Below are some of the most frequently asked questions patients have about dentistry and oral health issues. If you have any other questions, or would like to schedule an appointment, we would love to hear from you.
Click on a question below to see the answer.
Insurance
Do you accept dental insurance?
We work with many insurance companies and file claims on behalf of our patients. We are in-network with Aetna, Ameritas, Careington, Cigna (Core and Radius Networks), Delta Dental (PPO and Premier), Guardian, MetLife, United Concordia, and Sunlife.
Our treatment coordinator will gather your information and estimate your insurance coverage. In an attempt to maximize your benefits, we provide the insurance company with all necessary paperwork, charts, and X-rays. Please remember that dental insurance is a contract between you and your provider, and any remaining balance will be billed to your account.
Can I make payments on my dental treatment?
We have partnered with CareCredit, a trusted name in third-party financing, so patients can make affordable monthly payments on their treatments. CareCredit offers revolving credit and no interest for up to 12 months for patients who qualify.
What payment methods do you accept?
For your convenience, we accept cash, checks, and all major credit cards (American Express, Discover, MasterCard, and Visa).
Why do my teeth have stains and discolorations?
Most stains are caused by age, tobacco, coffee, or tea. Other types of stains can be caused by antibiotics, such as tetracycline; or too much fluoride.
Dental Cleaning
Are cleanings covered by insurance?
For most patients, yes, basic preventive care (including checkups and cleanings) is covered 100% by insurance. In-depth periodontal (“deep”) cleaning may be covered in part between 50%-80%, depending on your coverage. Our team will confirm your benefits and help you understand your insurance coverage to make the most of the coverage you’re owed.
How often should I get my teeth cleaned?
You can expect to book a preventive visit for a cleaning or checkup every six months. This helps our team diagnose problems as they arise and give prompt treatment recommendations to keep your oral health on the right track.
How often should I see the dentist?
Regular preventive visits are the best way to keep your gums healthy and your teeth cavity-free. You can expect to see the dentist every six months so that our dentists can monitor any changes in your oral health and provide prompt treatment recommendations as needed.
Do dental cleanings hurt?
No, cleaning should be a comfortable experience. Dental cleanings are handled by trained dental hygienists who gently yet effectively clean, floss, and polish your teeth. This process is generally quite painless. Patients who have gingivitis may experience some tenderness or bleeding in their gums during their procedure. However, our team will do everything we can to prevent any discomfort you may experience.
Emergency Dentistry
Do I need to see an emergency dentist?
It’s important to see a dentist as soon as possible when you experience a dental injury, infection, or other emergency condition. Delaying care will prolong your symptoms, and may even cause your condition to worsen. Be sure to seek assistance from a trained dental professional as soon as possible.
Is an emergency dental exam expensive?
The total cost of your treatment will depend on your case and unique needs. That said, we do everything we can to offer affordable dental care at transparent prices, including all emergency services. We also offer flexible financing options to help you cover all out-of-pocket expenses.
Can you see me today?
We do everything we can to see you! That’s why we offer same-day or next-day appointments to get you in as quickly as possible. Walk-ins are accepted as scheduling permits. We can’t guarantee appointment times, so be sure to call us in case of an accident or emergency.
Should I go to the ER for a dental emergency?
Dental emergencies can sometimes be frightening and we understand your first instinct may be to go to the hospital. But unless you’re experiencing severe symptoms of uncontrolled bleeding or swelling, you should contact your local dentist right away.
Dental Implants
What if I don’t get an implant?
If you’ve lost one or more teeth, it’s important to replace them as soon as you can. Missing teeth can impact your oral health as well as your overall physical well-being, causing problems biting, chewing, and eating properly. You also have a greater chance of developing gum disease, TMJ, crooked teeth, and other issues if you go without replacing your missing teeth.
How much do dental implants cost?
The full cost of your implant procedure will depend on your overall treatment needs, such as the extent of restoration required to complete your smile. Our team will provide you with a complete breakdown of all costs and payment options during your consultation.
Do you offer sedation?
We offer laughing gas sedation at no extra charge. Laughing gas is given to patients undergoing a variety of treatments, including tooth extractions and implant procedures.
Do implants hurt?
You will require a minor surgical procedure to place the implants in your jaw. Following your procedure, it’s normal to experience some pain and swelling while your mouth heals. Our team will provide you with detailed post-operative instructions and prescribed pain relievers (as needed) to help you manage any discomfort you may experience.
Are implants covered by insurance?
Many dental plans may cover a portion of your procedure. We will verify all benefits prior to treatment and help you make the most of your insurance coverage.
How much do dental implants cost?
The full cost of your implant procedure will depend on your overall treatment needs, such as the extent of restoration required to complete your smile. Our team will provide you with a complete breakdown of all costs and payment options during your consultation.
What are implants made out of?
Dental implants are made from titanium. We use this metal because it’s biocompatible, which means it fuses with the surrounding jawbone tissue. This can prevent or reverse the bone loss that happens when you lose one or more teeth.
Invisalign
Can teens get Invisalign?
