FAQ
Dental Checkups
What’s included in a dental checkup?
A typical checkup includes a professional cleaning, a comprehensive oral examination, and diagnostic X-rays if needed to assess your overall oral health.
How long does a dental checkup take?
Most checkups take about 45 minutes to an hour, depending on your specific needs and whether X-rays are required.
Do dental cleanings hurt?
Cleanings are generally painless. If you experience sensitivity, our hygienists use gentle techniques to ensure your comfort throughout the process.
How often should I schedule a dental checkup?
It’s recommended to see your dentist every six months for routine checkups and cleanings. Patients with specific conditions, like gum disease, may require more frequent visits.
Are dental checkups safe during pregnancy?
Yes, routine checkups are safe and encouraged during pregnancy. Maintaining good oral health during this time is essential for both maternal and fetal health.
Can dental checkups detect serious health problems?
Yes, dental exams can reveal signs of systemic health issues like diabetes, heart disease, and even certain cancers, allowing for early intervention.
Why are X-rays sometimes necessary during a checkup?
X-rays provide a detailed view of areas not visible during a standard exam, such as between teeth or beneath the gums, helping to detect issues like cavities, bone loss, or impacted teeth.
What happens if I skip a checkup?
Skipping dental visits can lead to plaque buildup, gum disease, and missed early detection of potential oral health issues, which may require more complex treatment later.
How do I prepare for a dental checkup?
Brush and floss your teeth before your appointment, and bring any questions, concerns, or updates about your medical or dental history to discuss with your dentist.
Are dental checkups covered by insurance?
Most insurance plans cover routine checkups and cleanings as part of preventive care. Contact your dental office to verify your coverage before your appointment.
Invisalign
How does Invisalign work?
Invisalign uses a series of clear aligners to gradually shift your teeth into the desired position.
How long does treatment take?
Most Invisalign treatments take 12-18 months, depending on the complexity of the case.
Is Invisalign painful?
While some mild discomfort is common when switching to a new aligner, it’s generally less painful than traditional braces.
Can I eat while wearing Invisalign?
No, aligners should be removed while eating to prevent damage and staining.
How often should I wear Invisalign aligners?
For optimal results, wear your aligners 20-22 hours a day, removing them only to eat, drink, and clean your teeth.
How do I clean my aligners?
Rinse them with lukewarm water and use a soft toothbrush to gently clean them. Avoid hot water, which can warp the aligners.
Can Invisalign fix severe alignment issues?
Invisalign is best for mild to moderate cases. Severe alignment issues may require alternative treatments.
Will insurance cover Invisalign?
Many insurance plans partially cover Invisalign. Our team can help you verify your benefits.
How often are check-ins required?
Typically, check-ins are scheduled every 6-8 weeks to monitor progress and provide new aligners.
What happens if I lose an aligner?
Contact our office immediately. We’ll work with you to get a replacement and ensure your treatment stays on track.
Veneers
How long do veneers last?
With proper care, veneers can last 10-15 years or more.
Are veneers noticeable?
No, veneers are designed to match your natural teeth in color, size, and shape, creating a seamless appearance.
Do veneers require special care?
Veneers are easy to maintain—just brush, floss, and schedule regular dental checkups as you would for your natural teeth.
Can veneers stain?
Porcelain veneers are highly resistant to staining, though maintaining good oral hygiene and avoiding excessive staining foods can help.
Are veneers permanent?
Veneers are a long-term solution, but they may require replacement after many years due to normal wear.
How many veneers do I need?
This depends on your goals. Some patients choose veneers for just one or two teeth, while others opt for a full set.
Are veneers painful to get?
The process is minimally invasive, and we prioritize your comfort throughout. Most patients report little to no discomfort.
Can veneers fix severely damaged teeth?
Veneers are best for cosmetic issues. Severely damaged teeth may require crowns or other restorative treatments.
How long does the veneer process take?
The process typically takes 2-3 visits over a few weeks.
Are veneers covered by insurance?
Veneers are usually considered cosmetic and may not be covered. Our team can discuss flexible financing options to make them affordable.
Dental Implants
How long do dental implants last?
With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime.
Is the implant procedure painful?
Most patients report minimal discomfort during the procedure, thanks to advanced anesthesia and sedation options.
What’s the recovery time for implants?
Initial healing takes about a week, but full integration with the jawbone can take 3-6 months.
Are dental implants safe?
Yes, dental implants are a well-established and safe solution for replacing missing teeth.
Can I get implants if I have bone loss?
Yes, bone grafting procedures can help rebuild sufficient bone to support implants.
How do I care for my dental implants?
Brush and floss regularly and attend routine dental checkups to maintain your implants.
Are implants covered by insurance?
Coverage varies, but many insurance plans contribute to part of the cost. Our team can help you navigate your benefits.
Do implants look natural?
Yes, implants are custom-designed to match the color, shape, and size of your natural teeth.
How many teeth can implants replace?
Implants can replace a single tooth, multiple teeth, or even an entire arch with implant-supported dentures.
What happens if my implant fails?
Implant failure is rare but can occur. In such cases, we’ll work with you to explore replacement options.
Teeth Whitening
How long do teeth whitening results last?
Results can last anywhere from six months to two years, depending on your diet and oral care habits.
Is teeth whitening safe?
Yes, professional whitening is safe when performed by a trained dental professional.
Does whitening damage enamel?
No, professional treatments are formulated to protect enamel while effectively removing stains.
Will whitening work on crowns or fillings?
Whitening treatments only work on natural teeth and will not change the color of crowns, veneers, or fillings.
How soon will I see results?
Most patients see noticeable improvements immediately after treatment.
Can whitening cause sensitivity?
Some patients experience temporary sensitivity, but this usually resolves within a few days.
How often can I whiten my teeth?
Professional whitening is typically safe to repeat every 6-12 months, depending on your needs.
Is whitening suitable for teens?
Teens may be candidates for whitening, but it’s best to consult with a dentist first to ensure safety.
Are at-home whitening kits effective?
While over-the-counter kits can provide some improvement, professional treatments offer faster, more dramatic results.
What if I’m not happy with the results?
We’ll work with you to achieve the brightness you desire, including follow-up treatments if necessary.
Emergency Dentistry
What is considered a dental emergency?
Severe pain, swelling, broken or knocked-out teeth, and infections requiring immediate care are all dental emergencies.
How quickly should I see a dentist for a knocked-out tooth?
Ideally, within 30 minutes to increase the chances of saving the tooth.
Is an emergency dental visit painful?
Emergency treatments are focused on relieving pain and discomfort, not causing it.
Can I go to the ER for a dental emergency?
ERs can provide temporary relief but typically don’t have the tools for definitive dental treatment. A dentist is the best choice.
How much does emergency dentistry cost?
Costs vary depending on the treatment, but our $39 emergency exam is a cost-effective way to start your care.
What should I do if my child has a dental emergency?
Contact us immediately for guidance. In the meantime, follow basic first-aid steps to minimize discomfort.
What if I have a dental emergency after hours?
Call our office—our voicemail or website will provide instructions for after-hours emergencies.
Can a broken tooth wait until my next appointment?
It depends on the severity. Contact us for advice to avoid complications.
How can I prevent dental emergencies during sports?
Wear a custom-fitted mouthguard to protect your teeth and jaw during physical activities.
Is swelling in the mouth always an emergency?
Swelling could indicate an infection or other serious issue—contact us right away to determine the cause and appropriate treatment.