental hygienist was polite, professional, and thorough.
- Jerry S 02/13/2025Dr. MacDonald is such an amazing dentist and the staff is so kind. I’ve had nothing but great experiences here at the office and I’m so thankful to have found such a wonderful place!
- Brittney V 02/13/2025Excellent service, great hygienist
- John A 02/11/2025Great experience,very knowledgeable,clean,very professional staff,.and the Real Reason I have stayed with DrMilazzo is back in the Day I broke a tooth off he was just starting out, it was late in the day ,He got me in took the pain away set me up a tooth that is still in today..so I thought if the service is this great why call anyone else.. Fantastic staff always friendly and Pam does an awesome job cleaning my Family’s teeth…
- John W 02/10/2025Pam is an excellent dental tech. Though the years she has been a joy to visit and talk with . I look forward to my dental cleaning’s. She is truly a bright spot in my visits.
The office staff is friendly and bright spot in my day as well as Pam.
Everyone I met at Oswego Dental Group was fantastic! They greeted me warmly and were courteous and professional throughout. I am new to the area and I am so happy to find this group.
- Sherry S 01/22/2025Excellent professional and friendly service.
- Victor M 01/22/2025Very timely and professional each time! Love coming to Oswego Dental Group!
- Peter R 01/16/2025I can not say enough good things about Dr. Milazzo and his staff. I receive excellent care and kindness. I am a long-time satisfied customer and I appreciate every one for their efforts.
- Craig W 01/07/2025Great service. Always a friendly and professional experience.
- Rick L 01/07/2025Pam my dental hygienist did a wonderful job as always.
- John S 01/07/2025Sally was so thorough in her cleaning & very knowledgeable. She’s so friendly! Dr. Milazzo is so kind and gentle. He doesn’t make me feel rushed ever.
- Julie B 12/30/2024Can’t say enough about their service. Everyone is great.
- Bernie V 12/30/2024Veronica did a very thorough job cleaning my teeth! I always get great services at Oswego Dental Group and the staff is very competent and friendly.
- Eileen O 12/19/2024Great experience and personal attention to detail.
- Thomas M 12/07/2024I love my dental hygienist! Very nice, great conversation and no pain cleaning!!!
- Kevin J 11/25/2024Excellent comprehensive dental care. A great team effort, especially Dr. MacDonald.
- Nancy M 11/25/2024Great staffing and service.
- Eddie C 11/25/2024Great care & service
- Philip B 11/13/2024My first visit was very professional from beginning to end.
Dr. MacDonald was kind, considerate, and skillful. What more
could you ask for?
They’re always so thorough and attentive. We drive from a few towns over to continue dental care here.
- Mike C 10/28/2024The staff was very attentive and helped make my daughter feel comfortable for her first ever visit. They were patient and very friendly.
- Sarah S 10/28/2024Gentle cleaning, friendly, patient staff.
- Tammy L 10/23/2024My son is a patient at the clinic He is on the autism spectrum. The staff do a fantastic job working with him. Explaining what to expect and letting him feel some of the sensations on his hand before they use the equipment. They are patient and kind to both of us. Thank you for your great care.
- Chris B 09/25/2024We had a wonderful experience with Dr Milazzo and Ann. I called to ask for a consultation and got an appointment the next morning. Upon arriving we were greeted and shown to the back. My husband (70 yrs old) had a baby tooth that needed to be pulled but he is on blood thinners and has an LVAD (heart pump) and we always encounter people not wanting to help him because of his medical condition. But Dr Milazzo and his assistant Ann were like a breath of fresh air! They took great care of my husband and he got in there and pulled the tooth without a problem. It was amazing to be in a dentist office with such caring kind professional’s. We have found our dentist.
Thank you so much Anthony Milazzo and Ann for taking such great care of my husband.
As usual, the services provided were exceptional. The people were friendly, professional and a joy to work with.
- Andy G. 09/25/2024I had need for emergency dental work when part of my front tooth broke off. Dr. MacDonald and his staff provided outstanding same day care and restored my broken tooth that very afternoon. Now my teeth look perfectly and just as nice as they did before the incident. Thanks Dr. MacDonald for your competent and caring service.
- Thomas S. 09/19/2024Another awesome experience at Oswego Dental Group! They are worth the hour drive I travel to get there.
- Tina D. 09/17/2024What a pleasant office. Friendly, courteous, jovial, and always on time to take patients in back. So nice to see someone respects the patients time! The staff never lets me down and professionalism is second to none.
- Marty S. 09/17/2024Always a wonderful visit , love Pam and Dr Tony!!!!
- Michelle F. 08/20/2024Friendly staff and I love the technology reminders, best dental group ever!
- Doro S. 08/19/2024Dr. Milazzo and staff are just wonderful! They fit you in right away and take such good care of their clients!
