FAQ

You can request an appointment from the comfort of your home. All it takes is a few clicks on your computer or mobile device. Simply head over to the "Contact Us" section on our website. There, you will find our user-friendly online appointment request form.

You can enter your name and contact details with just a few keystrokes. Have specific dental concerns or treatment needs? No worries; there is a space for you to share any additional information.

Once you have filled out the form, simply hit the "Submit" button, and you are done! Our efficient staff will receive your request promptly and reach out to confirm all the essential details.

Our dedicated receptionist is just a phone call away for those who prefer a more personal touch. Dial our office at 661-775-7717, and you will be greeted by a warm and welcoming voice.

Feel free to share your scheduling preferences and any questions or concerns you may have. Our receptionist will guide you through the process, ensuring you find an appointment slot that aligns perfectly with your schedule.

If you are someone who values face-to-face interactions, we'd love to meet you in person. Stop by our dental office during our regular business hours. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff will be there to assist you with scheduling an appointment, addressing any immediate queries, and making you feel at home in our practice.

The duration of your dental appointment can vary depending on several factors, including the purpose of the visit, the complexity of your dental needs, and the specific procedures or examinations planned. Here is a general guideline for how long different types of dental appointments may last:

• Initial dental check-up (new patient) — A comprehensive new patient examination may take around 60 to 90 minutes. This includes a thorough review of your medical and dental history, X-rays (if needed), a complete oral examination, an assessment of your gum health, and a discussion with the dentist about your oral health goals and any concerns you may have.
• Routine dental check-up (existing patient) — Regular check-up appointments for existing patients are typically shorter, lasting around 30 to 60 minutes. During these appointments, the dentist will review your dental history, conduct an oral examination, and discuss any updates or concerns.
• Dental cleaning (hygiene appointment) — A dental cleaning, also known as a hygiene appointment, can vary in duration. A standard cleaning usually takes about 30 to 45 minutes, but it may take longer if you have significant plaque or tartar buildup. If you require deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) due to gum disease, it may require multiple visits, each lasting about an hour.
• Specific dental procedures — If your first appointment includes specific dental procedures, such as fillings, extractions, or root canals, the duration can vary widely depending on the complexity of the treatment. Simple procedures may take 30 minutes to an hour, while more complex treatments may require multiple appointments and longer timeframes.
• Consultation for specialized services — If you are visiting the dentist for a consultation related to specialized services like orthodontics, oral surgery, or dental implants, the initial consultation can range from 30 minutes to an hour or more, depending on the complexity of your case and the discussions involved.

When scheduling your appointment, it is essential to communicate with your dental office to understand the expected duration and plan your day accordingly. Additionally, arriving a bit early for your appointment allows you to complete any necessary paperwork and ensure you are ready to begin your visit on time.

Remember that this is a general guideline, and the duration of your first dental appointment may vary based on your unique circumstances. Dentists aim to provide comprehensive care and ensure that all your questions and concerns are addressed during your visit so they will allocate the necessary time to meet your needs.

If it's been a while since your last dental visit, do not worry; you are taking a positive step toward prioritizing your oral health. Here is what you need to do to get back on track with your dental care:

• Schedule an appointment — The first and most crucial step is to schedule an appointment with us. You can do this by following the appointment request methods described in our previous response, such as calling our office, using our website's online form, or visiting us in person. Let our team know that it's been a while since your last visit so that they can allocate the necessary time for your check-up.
• Gather your dental history — If you have any records of past dental treatments, X-rays, or other relevant information, it is a good idea to bring these to your appointment. This can help your dentist assess your oral health more comprehensively.
• Prepare a list of concerns — Take a moment to jot down any specific concerns or questions you have about your oral health. Whether it is tooth sensitivity, gum issues, or cosmetic improvements, sharing your concerns with your dentist will enable them to address your needs effectively.
• Review your oral hygiene habits — Reflect on your current oral hygiene practices. Are you brushing and flossing regularly? Are you using any special dental products? Sharing this information with your dentist can help them tailor their advice to your needs.
• Relax and communicate — During your dental appointment, it is essential to relax and communicate openly with your dentist and dental hygienist. They are there to help, and your comfort and well-being are their priorities.
• Follow-up care — Depending on the findings of your dental check-up, your dentist may recommend follow-up treatments or cleanings. Follow their advice and schedule any necessary appointments to address any issues.

We are here to support your oral health and well-being, and it is never too late to start taking care of your teeth and gums. Regular dental visits can help prevent problems, detect issues early, and provide you with personalized guidance for maintaining a healthy smile. Do not hesitate to contact us to schedule your appointment; we are here to help you on your journey to excellent oral health.

Dental sealants are a preventive dental treatment that involves applying a thin, protective coating to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth, particularly the molars and premolars. These surfaces have deep pits and grooves where food particles and bacteria can easily accumulate, making them susceptible to tooth decay. Dental sealants act as a barrier, sealing off these vulnerable areas to help prevent cavities and maintain your child's oral health.

