Frequently Asked Questions

In case of life-threatening emergency, please call 911. In case of dental emergency, call our office number at 858-780-8870 and follow our recorded instructions for dental emergency and leave detailed message as to the nature of your condition. We will return the call and arrange to see you in person as soon as possible.

We understand that many patients have apprehensions about visiting the dentist – even for a routine check-up. Whether you are intimidated by the sights and sounds of the dental office or uneasy due to a negative dental experience in the past, rest assured that your comfort is our number one priority. Advances in modern dentistry have grown by leaps and bounds over the past decade, making the office experience much more pleasant for most patients. Please contact us at any time to find out more about ways we can help you ease your anxiety and feel more at ease during your appointment.

Dental x-rays emit very small amounts of radiation while images are taken. Our office employs stringent measures to ensure you and your family are safe during your visit.

Dental sealants are invisible protective barriers placed on healthy teeth to prevent them from developing decay. Sealants are applied to the crevices of the chewing surfaces on the teeth where bacteria often accumulate. Sealants are highly effective when placed on the teeth during childhood shortly after the teeth have erupted from the gums. These protective barriers can last for many years and save hundreds of dollars in future dental treatment costs.

Over the counter teeth whitening products, such as toothpastes and whitening treatments, are effective for removing surface stains but do little for lifting deep-set discoloration. Our office features prescription-strength dental whitening services that are capable of taking many years of stains off of the teeth in just a single dental visit.

Cosmetic dentistry has evolved to make total mouth transformations a reality for many people. Treatments are available to change the size, shape, position and color of your teeth. Whether you want to fill in a few gaps or completely change the look of your teeth, we can help you get the smile you have always dreamed of.

Dental implants are permanent solutions for tooth replacement. Unlike dentures, which extensive care and are known for being ill-fitting, dental implants are permanently fixed in place and require no more maintenance than a natural tooth. Dental implants can be formed to take on the strength and appearance of natural tooth, and most last a lifetime. Not all dental patients are candidates for dental implants. Schedule a consultation to find out whether dental implants could be right for you.

Bleeding, red, or inflamed gums can be a sign of gingivitis or periodontitis – two of the most prevalent diseases in America. Gum disease left untreated can lead to gum loss, bone loss, and ultimately tooth loss. Schedule a dental appointment at the first sign of gum disease, as treatment is easier and far less invasive during the early stages.

Sensitive teeth are usually nothing to worry about and may be corrected using special sensitivity toothpaste. However, it is worth mentioning to your dentist. If you have sudden or extreme tooth sensitivity, it could be a sign of underlying decay beneath the surface of your teeth.

Fillings have been around for many years and are made of many materials. Traditional silver fillings are known as amalgams and are known for their durability and affordability. However, many dental patients are opting for composite fillings, which are tooth-colored and more discreet than silver fillings. Composites are also durable and are mercury-free.

Dental treatment should be affordable and accessible for everyone. Though we welcome your dental insurance at our office, we never want our patients to forego necessary treatment because of financial reasons. Contact our financial coordinator to discuss the costs of your treatment and the ways we make it easier to pay the balance on your account.