- Jennifer E. 08/13/2024Scheduled appointment completed on time with no waiting. Staff were courteous and professional.
- Les N 08/13/2024Quick and painless. Dental hygienist was polite, professional, and thorough.
- Jerry S 08/07/20245/5 Stars – Phenomenal and Exceptional Care!
I am still in awe of the incredible experience I had at Dr. Milazzo Dentistry! When a sudden dental emergency arose, their front office team sprang into action, while working diligently to fit me in within hours – a true lifesaver!
Dr. Milazzo exceeded all expectations with his:
*Unparalleled expertise*: He explained everything with clarity and precision, putting my mind at ease.
*Unwavering patience*: He took the time to address all my concerns and questions.
*Genuine kindness*: His compassion and empathy made me feel valued and cared for while he took his time.
Within just one hour, Dr. Milazzo had me fixed up and smiling again! I am forever grateful for his exceptional skill and dedication.
The Oswego Dental Group shines brightly thanks to Dr. Milazzo and his team! Their commitment to delivering top-notch care, compassion especially in emergent situations, is truly heartwarming. If you are seeking a trustworthy and compassionate dental practice, look no further!
Thank you, Dr. Milazzo, for being an angel in disguise!* Your kindness, expertise, and dedication have earned you a patient for life!
- E H 07/30/2024Thank you so much! My visit was what I expected, I have heard wonderful praises for your complete staff. Thank you!
- Judy M 07/22/2024I am always treated very well at Dr. Milazzo’s office. Excellent
dentistry, compassionate and kind professionals are all part of his practice.
I have been seeing Dr Milazzo for over 40
Years. Everyone is professional and friendly.
This was a first visit for me. Very professional and friendly. I’m glad I made the switch.
- Martha I 07/03/2024Excellent service.
- Sandy H 06/26/2024Fast, friendly, and knowledgeable care given.
- Pat F 06/18/2024Amy was wonderful and professional!
- Cheryl J 06/11/2024Pam is great!
- Judi B 05/20/2024Excellent comprehensive dental care. A great team effort, especially Dr. MacDonald.
- Nancy M 05/20/2024Amazing staff who all do a stellar job
- Mike C 05/16/2024The office, hygienists and dentists are all fantastic. Always a pleasant experience. Everyone is friendly and makes you feel welcomed and comfortable.
- Loreta S 05/15/2024Staff are so pleasant and are able to put you at ease. I had X-rays and that also went very smoothly.
- Jaye T 05/08/2024I used to not be a fan of going to the dentist…was just a necessary evil that I knew had to be done. Not the case here. Everyone we’ve dealt with has been great. Highly recommend them.
- Rob P 04/16/2024Dr Milazzo is fabulous! I was in the chair for two hours and he is soo excellent and gentle but precise I almost fell asleep! His coworkers that assist him are just as awesome!
- Peggy L 03/13/2024I had my teeth cleaned, xrays, and checked. They did a thorough job and I was very happy with the experience. I would recommend Oswego Dental Group.
- Carla H 03/27/2024I used to not be a fan of going to the dentist…was just a necessary evil that I knew had to be done. Not the case here. Everyone we’ve dealt with has been great. Highly recommend them.
- Rob P 03/18/2024Dr Milazzo is fabulous! I was in the chair for two hours and he is soo excellent and gentle but precise I almost fell asleep! His coworkers that assist him are just as awesome!
- Peggy L 03/18/2024Great care as always. A little nervous about a procedure – but Dr. MacDonald and his assistant were great!
- Jim C 02/02/2024This is a wonderful dental office, I have been going here for years. Pam is amazing. Dentists are great. I would highly recommend!
- Leslie E 01/16/2024For the past twenty (20) years, the Oswego Dental Group has been my go to for all dental treatment needs. I have found that they consistently improve by providing excellent treatment using the most up-to-date practice tools and technologies. Additionally, the Staff from the front office to technicians are the best with a special shout-out to Pam.
- Roger B 01/09/2024Dr. Milazzo and his staff were very attentive to my situation and were willing to make time for me the day I called. I would highly recommend Oswego Dental Group.
- Gail KOur family needed to find a new dentist since ours retired. We were going to him for over 35 years so picking a new office was a little nerve racking. From the very beginning the office made us feel very welcome. My children were very nervous at first but the moment the hygienists called their names the nerves faded since they were both very warm, friendly and caring. They were even comfortable enough to go by themselves.
I also had Amy for my appointment the next week and she was excellent. Also, Dr. Milazzo was great as well. I highly recommend Oswego Dental Group!
Dr. MacDonald is very personable and offers all treatment options! He makes dental visits less stressful! I highly recommend him!
- Eileen O 12/26/2023My appointments always run smoothly. With their help, my teeth have been in great shape. Have been going there for more than 20 years.