Yes, many teens can enjoy a healthier, more attractive smile with Invisalign Teen! Invisalign Teen helps our young patients straighten their teeth and improve their smiles without the need for the metal mouth that comes with traditional braces. This treatment option uses a blue indicator dot on the aligner, so you and their dentist know if your child is wearing their aligners properly.
Can I brush or eat with Invisalign?
Your invisible aligners are removable and can be taken out during meals and when brushing and flossing. This allows you to maintain good oral hygiene without having metal brackets or wires to impede your brushing. Just be sure to brush your teeth after meals to keep your aligners clean. Your aligners can also be taken out if you want to participate in sports, allowing you to maintain an active lifestyle.
Does Invisalign hurt?
Most patients experience some discomfort or soreness when they begin wearing their new aligners. This usually passes in a few days, once the mouth adjusts to the new aligners. If you experience any pain or irritation as a result of using Invisalign, be sure to call our office.
How long does Invisalign take?
Invisalign typically works faster than braces and other clear aligners. Many patients begin to see their desired results in as little as six months. Most patients complete treatment in 12-24 months, depending on their treatment needs. Your dentist will provide you with a roadmap for your treatment and let you know what to expect before you receive your first aligners.
Is Invisalign covered by insurance?
In most cases, yes. Many major dental insurance plans cover Invisalign treatment the same way they cover braces. Your insurance may cover up to 50% of your Invisalign treatment, depending on your coverage. Our team will help you understand your insurance coverage and maximize your benefits whenever possible.
Is Invisalign expensive?
For most patients, Invisalign is a very affordable orthodontic treatment option. While every case is unique to your smile, the cost of your Invisalign treatment is comparable to that of traditional metal or clear braces. No matter your treatment needs and goals, our team will provide a complete breakdown of all out-of-pocket costs during your consultation and discuss insurance, financing, and payment options.
How much does Invisalign cost?
Invisalign is a flexible treatment that can be tailored to your needs. We’ll have to perform a full assessment of your teeth during your consultation so we can provide you with a breakdown of all treatment costs. That said, Invisalign is comparable to the cost of braces, making it affordable for most patients.
Veneers
Are veneers permanent?
Veneers are a permanent cosmetic procedure. They need a thin layer of enamel to be removed from your teeth prior to placement and are bonded to the remaining tooth structure. For this reason, only a trained dental professional can make repairs or adjustments to your veneers.
How long do veneers last?
The lifespan of your veneer depends on the type you choose, and your veneers will eventually need to be repaired or replaced just like any other dental work. A set of ceramic veneers will last 20 years or more, which is why we recommend it to our patients.
Do veneers hurt?
Generally, no. Patients who receive 2-4 veneers typically experience no discomfort. However, patients who receive eight or more veneers may experience some sensitivity or tenderness in the gums. Your dentist will take every precaution during your veneer preparation and administer local anesthetic or sedation as needed to ensure your comfort.
How long does it take to get veneers?
On average, you can expect the process of getting your veneers to take 3-4 weeks. You’ll visit our office 2-3 times during this time, from your initial consultation to the final fitting and application. While you wait for your final veneers to come back from the dental lab.
What kind of veneers can I get?
While there are many options available to today’s patient, our practice offers veneers made from high-quality porcelain. We choose porcelain for its strength, durability, and lifelike appearance, providing years of lasting smiles.
Dental Education
How can I get whiter teeth?
We take an active role in helping teach patients on how to maintain good dental health and how to achieve a beautiful, healthy, long-lasting smile.
Read more
Do over-the-counter teeth whitening treatments work?
With teeth whitening, there are two different active ingredients that you could be using - carbamide peroxide and hydrogen peroxide. If you’re using an at-home treatment, it should be listed on the packaging. Otherwise, ask your dentist. Due to the gentler strength of carbamide peroxide, it is ideal for at-home whitening kits where a professional is not available, and dentists agree that the key to long-term teeth whitening is regular at-home treatment. Take-home kits are significantly cheaper than in-office teeth whitening and significantly more effective than store-bought whitening strips or brush-on whiteners.
Is teeth whitening safe?
Professional teeth whitening has been proven as safe and effective, grounded in simple science. The whitening chemicals, oxidizing agents, react with the foreign substances to break down and remove them more thoroughly than simply brushing your teeth can. Once the stains are removed, saliva will fill some cracks and remineralize, but regular teeth whitening is necessary to maintain white teeth.
Does teeth whitening hurt?
During an office visit, your dental professional will apply the whitening gel and, depending on the system being used, will shine a light source directly onto the teeth. The entire office visit generally takes about 90 minutes with immediate results. The dentist generally cleans your teeth and places some sort of protective barrier on your gums before the whitening begins. The gel sits on your teeth for several minutes before the dentist washes it off. It is usually reapplied several times before the procedure is over. Many people report increased sensitivity in their teeth during this process, but new gels contain sodium fluoride, which reduces this side effect significantly.
Why are my teeth stained?
Your teeth are made of two layers - enamel and dentin. Enamel is the white protective layer of the tooth. Damage to the enamel can expose your dentin. Dentin is the core of the tooth. It also has a darker, yellow color. In addition to that, cracks in the enamel can fill with staining substances, like dark foods. If left for a long time untreated, stains can be difficult to remove.