Frequently Asked Questions
Dental Checkups
What payment options do you offer?
We accept various payment methods, including cash, credit cards, and CareCredit. We also offer flexible financing options through Alphaeon and Cherry to make dental care affordable.
Are dental X-rays safe?
Yes, our digital X-rays use minimal radiation while providing highly detailed images. We only take X-rays when necessary for your dental care.
Can I schedule appointments for my whole family together?
Yes, we offer family scheduling to make dental care more convenient for busy families.
What happens if I need additional treatment?
We'll provide a detailed treatment plan with all options and costs, helping you make an informed decision about your dental care.
Do you see children?
Yes, we welcome patients of all ages and make dental visits fun and educational for children.
How long does a dental checkup take?
A typical checkup appointment takes about 60 minutes. We respect your time and strive to maintain an efficient schedule.
What if I have dental anxiety?
We offer several comfort options including blankets, pillows, and entertainment options. For more anxious patients, we provide sedation options to ensure a relaxing experience.
How often should I schedule a dental checkup?
Most patients should visit every six months for optimal oral health. However, some may need more frequent visits based on their specific dental needs.
Does insurance cover regular checkups?
Most dental insurance plans cover preventive care like regular checkups. We accept many major PPO plans and will help you understand your coverage.
What if you find a cavity during my checkup?
If we detect a cavity, we'll discuss treatment options immediately and can often provide same-day treatment if desired.
Dental Implants
How do I care for my dental implants?
Dental implants require the same care as natural teeth: regular brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings.
What alternatives are there to dental implants?
Alternative options include traditional bridges and removable dentures, though implants offer the most permanent and natural-feeling solution.
What makes someone a good candidate for implants?
Good candidates have adequate bone density, healthy gums, and are committed to maintaining good oral hygiene.
How soon can I eat after getting implants?
Soft foods can be eaten immediately after the procedure, with a gradual return to normal diet as healing progresses.
What is the success rate of dental implants?
Dental implants have a success rate of over 95% when placed by experienced professionals using proper techniques and technology.
How long does the implant process take?
While some patients qualify for same-day implants, traditional implant treatment typically takes 3-6 months from start to finish.
Can I get implants if I have gum disease?
Active gum disease must be treated before implant placement. We offer comprehensive periodontal care to prepare you for implants.
Are dental implants covered by insurance?
Many dental insurance plans provide partial coverage for implants. We accept most major PPO plans and offer flexible financing options.
Is the dental implant procedure painful?
We ensure your comfort throughout the procedure using local anesthesia and sedation options. Most patients report minimal discomfort during recovery.
How long do dental implants last?
With proper care and maintenance, dental implants can last a lifetime. The crown portion may need replacement after 10-15 years due to normal wear and tear.
Invisalign
What happens after Invisalign treatment?
We'll provide a custom retainer to maintain your new smile and prevent teeth from shifting.
How often are check-up appointments?
Most patients visit us every 6-8 weeks to monitor progress and receive new sets of aligners.
Am I a candidate for Invisalign?
Most teens and adults with mild to moderate orthodontic issues are candidates for Invisalign.
Will Invisalign affect my speech?
Minor speech changes may occur initially but typically resolve within a few days.
Can I eat and drink with Invisalign?
Remove aligners while eating and drinking anything besides water to prevent staining and damage.
How do I clean my aligners?
Clean aligners daily with lukewarm water and gentle soap or specialized Invisalign cleaning solutions.
How much does Invisalign cost?
Treatment cost varies based on complexity. We offer flexible payment plans and work with most major insurance providers.
How often should I wear my aligners?
For optimal results, wear your aligners 20-22 hours per day, removing them only for eating, drinking, and oral hygiene.
Is Invisalign painful?
Most patients experience minimal discomfort that subsides within a few days of wearing new aligners.
How long does Invisalign treatment take?
Treatment typically takes 12-18 months, though timing varies based on individual needs.
Veneers
Are veneers covered by insurance?
As a cosmetic procedure, veneers are typically not covered by insurance. We offer flexible financing options.
Can veneers be repaired if damaged?
While minor repairs are possible, significantly damaged veneers usually need replacement.
Are veneers stain-resistant?
Porcelain veneers are highly resistant to staining and maintain their bright appearance for years.
How do I care for my veneers?
Maintain regular oral hygiene and dental visits. Avoid using abrasive toothpaste and hard-bristled brushes.
Can I eat normally with veneers?
Yes, you can enjoy most foods. We recommend avoiding excessive force and very hard items.
How many appointments are needed?
The process typically requires 2-3 appointments from consultation to final placement.
Is the procedure painful?