- Sharlene MThanks Pam. Always does an outstanding job. Pam is very friendly and makes it a great experience. My teeth look great.
- Steve O 12/13/2023From the start to finish true professionals, Dr.Milazzo explained every step, he made you feel at ease during the procedure.
- Christopher A 09/06/2023Another great experience at Oswego Dental! Sally and Dr. MacDonald are amazing!
- Tina DAlways have the utmost faith in Dr. Milazzo’s dental skills and his staff is always so friendly and professional.
- Nancy H 08/22/2023Always very professional and friendly. Been coming here 30 years — the best!
- Cheryl J 09/05/2023I’m grateful and thankful, everything was fine. Service was great, I had issue with my tooth and now I feel perfect. Thanks to doctor Tony 🙏
- Tina K 05/24/2023Dr. Milazzo was amazing with my 7 year old daughter. She got her first filling done and I loved that he spoke to HER (as the patient) and not just me. He showed her what everything did and sounded like before he started. He also explained what everything was that was going in her mouth. I was very impressed with how everything went! The dental hygienists are also amazing!
- Lindsay C 06/13/2023I’ve been going to Oswego Dental for 20+ years. Not your typical Dentist Office that you dread to go to. Warm and welcoming with a great staff! Amy, Pam and Sally are the best!
- Bryan C 01/26/2023Very happy with my care at this office. I have not had a hygienist or dentist at this office that hasn’t treated me very compassionately and professionally. Have been a patient here over 30 years!
- Tom B. 07/13/2022Teeth look amazing!!! I would highly recommend Oswego Dental Group if you are looking to have work done!
- David L. 05/23/2022Super friendly and very professional. My whole family have been patients there for many years. Wouldn’t think of going anywhere else.
- Kevin O. 04/15/2022I have been going to Oswego Dental Group for years. They are excellent. Pam has been my hygienist and she is thorough, extremely professional and very kind. My family and I highly recommend this dental office.
- Wendy K. 04/11/2022Our family has been seen by this practice for many years. Always professional and thorough. They have taken great care of us! Highly recommend!
- Susan R. 01/25/2022Dr. Milazzo and Dr. MacDonald are awesome!! So glad I found them after I moved to their area. They are the best. Pam cleans my teeth and she is wonderful, painless too! They take very good care of my teeth! If you are looking for a new Dentist and a good office, then this place is for you!
- Marion G. 06/24/2021Dr Milazzo, Sally and the whole staff are the best. THE BEST. I was a mess and had been in pain for a long time before finally finding Dr. Milazzo. I spent a lot of time and a lot of money going to another dentist that just kept making everything worse…I was literally living on protien drinks because it hurt too much to chew. It took a little time (I needed a lot of work done) but Dr Milazzo fixed everything and I can finally eat again. I’m forever grateful for Oswego Dental Group and would without hesitation recommend them.
- Sonya 05/25/2021Great experience! Amy did a great job cleaning my teeth and Dr. MacDonald was also professional and very thorough and helped me understand what treatment options were available to me. I highly recommend this dental practice!
- Kristina L. 02/23/2021Oswego Dental Group has a staff of kind and caring hygienists and the entire staff does a great job of keeping the entire office clean and safe for people coming in as well as for themselves.
- Karen A. 12/28/2020Dr. Milazzo’s dental office is fabulous!!! Very patient friendly!! Sally my dental hygienist is awesome!! Very personable, thorough and gentle!! I love the way you feel after a cleaning! I would not go anywhere else!!
- Cheryl K. 09/22/2020I have been a dental patient at the Oswego Dental Group for nearly 15 years and have always been very happy with the care that I have received. Dr MacDonald and all of the hygienists I have ever had are fantastic people and do a great job on my teeth! Love coming here!
- Susan E. 08/18/2020Very friendly staff and professional. Always a great experience.
- Kristine F. 04/09/2020Always a great experience.
- John S. 02/09/2020I love going to my dentist! For 13 years I have never been disappointed and I greatly appreciate how personable and kind the Hygenists have always been! Today my visit was with Pam. I appreciate the time she took to ask how My family and I were going. Dr, MacDonald also took the time to explain a small upcoming procedure I would be having and in doing so put my doubts at ease! Thank you!!!!
- Jeanne P. 02/08/2020Best dentist experience. Everyone from the receptionist to Dr Milazzo and Dr Macdonald are very friendly. Pam is an amazing dental hygienist. She is absolutely fantastic. Extremely thorough and friendly. I’m sure everyone is great as well but I’ve only had the pleasure of having my teeth cleaned by Pam and have no need to search elsewhere. Thanks everyone at Oswego Dental Group for making my dental visit a good one.
- Ryan I. 08/17/2019