FAQ

Faq

Frequently Asked Question

1. How often should I visit the dentist?

Visit every six months for a routine checkup and cleaning, or as recommended by your dentist.

Yes, we welcome new patients! Contact our office to schedule your first appointment.

Bring a photo ID, insurance card, and any medical or dental history records.

We accept most major insurance plans. Contact us to confirm your coverage.

We accept credit cards, cash, and offer financing options for your convenience.

If you have a toothache, rinse your mouth with warm salt water to help reduce inflammation and gently floss to remove any debris. Avoid placing aspirin directly on the tooth or gums, as it can cause irritation. Book an appointment with us as soon as possible so we can determine the cause and provide the appropriate treatment.

Yes, we offer professional teeth whitening treatments designed to brighten your smile safely and effectively. We provide both in-office whitening for quick results and take-home options for your convenience. Contact us to find the best option for you!

Prevent cavities by brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, and maintaining a healthy diet low in sugary and acidic foods. Regular dental checkups and cleanings are also essential to catch and address any early signs of decay.

Prevent gum disease by brushing twice daily, flossing daily, eating a balanced diet, and visiting us regularly for cleanings and checkups. Avoid smoking, as it increases your risk. Early detection is key, so contact us if you notice any symptoms.

Yes, general dentistry can include wisdom tooth evaluation and removal if necessary.

Yes, general dentistry can include wisdom tooth evaluation and removal if necessary.

Yes, general dentistry can include wisdom tooth evaluation and removal if necessary.

Yes, general dentistry can include wisdom tooth evaluation and removal if necessary.

1. What is preventive dental care?

Preventive care includes regular checkups, cleanings, and treatments to maintain oral health and prevent issues like cavities and gum disease.

Brush twice a day for two minutes and floss once daily to remove plaque and prevent decay.

Professional cleanings remove tartar and plaque buildup that brushing alone can’t address, helping to prevent cavities and gum disease.

Maintain good oral hygiene, eat a healthy diet, avoid smoking, and visit your dentist regularly for cleanings and exams.

Fluoride strengthens enamel and helps prevent decay. Your dentist may recommend it based on your oral health needs.

Sealants protect molars from decay and are especially beneficial for children and teens.

Limit sugary and acidic foods, which can erode enamel and cause cavities. Eat a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamins.

Schedule a child’s first dental visit by their first birthday or when their first tooth appears.

Yes, by brushing, flossing, cleaning your tongue, and visiting your dentist to address underlying causes.

Wear a custom-fit mouthguard to prevent injury to your teeth and jaw.

1. What is cosmetic dentistry?

Cosmetic dentistry focuses on improving the appearance of your teeth, gums, and smile.

We offer professional teeth whitening, veneers, and bonding to enhance your smile’s brightness.

Veneers are ideal for covering stains, chips, or gaps and creating a flawless, natural-looking smile.

Results can last up to a year or more with proper care and avoiding stain-causing foods and drinks.

Yes, options like Invisalign or veneers can correct alignment issues without traditional braces.

Dental bonding is a quick, cost-effective way to repair chips, cracks, or gaps using a tooth-colored resin.

Some, like veneers, are long-lasting but may need replacement over time. Others, like whitening, may require maintenance.

Yes, dental implants, bridges, or dentures can restore missing teeth for a natural, aesthetic look.

Schedule a consultation, and we’ll recommend the best options based on your goals and dental health.
Most cosmetic procedures are not covered by insurance, as they are considered elective. However, check with your provider for details.

Most cosmetic treatments aren’t covered by insurance. However, financing options may be available.

1. What should I do in a dental emergency?

If you experience a dental emergency, call our office immediately to schedule an emergency appointment. For after-hours emergencies, we can recommend local emergency dental clinics. If the situation is severe—such as uncontrolled bleeding, trauma, or swelling affecting breathing or swallowing—go to the nearest emergency room. They can provide initial care and direct you to a dentist or oral surgeon if needed.

Yes, general dentistry can include wisdom tooth evaluation and removal if necessary.

Yes, general dentistry can include wisdom tooth evaluation and removal if necessary.

Yes, general dentistry can include wisdom tooth evaluation and removal if necessary.

Yes, general dentistry can include wisdom tooth evaluation and removal if necessary.

Yes, general dentistry can include wisdom tooth evaluation and removal if necessary.

1. How often should I get a dental exam and cleaning?

Every six months, or as recommended by your dentist, to maintain oral health and prevent issues.

The dentist checks your teeth, gums, and mouth for signs of cavities, gum disease, and other issues. X-rays may also be taken.

Cleanings remove plaque and tartar buildup, preventing cavities and gum disease while keeping your teeth healthy and bright.

Cleanings are typically painless. If you feel discomfort, let us know so we can ensure your comfort.

A routine cleaning usually takes 30-60 minutes, depending on your oral health.

Yes, exams help detect issues early before they become serious or painful.

Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that can cause cavities and gum disease if not removed regularly.

Yes, professional cleanings can remove surface stains caused by food, drinks, or tobacco.

Brush twice daily, floss once a day, and maintain a healthy diet to keep your teeth and gums healthy.

Most insurance plans cover routine exams and cleanings. Contact us to confirm your benefits.

1. What does a general dentist do?

A general dentist provides comprehensive care for your oral health, including routine cleanings, exams, fillings, preventive care, and guidance on maintaining healthy teeth and gums. We focus on keeping your smile healthy and addressing any issues early.

