Common Questions
Communicating with our patients is very important to us. To help with that, we've answered some of our most commonly asked questions. Please feel free to contact us by phone or email with any we might have missed.
What is a cosmetic dentist?
A cosmetic dentist is a dentist who has made a commitment of time, money, and energy in extensive training beyond the norm to create that ultimate smile the patient sees for him or herself. General dentists are trained to fix; cosmetic dentists are trained to create. Cosmetic dentists are striving to achieve the patient’s complete satisfaction. An analogy might be the contractor who builds the house vs. the decorator who makes it a home.
How do I get my teeth whiter?
Teeth whitening is one of our specialties! While there is a confusing array of products to choose from when it comes to getting started, whitening agents used by dentists are stronger and more efficient. Please do not be deceived by the advertisements of the over-the-counter agents. Let us show you what can be done!
There are many different systems available to professionally whiten your teeth. We will work with you to select the one that will most suit your needs. Typically, you will be seen in our office for initial treatment. This appointment lasts about 90 minutes. We call this our “power bleaching” appointment and includes the fabrication of trays for at-home use. The use of the bleaching material at home will “set” the results achieved at the office and can even whiten your teeth more, depending on your desired level of whiteness. Past systems required wearing the trays hours and hours, or even overnight. With current materials, results can be achieved in as little as 4 minutes a day.
In addition, many patients are affected by deeper medication (tetracycline) discoloration of their teeth. Typically, it was thought that these teeth could not be whitened. We have had several successful patient outcomes and are thrilled to discuss it with you.
Can I have straighter teeth without braces?
Cosmetic dentistry offers a multitude of ways to help you achieve the smile of your dreams. Often by the use of reshaping techniques, we can create a more ideal appearance of minor discrepancies. More often, the misalignment of the teeth is such that it requires the placement of porcelain veneers to “realign” them.
Many of our patients are also achieving straighter teeth with clear aligners. We are happy to offer SureSmile® Aligners, a series of transparent, removable, and virtually invisible clear aligners designed to progressively straighten your teeth into their ideal position. There are so many wonderful smiles we have helped patients obtain without traditional braces. Please let us help you achieve your ultimate smile.
How often should I have a dental examination and teeth cleaning?
We recommend our patients visit us every 6 months for a check-up and cleaning. Seeing your dentist twice a year helps maintain good oral health and gives us an opportunity to detect any issues early before tooth decay or periodontal disease progresses.
Do you provide emergency treatment?
Yes, we treat patients who need emergency treatment by appointment.
Do you provide pediatric dentistry?
We care for children 3 years of age and older and will make referrals if needed.
Do you do root canals?
Occasionally, and if it is beyond our equipment scope we will refer out
Do you do tooth extractions or oral surgery?
Occasionally, and if it is beyond our equipment scope we will refer out
What Insurance Companies are you in-network with?
We are in-network with Delta Dental PPO, Cigna PPO and Humana PPO.