Frequently Asked Questions
Family Dentistry
It’s recommended that children have their first dental visit by their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth coming in. Early visits help identify any potential issues and get your child comfortable with dental care.
Yes, we offer specialized dental care for seniors, including services like dentures, restorative treatments, and treatments for dry mouth or gum disease, which are common concerns as we age.
It’s generally recommended to schedule a dental check-up every six months for preventive care. However, your dentist may suggest more frequent visits depending on your oral health.
Yes, we offer family appointments to make it convenient for you and your loved ones to receive care at the same time.
We can work with any PPO plan, as a courtesy we verify insurance before your appointment.
Teeth Cleaning & Prevention
Professional cleanings should be done at least twice a year to maintain healthy teeth and gums. If you have gum disease or other conditions, your dentist may recommend more frequent cleanings.
Brushing twice a day, flossing daily, eating a balanced diet, and visiting your dentist regularly are the best ways to prevent tooth decay and gum disease.
Yes, professional teeth cleaning can remove plaque and bacteria that cause bad breath, leaving your mouth feeling fresh.
Absolutely. Regular cleanings help remove plaque buildup, which is a major cause of cavities. Preventive care is key to maintaining healthy teeth.
To maintain good oral hygiene, brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, floss daily, use mouthwash, and avoid sugary snacks.
Cosmetic Dentistry
We offer a range of cosmetic procedures including teeth whitening, veneers and bonding.
Yes, when done professionally, teeth whitening is safe and effective. Our team ensures that the procedure is customized to your needs for the best results.
The longevity of cosmetic dentistry results depends on the procedure and your oral care routine. Teeth whitening can last several months, while veneers and implants can last many years with proper care.
Costs vary based on the type of procedure. We offer consultations to discuss your goals and provide you with a detailed treatment plan and cost estimate.
Most dental insurance plans do not cover cosmetic procedures.
Tooth Replacement
You have several options, including dental implants, bridges, and dentures. We can help you choose the best solution for your lifestyle and needs.
The dental implant process can take several months from start to finish, depending on your healing and treatment plan.
Yes, dental implants function like natural teeth, allowing you to eat normally. Dentures may take some adjustment, but we ensure a comfortable fit for optimal function.
Dentures are a great option for many people missing teeth. We can assess your specific situation and help you determine if dentures are right for you.
In some cases, a tooth can be replaced immediately after extraction. Your dentist will assess your situation and determine the best timeline.
Extractions & Preservation
The extraction process is generally quick and done under local anesthesia to minimize discomfort. Aftercare instructions will be provided to ensure smooth healing.
Recovery usually takes a few days to a week. Following aftercare instructions, such as resting and avoiding certain foods, will help speed up recovery.
Risks are minimal but can include infection, dry socket, or prolonged bleeding. Your dentist will take steps to minimize these risks and ensure a smooth recovery.
Depending on the condition of the tooth, alternatives may include root canal therapy, crowns, or other restorative options to save the tooth.
Stick to soft foods like yogurt, soup, and mashed potatoes for the first few days. Avoid hot, spicy, or crunchy foods until your mouth has healed.
Oral Appliances
We offer nightguards and clear retainers. We can offer a referral for sleep apnea.
Oral appliances for sleep apnea help by repositioning the jaw to keep your airway open while you sleep, reducing snoring and other symptoms.
Oral appliances generally last several years with proper care, but it’s important to have them checked during regular dental visits for wear and fit.
If you grind or clench your teeth at night (bruxism), a nightguard can protect your teeth and relieve jaw discomfort. Your dentist can determine if one is necessary.
Orthodontics
We offer traditional braces, clear aligners like Invisalign, and other orthodontic options to straighten your teeth and improve your bite.
Children should have an initial orthodontic evaluation by age 7. Early assessment allows us to identify potential issues and recommend appropriate treatment.
Orthodontic treatment typically takes 1-3 years, depending on the complexity of the case and the treatment method used.
Yes, orthodontic treatment is available for adults. Clear aligners and modern braces make it more convenient for adults to improve their smile.
Yes, clear aligners can be just as effective as traditional braces for mild to moderate orthodontic issues. Your dentist can help determine the best option for you.
Sedation Dentistry
Sedation dentistry is ideal for patients with dental anxiety, difficulty sitting still, or those undergoing extensive treatments. Your dentist can determine if it’s right for you.
After sedation dentistry, you may feel groggy for a few hours, so it’s important to rest. We require that you have someone to drive you home.
We offer nitrous oxide (laughing gas), oral sedation, and IV sedation, depending on the procedure and your comfort level.
Some insurance plans may cover sedation for certain procedures, especially if it is deemed medically necessary. Our team can help you navigate your coverage.
