Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I visit the dentist?
We recommend visiting the dentist every 6 months for a routine exam and cleaning. Regular checkups help us catch problems early and keep your smile healthy and bright. Book Now
Are dental X-rays safe?
Yes! Dental X-rays use very low levels of radiation and are safe for both children and adults. We only take them when necessary to ensure your oral health. X-Rays
Do I really need to floss every day?
Yes—flossing daily helps remove plaque and food between teeth where toothbrushes can’t reach. It’s key to preventing gum disease and cavities.
What should I do in a dental emergency?
Call our office immediately. We offer same-day emergency care for things like toothaches, broken teeth, or lost fillings.
Are there any temporary fixes for a dental emergency?
Yes, but they are only short-term solutions until you can see the dentist. Here are a few examples:
- Toothache: Rinse with warm salt water, floss gently to remove debris, and take over-the-counter pain relief (avoid placing aspirin directly on the gums).
- Chipped or broken tooth: Rinse the mouth and save any pieces. Cover sharp edges with dental wax or sugarless gum to protect your mouth.
- Lost filling or crown: You can use dental cement (available at drugstores) or even sugarless gum as a temporary fix. Bring the crown with you to your appointment if possible.
- Knocked-out tooth: Hold it by the crown (not the root), rinse gently, and try to place it back in the socket or keep it in milk. Get to the dentist within 30 minutes if possible.
- Abscess or swelling: Rinse with salt water and apply a cold compress. Do not delay treatment.
Important: These are temporary measures. Call us right away, we offer emergency appointments to treat the issue quickly and properly. 602-864-7400
Does dental work hurt?
We make your comfort our priority. With modern techniques and gentle care, most procedures are painless. We also offer numbing, and personalized options to help you feel at ease.
What is Cosmetic Dentistry FAQ
What is teeth whitening and is it safe?
Teeth Whitening is a quick, safe way to remove stains and brighten your smile. We offer professional in-office and take-home treatments that are stronger and safer than over-the-counter options.
What’s the difference between professional whitening and store-bought kits?
Professional whitening uses stronger, safer ingredients for faster and longer-lasting results. We also customize treatment to your needs and protect your gums during the process—something drugstore kits can’t guarantee.
What’s the difference between in-office whitening and take-home trays?
In-office whitening is done by our dental team and gives you immediate, dramatic results—often in just one visit. We use professional-strength whitening agents and protect your gums throughout the procedure.
Take-home trays are custom-made to fit your teeth and allow you to whiten at your own pace, usually over 1–2 weeks. They offer more flexibility and are a great option for maintaining or gradually improving your smile and if you are prone to sensitivity. Both are safe and effective—we’ll help you choose the one that fits your goals, budget, and lifestyle.
Am I a candidate for veneers?
Veneers are great for patients with chipped, discolored, or slightly crooked teeth. Veneers are made from thin porcelain or composite resin. Porcelain is more stain-resistant and natural-looking, while composite is more affordable and can often be placed in a single visit.
After a consultation, we can determine if veneers are the right cosmetic solution for you.
Will cosmetic dental procedures look natural?
Yes! Our cosmetic treatments are carefully planned to enhance your features while maintaining a natural look. We use digital smile previews and tooth-colored materials to ensure results blend beautifully with your smile.
Is cosmetic dentistry only for aesthetics?
While cosmetic dentistry improves appearance, it often boosts function, confidence, and oral health too. Fixing chipped, worn, or misaligned teeth can improve your bite and make cleaning easier.
How long do cosmetic results last?
With good care, most cosmetic treatments—like veneers, bonding, and whitening—can last several years to over a decade. Regular checkups and good hygiene help maintain results longer.
Is cosmetic dentistry covered by insurance?
Most cosmetic procedures are not covered, as they’re considered elective. However, some treatments (like crowns or bonding) may be partially covered if they restore function. We’re happy to check your benefits and offer financing options.
Restorative Dentistry FAQ
What is a dental crown and why do I need one?
A dental crown is a custom cap placed over a damaged tooth to restore its shape, strength, and function. It protects the tooth and improves your smile.
What’s the difference between a dental bridge and a partial denture?
