Answers to the questions we hear most often, from checkups and Invisalign to whitening and dental emergencies.
For most people, visiting the dentist every six months is ideal. Regular exams help us catch small issues before they escalate.
Your checkup includes a gentle cleaning to remove plaque and tartar, a detailed oral exam, and X-rays if needed to monitor hidden issues. We also perform an oral cancer screening.
Not at all. Our team uses gentle, patient-focused techniques to keep you comfortable from start to finish.
Not necessarily. X-rays are typically taken once a year or as needed to check for cavities, bone issues, or other hidden concerns.
Checkups remove stubborn buildup and identify early decay before it causes pain or damage.
Yes. We love working with kids ages 7 and up. Our friendly team and fun amenities, including Netflix and headphones, make it a positive experience for little ones.
Please tell us. We are here to help. With cozy blankets, calming music, and Netflix, we do everything possible to create a relaxing environment tailored to your comfort.
Yes. We work with many major insurance providers. One of our friendly coordinators can check your benefits and give you an estimate before treatment begins.
Most checkups take 45 minutes to an hour, depending on your needs.
Yes. Exams can reveal signs of gum disease, oral cancer, and even systemic conditions like diabetes or sleep apnea.
Invisalign uses a series of clear, custom-made aligners to gently move your teeth into their ideal position. Each set of aligners is worn for about two weeks before switching to the next.
Most Invisalign treatments are completed in 12 to 18 months, though some cases finish sooner.
Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign is much more comfortable. Mild, temporary pressure is normal when switching aligners.
For the best results, wear your aligners 20 to 22 hours a day. Only take them out to eat, drink, brush, and floss.
Yes. Just remove your aligners during meals, and brush before putting them back in to keep them clean and clear.
Cost varies based on your treatment. We offer flexible financing options to fit your budget.
You will visit us every 6 to 8 weeks so we can monitor your progress and provide new sets of aligners.
Yes. Invisalign is a great option for responsible teens who want a nearly invisible way to straighten their smile.
Give us a call right away. We will guide you on what to do next and keep your treatment on track.
Many insurance plans cover part of the cost.
With good care, veneers can last 10 to 15 years or even longer.
Not at all. The process is minimally invasive, and we use modern techniques to ensure your comfort.
Just brush and floss as usual, and avoid biting into hard objects like ice to prevent chipping.
Veneers can improve mild crookedness. Invisalign may be a better fit for more complex alignment issues.
Yes. Porcelain and eMax veneers resist stains, so your smile stays bright.
Cost depends on quantity and material. We offer flexible financing to make veneers affordable.
Veneers are a long-lasting solution. They may need replacement after 10 to 15 years.
Yes. Veneers can be placed on a single tooth or multiple teeth, depending on your cosmetic goals.
Yes. Each veneer is custom-made to match the color, shape, and size of your surrounding teeth for a seamless look.
Since veneers are considered cosmetic, insurance typically does not cover them.
Dental implants are titanium posts surgically placed into your jawbone. They act as sturdy foundations for crowns, bridges, or dentures, giving you a secure and natural-looking solution for missing teeth.
The full process usually takes 3 to 6 months, depending on healing time and the complexity of your case.
For many patients, yes. Implants provide a permanent, stable solution that looks and feels more natural than traditional dentures.
We offer advanced options like bone grafting or All-on-4 implants, which can work even if you have low bone density.
Not at all. The implant placement is done under local anesthesia, and most patients report little to no discomfort afterward.
Caring for implants is just like caring for natural teeth. Brush, floss, and visit us regularly.
Coverage varies. Many insurance providers cover part of the cost.
Yes. Implants can replace a single tooth, several teeth, or even support a full arch with implant-supported dentures.
With proper care, dental implants can last for decades, often a lifetime.
Cost depends on implant quantity and restoration type. Flexible financing is available.
Absolutely. Whitening can be part of a larger smile makeover. Ask about combining it with veneers or Invisalign for your perfect smile.
Results typically last between 6 months and 2 years, depending on your oral hygiene and dietary habits.
Yes. Professional whitening treatments are safe and carefully supervised by our dental team to protect your enamel and gums.
Our whitening systems are designed to minimize sensitivity. Any mild sensitivity is temporary and usually resolves quickly.
Cost varies. We offer flexible payment plans to make whitening affordable.
Yes. Our professional-grade whitening systems, like KoR Whitening, can tackle even deep, stubborn stains caused by medications or lifestyle habits.
Professional treatments deliver faster, more noticeable results with less risk of sensitivity than consumer products.
No, whitening only works on natural teeth.
Yes. Whitening is generally safe for teens, though we always assess their dental health first to ensure the best results.
Dr. Lopez will recommend the best whitening option based on your goals and the type of stains you want to remove.
A dental emergency includes severe tooth pain, swelling, bleeding, broken or knocked-out teeth, or signs of infection.
Yes, but time is critical. Gently rinse the tooth, avoid touching the root, and try to place it back in the socket. If that is not possible, keep it in milk and contact us immediately.
If the pain is severe, persistent, or accompanied by swelling, fever, or difficulty chewing, it is time to seek urgent care.
Rinse your mouth with warm water, save any fragments, and apply a cold compress to reduce swelling. Avoid chewing on the affected side, and call us right away for same-day care.
Many insurance plans cover emergency visits and treatments.
For life-threatening issues involving breathing or swallowing, head to the ER. For most dental emergencies, seeing a dentist is the best option.
Over-the-counter pain relievers and cold compresses can help reduce pain and swelling until your appointment.
Yes. We welcome new patients, especially during emergencies.
Keep the area clean, avoid chewing on that side, and call us as soon as possible. We will schedule a same-day appointment to repair or replace the restoration.
Preventive care is key. Regular checkups, using a mouthguard during sports, and avoiding hard objects like ice or pens can reduce your risk of emergencies.