Most patients experience minimal discomfort. We use local anesthetic and offer sedation options for your comfort.
Will veneers look natural?
Our custom-crafted veneers are designed to match your natural teeth in color, shape, and translucency.
Are veneers permanent?
Yes, veneers are a permanent solution as a small amount of enamel must be removed for placement.
How long do veneers last?
With proper care and maintenance, porcelain veneers typically last 10-15 years or longer.
Teeth Whitening
What's the difference between professional and over-the-counter whitening?
Professional whitening uses stronger agents and custom-fitted trays for better results in less time, with professional supervision for safety and comfort.
How should I maintain my results?
We'll provide specific care instructions and may recommend touch-up treatments to maintain your bright smile.
Can I whiten my teeth if I have dental work?
Existing dental work won't respond to whitening treatments. We'll discuss options for achieving a uniform smile.
Is teeth whitening covered by insurance?
As a cosmetic procedure, teeth whitening is typically not covered by insurance. We offer various financing options to help make treatment affordable.
How white will my teeth get?
Results vary, but most patients see improvements of several shades. We'll discuss realistic expectations during your consultation.
Can all types of stains be removed?
While most external stains respond well to whitening, some internal stains may require alternative treatments.
Will whitening make my teeth sensitive?
Some patients may experience temporary sensitivity, which typically resolves within 24-48 hours.
How long does professional teeth whitening take?
In-office whitening typically takes 60-90 minutes, with immediately visible results.
How long do results last?
Results can last 6-12 months or longer with proper maintenance and good oral hygiene.
Is professional teeth whitening safe?
Yes, when performed by our trained professionals, teeth whitening is both safe and effective.
Emergency Dentistry
Will I need to return for follow-up care?
Depending on your emergency treatment, follow-up care may be necessary to ensure proper healing and prevent future problems.
What emergency dental services do you provide?
We offer comprehensive emergency dental services including extractions, root canals, temporary and permanent crowns, abscess treatment, and repair of broken teeth or dental work.
Can I prevent dental emergencies?
Regular dental check-ups, proper oral hygiene, and wearing protective gear during sports activities can help prevent many dental emergencies.
Will my dental emergency be expensive?
Treatment costs vary depending on the specific emergency and required care. We accept most major insurance plans and offer various payment options to make treatment affordable.
What if I have a dental emergency after hours?
Contact our office immediately. While our regular hours are Monday-Friday 8am-5pm, we provide emergency care instructions and can often accommodate urgent cases.
What should I do if I knock out a tooth?
Keep the tooth moist by placing it in milk or saliva, and contact us immediately. If possible, gently try to place the tooth back in its socket without touching the root.
How quickly can I be seen for a dental emergency?
We make every effort to see emergency patients the same day they call. Our office reserves time in our daily schedule specifically for emergency cases.
What constitutes a dental emergency?
Any situation causing severe pain, bleeding, or trauma to your teeth or gums should be considered a dental emergency. This includes knocked-out teeth, severe toothaches, or broken dental work.
Do you accept emergency patients without insurance?
Yes, we welcome patients with or without insurance and offer various payment options including CareCredit, Cherry and Alphaeon and flexible financing plans.
Sedation Dentistry
How long does sedation last?
The duration varies by type. laughing gas effects dissipate within minutes, while oral sedation may last several hours.
Are there any side effects?
Minor side effects may include drowsiness and mild amnesia. These typically resolve within a few hours. We'll discuss potential effects during your consultation.
How soon can I return to work?
With laughing gas, you can return immediately. For oral sedation, plan to take the rest of the day off to recover.
What's the difference between types of sedation?
Options range from mild relaxation with laughing gas to deeper sedation with oral medication. We'll help determine the best choice for your needs.
Is sedation covered by insurance?
Coverage varies by plan. Our team will help verify your benefits and discuss financing options to make treatment affordable.
How should I prepare for sedation?
We'll provide detailed instructions, including any necessary fasting requirements and medication adjustments. Arrange transportation if needed.
What types of procedures can be done under sedation?
Nearly any dental procedure can be performed under sedation, from routine cleanings to complex restorative work.
Is dental sedation safe?
Yes, dental sedation is very safe when administered by trained professionals. We carefully screen patients, monitor vital signs throughout treatment, and follow strict safety protocols.
Will I feel any pain?
No. Sedation is combined with local anesthesia to ensure you're completely comfortable throughout your procedure.
Can I drive myself home?
Only with laughing gas sedation. Oral sedation requires a responsible adult to drive you home and stay with you until the effects wear off.
Do you offer sedation for emergency procedures?
Yes, we offer multiple sedation options including local anesthesia, oral sedation, and laughing gas to ensure your comfort during emergency procedures.