FAQs
Answers to Your Questions
Clinical
What can you do to improve the appearance of my smile?
Well, we'd like to start by evaluating your oral health, existing smile, and discussing your idea of a spectacular smile. We may suggest porcelain veneers, teeth whitening, dental implants, or replacing metal dental work with esthetic restorations. However, your smile may benefit from some artistic bonding and reshaping or Zoom! Whitening. Maybe Invisalign clear braces will give you the straight smile you've always wanted. Call to schedule a cosmetic consultation, and together, we'll determine the best road to your ideal smile.
What is the difference between veneers and Lumineers?
Lumineers are actually a brand of veneers that requires minimal or no tooth preparation prior to placement. Some patients prefer Lumineers because of the quick application and reduced risk for sensitivity. However, others prefer traditional veneers because of their completely customized design.
I have not been to the dentist in years, and I’m ashamed to let a professional see the condition of my mouth. Is your staff judgmental?
First of all, congratulations on your wise decision to prioritize dental healthcare. Your mouth is a big part of your overall health, quality of life, and self-esteem. We will not judge you, but help you by addressing your oral problems, explaining treatment options, then scheduling a plan of action that suits your schedule and your budget.
What are my options to replace missing teeth?
We offer bridgework, partials, full dentures, and implant restorations to replace missing teeth. Learn more about these services on our services page, then call for a consultation. With X-rays, intraoral photos, and a thorough assessment of your dentition, the dentist can help you decide which replacement option will be best for you.
My gums bleed after I brush. Is this something to be concerned about?
Bleeding is usually a sign of a problem. When gums bleed, the cause usually stems from the patient brushing too hard or from early-stage gum disease, called gingivitis. We can consult with you on the proper toothbrush and pressure for safe, effective daily oral care. If your gums show signs of gum disease, we may recommend a deep hygiene treatment to stop the disease and return your gums to good health. Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss for American adults, and it has been linked to many overall health conditions, including stroke, heart attack, and respiratory problems. Untreated, gum disease can escalate to create significant damage to your health, so call for an assessment now. We will help you keep your teeth and gums healthy for life!
How do I know when it is time to come in for a checkup?
We recommend that patients with good oral health schedule a checkup and hygiene visit twice each year. If you need more frequent visits, we'll let you know. Checkups are important because, even if you don't notice any pain or problems with your teeth, we may find signs of potential problems. For instance, demineralization is a precursor to decay, oral cancer often goes undetected until the later stages, and gum disease can be very stealthy. At your hygiene appointment, we'll clean plaque, tartar, and hardened food particles from your teeth. We'll also make sure your gums are healthy and strong.
Crowns, veneers, onlays, inlays, and partials…Where can I learn more about these procedures?
Our services page has many articles with great, easy-to-understand information. If you have questions about these or other dental procedures, don't hesitate to call us. We would be happy to explain any aspect of your dental care or our service offerings.
Administrative
Will you see my kids and my grandparents?
Yes! We love families and see many of them. Our services are diverse, so we offer dentures for our older patients, as well as sealants for our youngest patients. Call to schedule comprehensive initial exams for everyone in your family – because their smiles are invaluable family assets!
Does my insurance cover that?
Dental insurance is diverse. Some policies cover only a small percentage of fees, while others cover 50 percent or greater. The more you or your employer pays for premiums, the better the coverage, in most cases. For the most part, dental insurance covers some restorative and preventive procedures. Cosmetic treatment is not usually covered. We offer financing to make cosmetic dentistry affordable for all of our patients. If you have questions, give us a call. We'll be happy to explain your insurance benefits.
What payment methods do you accept, and what are my financing options?
You may pay for your dental work by cash, credit card, check, or Care Pay (in-house financing). We try to make dental care financially convenient for our patients, so if you have any questions, don't hesitate to ask!
Dental Emergency
What if I have an emergency when the office is closed?
One of the doctors is on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. If you perceive that you are experiencing a real dental emergency (severe pain, bleeding, swelling, or broken off teeth) do not hesitate to call the office. Our answering machine will refer you to our 24-hour emergency cell phone.
My child has had an accident and his/her tooth has been entirely knocked out. What do I do?
Place the tooth in a glass of milk and call or come in to our office as quickly as possible. Don't forget to bring the tooth! Use a warm, wet washcloth to cover the gums where the tooth fell from.
I knocked my tooth out. What should I do?
If you are not otherwise hurt, put the tooth in a small glass of milk, then call our office and we will try to see you immediately. If you are injured beyond the lost tooth, please go to the emergency room.
First, call us. If the office is closed, simply use a dab of toothpaste to reattach the temporary, then visit us for a replacement when the office opens. You can also find dental adhesive in your local drug store, if you prefer not to use toothpaste.
Suite 102
Los Alamitos, CA 90720
562-598-4111