A dental bridge is a fixed (non-removable) appliance that replaces one or more missing teeth by anchoring to the teeth on either side of the gap. A partial denture is a removable appliance that replaces multiple missing teeth and clips onto your remaining natural teeth. Bridges are more stable and natural-feeling, while partials are more affordable and easier to adjust or replace.
Why do I need to replace a missing tooth?
Replacing a missing tooth is important to maintain your oral health, appearance, and bite function. When a tooth is lost, nearby teeth can shift, your bite can become unbalanced, and bone loss can occur in the jaw. Replacing the tooth helps prevent future dental problems, improves chewing and speaking, and restores your confident smile.
How long do dental implants last?
Dental implants can last 15 years or more, often a lifetime with proper care. They are a durable, natural-looking option to replace missing teeth.
What’s the difference between a filling and a crown?
A filling is used for small cavities and fits inside your tooth. A crown covers the entire tooth and is used when there is more extensive damage or after a root canal.
Preventive Care FAQ
What causes gum disease?
Gum disease is caused by plaque and bacteria buildup. Regular cleanings, brushing, flossing, and professional exams help prevent it. What is Gum Disease
What is a deep cleaning or scaling and root planing and why do I need one?
A deep cleaning is a special treatment for gum disease. It goes below the gumline to remove plaque and tartar from the tooth roots. This helps reduce inflammation, stop gum disease from progressing, and protect your teeth from future damage. It’s more thorough than a regular cleaning and may be done in sections with numbing for your comfort.
Can dental problems affect my overall health?
Absolutely. Poor oral health is linked to heart disease, diabetes, and other conditions. Keeping your mouth healthy supports your total health.
Is fluoride treatment necessary?
Fluoride strengthens enamel and prevents decay. It’s especially helpful for children but beneficial for adults too—especially those prone to cavities.
What are dental sealants and who should get them?
Dental sealants are thin, protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth. They help prevent cavities by sealing out food and bacteria. Sealants are especially recommended for children and teens, but adults with deep grooves in their molars can benefit too. They’re quick, painless, and a smart way to keep teeth healthy long term.
Dentures and Partials FAQ
What’s the difference between full dentures and partials?
Full dentures replace all the teeth in your upper or lower arch, while partials are used when you still have some healthy natural teeth. Partials clip onto remaining teeth to fill in gaps, while full dentures rest on your gums.
Both are custom-made to fit your mouth, improve your ability to chew and speak, and restore your smile. With proper care, dentures and partials can last for many years. We’ll make sure they’re comfortable, secure, and natural-looking.
How do I care for my dentures or partials?
Caring for your dentures or partials is simple and important for long-term comfort and function. Remove and clean them daily with a soft denture brush and mild cleanser (not toothpaste). Soak them overnight in a denture solution to keep them moist and prevent warping. Always rinse them before putting them back in your mouth.
Don’t forget to brush your gums, tongue, and any remaining teeth to keep your mouth healthy.
How long does it take to get used to dentures or partials?
It usually takes a few weeks to adjust. At first, you may notice some changes in speaking or chewing, but this gets better with time and practice. Minor irritation is normal during the adjustment period, but if anything feels uncomfortable, let us know—we can make adjustments to improve the fit.
We’re here to help make the transition smooth and comfortable!
Payment and Insurance FAQ
Can I use my insurance to pay for dental treatment?
Yes! We accept most major dental insurance plans and will help you understand and maximize your benefits. Coverage depends on your plan, but most policies cover preventive care (like cleanings and exams) at 100%, and partially cover treatments like fillings, crowns, or extractions.
We’re happy to check your benefits, provide cost estimates, and even file claims on your behalf. Just bring your insurance card to your appointment or call us with your plan details—we’ll handle the rest!
What if I don’t have dental insurance?
No insurance? No problem! We offer an in-office discount plan to help you get the care you need at a reduced rate. It includes preventive services and discounts on most treatments—all with no deductibles, no waiting periods, and no yearly maximums.
Ask us how to sign up—it’s affordable and easy to use!
Do you offer payment plans or financing?
Yes! We offer flexible financing options so you can get the treatment you need without stress. Whether you’re planning for cosmetic work, restorative care, or a larger procedure, we can help you spread out payments over time. Approval is quick, and we’ll walk you through your options during your visit. Care Credit