It’s recommended to visit your dentist every six months for a routine cleaning and check-up. However, some patients with specific needs may require more frequent visits. We tailor recommendations to your oral health needs.

Yes, dental X-rays are safe. We use modern technology that minimizes radiation exposure while providing valuable insights into your oral health to detect issues early and accurately.

If you experience severe pain, swelling, a knocked-out tooth, or excessive bleeding, contact us immediately to book an emergency appointment. We prioritize emergencies and will guide you on next steps to alleviate discomfort and address the issue promptly.

If you have a life-threatening emergency, such as difficulty breathing, swelling that impacts your ability to swallow, or severe trauma to your face or jaw, go to the nearest emergency room (ER) for immediate care. Your safety is our top priority.

Maintaining good oral hygiene is key. Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, floss daily, and avoid sugary snacks. Regular dental visits ensure we can monitor and support your efforts to keep your teeth healthy.

If you have additional questions, we encourage you to contact our office for more information.

1. What is preventative dentistry?

Preventative dentistry focuses on maintaining oral health and preventing issues like cavities, gum disease, and tooth loss. It includes regular cleanings, exams, fluoride treatments, sealants, and personalized advice for at-home care.

Professional cleanings are typically recommended every six months to remove plaque and tartar buildup that brushing and flossing alone cannot address. More frequent visits may be suggested for those with specific dental needs.

Dental sealants are a protective coating applied to the chewing surfaces of molars to prevent cavities. They are especially beneficial for children but can also help adults with deep grooves in their teeth.

Yes, fluoride strengthens tooth enamel, making it more resistant to decay. It also helps repair early signs of cavities. Fluoride is safe and effective for patients of all ages when used appropriately.

Maintain a consistent routine of brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, and eating a balanced diet. Avoid tobacco use, and schedule regular dental check-ups for professional guidance and care.

If you have additional questions, we encourage you to contact our office for more information.

1. What is cosmetic dentistry?

Cosmetic dentistry focuses on improving the appearance of your teeth, gums, and smile. Treatments range from teeth whitening and veneers to bonding and full smile makeovers, all customized to enhance your confidence.

Yes, cosmetic procedures like veneers, bonding, or orthodontics can address chips, cracks, and misalignment. During a consultation, we’ll discuss the best option for achieving a natural and beautiful result.

Professional teeth whitening is safe and effective when performed by a dentist. Results can last from several months to a year or more, depending on your lifestyle and oral care habits.

Veneers are thin, custom-made shells that cover the front of your teeth to improve their shape, size, and color. They provide a durable and natural-looking solution for a flawless smile.

Costs vary depending on the treatment and your specific needs. During a consultation, we’ll provide a clear breakdown of costs and discuss financing options to make your dream smile accessible.

If you have additional questions, we encourage you to contact our office for more information.

1. What qualifies as a dental emergency?

A dental emergency involves situations requiring immediate attention to alleviate severe pain, address infections, or manage trauma. Common examples include intense toothaches, knocked-out teeth, broken or chipped teeth, and dental abscesses. 

If a tooth is knocked out, handle it by the crown (avoid touching the root), gently rinse it without scrubbing, and, if possible, place it back into the socket. If reinsertion isn’t feasible, keep the tooth moist by placing it in milk or a saline solution. Seek emergency dental care immediately, as timely intervention increases the likelihood of saving the tooth. 

Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help alleviate discomfort. Rinsing your mouth with warm saltwater and applying a cold compress to the outside of your cheek near the affected area may also provide temporary relief. However, these are short-term solutions, and it’s crucial to consult a dentist promptly to address the underlying cause. 

A broken or dislodged crown can be considered a dental emergency, especially if it causes pain, sensitivity, or affects your ability to eat. It’s important to contact your dentist promptly to assess the situation and determine the appropriate course of action. 

A dental abscess is a serious infection characterized by pain, swelling, fever, and a bad taste in the mouth. If you suspect an abscess, seek emergency dental care immediately. In the meantime, rinsing your mouth with a mild saltwater solution can help, but avoid attempting to drain the abscess yourself, as this can lead to further complications. 

If you have additional questions, we encourage you to contact our office for more information.

1. What happens during a dental exam and cleaning?

During a dental exam, we assess your teeth, gums, and mouth for signs of decay, gum disease, or other health issues. This may include taking X-rays to detect problems not visible to the naked eye. The cleaning involves removing plaque and tartar buildup, polishing your teeth, and flossing to ensure optimal oral health. 

Typically, a dental exam and cleaning appointment lasts between 45 minutes to an hour. The exact duration depends on your individual oral health needs and whether additional procedures, such as X-rays, are required. 

Yes, preventive dental care, including exams and cleanings, is safe and recommended during pregnancy. Maintaining oral health is crucial, as pregnancy can increase the risk of gum disease, which has been linked to preterm birth. Inform your dentist about your pregnancy to ensure appropriate care. 

If you experience discomfort during a cleaning, please inform our dental hygienist immediately. We can adjust our techniques, apply a topical anesthetic, or take other measures to ensure your comfort throughout the procedure. 

Regular dental exams and cleanings are vital for maintaining oral health. They allow for early detection of issues like cavities or gum disease, prevent the progression of dental problems, and help keep your teeth and gums healthy. Consistent care can also prevent more extensive and costly treatments in the future.

If you have additional questions, we encourage you to contact our office for more information.