Meet Dr. John Conness
Dr. Conness is a licensed Illinois general dentist who has been performing implant and surgical procedures for over 30 years. Dr. Conness and his staff are committed to offering every patient the very best dental care currently available to the dental profession.
Our goal is to tailor treatment to meet the patient’s individual desires, goals, and expectations. Dr. Conness has presented many educational programs in the areas of implant surgical dentistry and implant restorative dentistry.
In order provide the best treatment, Dr. Conness has dedicated himself to continuing his education and as of now, has completed thousands of hours to that purpose.
Professional Credentials
- Fellow of Academy of General Dentistry, 1992
- Chicago Dental Society Associate Member
- Advanced Dental Studies, The Dawson Center
- Faculty Award Recipient, Resnik International Implant Institute
- Graduate, Misch Resnik International Implant Institute Surgical Program (2006, 2007)
- Graduate, Misch Resnik International Implant Institute Prosthetic Program (2007)
- Misch Resnik Institute Faculty (2007 – 2022)
- American Dental Association
- Academy of General Dentistry
- Illinois State Dental Society
- Vice-President, (1990-92)
- President, (1992-94)
- Program Chairman, (1995-97)
- American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry
- Fellow Academy of General Dentistry, (1992)
- Supporting Member of the American Academy of Implant Dentistry
- Fellow International Congress of Oral Implantologists, (2006)
- Diplomate Certificate – International Congress of Oral Implantologists, (2012)
- Fellow Misch Resnik International Implant Institute, (2007)
- Misch Resnik International Implant Institute Mastership Award, (2007)
- Misch Resnik International Implant Institute/Temple University Faculty Member, (2007 – Present)
- Misch Resnik International Implant Institute Mastership Award, (2007)
Introducing Our Dental Staff
Our professional staff at John M. Conness, DDS, FAGD, FICOI, DICOI are all highly accredited and are dedicated to maintaining their knowledge by pursuing ongoing education. Our main goal is to remain on top of the latest dentistry innovations in order to provide exceptional care to all our current and future patients.
Amanda – Office Manager
Amanda was born and raised in Streator and graduated from Woodland High School. After high school, she attended Illinois Valley Community College and graduated as a Certified Dental Assistant. She then relocated to the Oswego area and worked as a Dental assistant and as a Front Office Coordinator up there for several years until moving back to Streator to be closer to her family, friends, and community. As an Office Manager, she enjoys working with people in her community to ensure that all of their dental needs are met so they in have a healthy, beautiful smile!
In Amanda’s spare time she loves spending time with family and friends and enjoys playing cards, traveling and boating.
Beth – Office Manager
Beth has over 20 years of experience in the dentistry field and has been a staff at John M. Conness, DDS, FAGD, FICOI, DICOI for two decades. Throughout her career, she has helped with multiple aspects of running the office and has dedicated her time to helping patients get the most out of their dental experience.
Beth enjoys being involved in her community and finds joy in helping others live healthier happier lives.
Mary Lu C. – Sedation Nurse/RN
Mary Lu has 40+ Years in nursing! Bio coming soon…
Jill N. – Sedation Nurse/BSN
Bio coming soon…
Amy – Dental Assistant
I have been a dental assistant for over 15 years. I have enjoyed working with patients to continually improve their dental health. My goal is to always make the patient feel comfortable in the dental environment. I encourage all of our patients to feel free to take an active part in their dental treatment & dental health.
My husband is Eric and we have one son, Kyle, who has served our country in the United States Air Force.
Paula – Dental Assistant
Paula graduated from IVCC Dental Assisting program in 1983 and has been assisting Dr. Conness for the past 25 years. Her main goal is to help patients feel comfortable and happy during their treatment. One of her many specialties includes helping patients decide between nitrous oxide sedation or oral sedation.
Paul has been married to Jeff for 30 years and as a result, has two daughters named Carleigh and Whitney. On her down time Paula enjoys gardening, boating, and camping.
Kathleen – Dental Assistant
I am the newest member to Dr. Conness’ team. I started my new career in January of 2016.
I am enjoying my new career and learning every aspect of dentistry. I live in Grand Ridge with my husband, son, and two step daughters. We are very active in our church and enjoy spending time together as a family. I look forward to my future working for Dr. Conness and with his wonderful team!
Tanya – Dental Hygienist
Tanya Jacobs is a highly skilled and dedicated dental professional with over 20 years of experience in the dental field. Graduating with honors from the dental hygiene program at ICC in 2008, she embarked on a journey of compassion and care, providing exemplary oral health services to her patients. Throughout her career, Tanya has demonstrated a genuine passion for helping patients achieve optimal oral care.
As a dental hygienist, Tanya takes pride in educating her patients on the importance of oral hygiene and its impact on overall health. Her warm and empathetic approach creates a comfortable environment, putting even the most anxious patients at ease.
Tanya grew up in Streator and resides with her husband and three children. During her free time Tanya enjoys spending quality time with her family, reading, running and baking.
Catina – Dental Hygienist
Catina has over 20 years of experience in the dental field. She has worked for Dr. Conness for over 15 years. She is a graduate of Illinois Central College in Peoria, IL. Upon graduating from ICC, Catina was presented with the Hu-Freidy “Golden Scaler” award. This is an annual national award honoring one hygiene student from the graduating class that displays outstanding qualities in rendering patient care as well as academic excellence.
Catina is described by fellow team members as having a friendly and outgoing personality. When asked why she enjoys her career, Catina replied “I enjoy educating patients on their oral hygiene. Including teaching the patient how to perform regular preventative care in between visits. I want them to have confidence in their smile.” Catina resides with her husband Dean, their daughters Claire and Allison, and their Bullmastiff.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it better to see a dentist or dental surgeon for dental implants?
When choosing a dental implant provider, it’s best to research oral surgeons near you who offer implant restorations. While general dentists can place implant posts, they don’t have the same expertise as dental surgeons.
Dr. Conness has years of education in oral surgery techniques, including as a graduate of several Misch Resnik Implant Institute programs where he was also recognized with a Mastership award. This unique experience means he can incorporate state-of-the-art dental technology into your treatment for unmatched precision. Unlike most general dentists, our implant surgeon can also perform supplemental procedures at our Ottawa office for your convenience.
What questions should I ask my dental implant provider?
If you’re looking for an implant provider, we recommend you interview them before continuing treatment to ensure they can meet all of your dental needs. Some examples of questions you can ask include:
- How long have you been practicing?
- How many dental implants have you placed?
- Where did you study?
- Do you hold any advanced certifications?
- What professional associations are you a member of?
- Have you received any awards or honors?
- Can you show me patient reviews and before-and-after photos?
Why should I choose Dr. Conness as my dental implant provider?
When it comes to dental implant providers, Dr. Conness is the best dentist in North Central Illinois for your procedure. Not only does he have over 25 years of experience in dentistry, but he’s also continuing his dental education to provide patients with the best possible dental care.
Dr. Conness also received the 2012 International Congress of Oral Implantologist (ICOI) Diplomate status, awarded to less than one percent of practicing implant dentists. He also has several professional dentistry credentials, including a fellowship at the International Congress of Oral Implantologists and the Misch Resnik International Implant Institute.
What sets your practice apart from the rest?
As an integral member of the American Academy of Implant Dentistry and previous fellow of the Misch Resnik International Implant Institute, Dr. Conness and our dental team strives to provide patients with a personalized, friendly approach to implant dentistry. Regardless of the severity of your tooth loss-related issues, our dentists have just the implant solution for you performed with the aid of advanced dental technology. We also offer dental sedation methods, and can perform supplemental procedures in our Ottawa office.
When you choose Dr. Conness as your dental implant provider in Ottawa, IL, you’re choosing an experienced, friendly dental professional who’ll customize your treatment plan with your needs in mind. Schedule a consultation today by calling our office at 815-324-2550.