Here is why your kids may need dental sealants:

• Cavity prevention — The primary purpose of dental sealants is to prevent cavities. The chewing surfaces of the back teeth have intricate grooves and fissures that can be challenging to clean thoroughly with regular brushing and flossing. Sealants create a smooth, protective surface that prevents food and bacteria from getting trapped in these areas.
• Protection during formative years — Children are particularly susceptible to cavities as their teeth develop and mature. Applying sealants at an early age, typically when the first molars and premolars erupt (around ages 6 and 12), can help protect these teeth during their formative years when they are most vulnerable to decay.
• Cost-effective — Dental sealants are a cost-effective preventive measure when compared to the potential costs of treating cavities and dental restorations. By investing in sealants, you can save money on future dental treatments and protect your child's oral health.
• Long-lasting — Sealants can last for several years with proper care and maintenance. They provide ongoing protection against cavities during the critical period when your child is learning and developing good oral hygiene habits.
• Improved oral health — By reducing the risk of cavities on the chewing surfaces of the molars and premolars, dental sealants contribute to improved overall oral health. Healthy teeth are essential for proper nutrition, speech development, and a child's self-confidence.

Note that dental sealants are not a substitute for regular oral hygiene practices. Your child should continue to brush, floss, and have regular dental check-ups. Additionally, sealants are most effective when applied to clean, healthy teeth, so maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial.

A root canal, also known as endodontic therapy, is a dental procedure designed to treat and save a severely damaged or infected tooth. It involves the removal of the soft tissue inside the tooth, known as the pulp, which contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue.

This procedure is typically performed by an endodontist, a dentist specializing in the treatment of dental pulp and the tissues surrounding the tooth roots. The root canal procedure is highly effective at saving a tooth that might otherwise need to be extracted due to infection or damage. It eliminates pain and discomfort caused by the infection and allows the patient to retain their natural tooth, which is usually the best option for oral health and function.

You can use several methods to whiten your teeth, ranging from at-home options to professional treatments provided by a dentist. Keep in mind that the effectiveness of teeth whitening can vary depending on the method you choose and the condition of your teeth.

Here are some popular methods for whitening your teeth:

• Over-the-counter (OTC) whitening products — Many toothpaste brands offer whitening formulas to help remove surface stains. They contain mild abrasives and sometimes hydrogen peroxide to whiten teeth gradually. You can also opt for whitening strips. Whitening strips are thin, flexible strips coated with a peroxide-based gel. You apply them directly to your teeth and leave them on for a specified period, typically once or twice a day for a week or more. Moreover, some OTC kits include whitening gels that you apply to custom-fit trays and wear over your teeth. These trays are worn for a specified time each day.
• Professional at-home whitening kits — Dentists can provide custom-fit trays and professional-grade whitening gel for use at home. These kits are more potent than OTC products and are supervised by a dental professional.
• In-office professional teeth whitening — Dentists offer in-office teeth whitening treatments that provide faster and more dramatic results than at-home methods. These treatments typically involve the application of a high-concentration peroxide gel to your teeth, which is activated by a special light or laser.
• Professional dental cleaning — Regular dental cleanings by a dentist or dental hygienist can remove surface stains and tartar buildup, improving the overall appearance of your teeth.

It is essential to consult with a dentist before starting any teeth whitening regimen, especially if you have dental restorations (e.g., crowns, veneers) or underlying dental issues. They can assess the condition of your teeth and recommend the most suitable whitening method for your specific needs.

Keep in mind that teeth whitening results are not permanent, and you may need touch-up treatments over time to maintain your desired level of whiteness. Additionally, individual results can vary, and some people may experience temporary tooth sensitivity during or after teeth whitening treatments. Your dentist can provide guidance on managing any potential side effects and achieving the best results for your smile.

If a tooth gets knocked out in an accident, taking immediate action is essential to increase the chances of saving the tooth. Here are the steps to follow:

• Handle the tooth carefully — Pick up the tooth by the crown (the part visible in your mouth) and avoid touching the roots. Handling the tooth properly helps preserve the delicate ligaments and cells on the root surface.
• Rinse gently — If the tooth is dirty, rinse it briefly with clean, lukewarm water. Do not scrub or use soap or any chemicals to clean the tooth.
• Try to reinsert the tooth (if possible) — If the injured person is conscious and cooperative, try to reinsert the tooth into its socket gently. Ensure it is facing the correct way, and do not force it. It is crucial to act quickly, as the chances of successful replantation decrease with time.
• Keep the tooth moist — If you cannot reinsert the tooth into the socket, the next best option is to keep it moist. You can place the tooth in a clean container with water or a glass of milk. The milk helps preserve the tooth's cells and is a suitable option if water is unavailable. Do not store the tooth in tap water, as it can damage the cells.
• Get to a dentist immediately — Time is critical in saving a knocked-out tooth. It is essential to see a dentist as soon as possible, ideally within 30 minutes to an hour of the accident. The dentist may be able to reinsert and stabilize the tooth properly.
• Protect the tooth during transport — During transportation to the dentist, ensure the tooth remains moist. Be careful not to let the tooth dry out or become too wet.
• Pain management — If there is any pain or discomfort, you can provide over-the-counter pain relievers following the manufacturer's instructions. Avoid placing aspirin directly on the affected area, as it may cause additional irritation.

The success rate of reattaching a knocked-out tooth depends on how quickly you take action and how well the tooth is preserved. In some cases, a dentist may need to splint the tooth to adjacent teeth to stabilize it during the healing process. Additionally, the dentist will assess the extent of any damage to the tooth and may recommend further treatment, such as a root canal.

Tooth sensitivity to cold, also known as dentin hypersensitivity, can be caused by various factors. It is a common dental issue, and understanding the underlying reasons for your sensitivity can help you address and manage the discomfort.

Here are some common reasons why your teeth may be sensitive to cold:

• Exposed dentin — Dentin is the layer of your tooth beneath the enamel and contains tiny tubules that lead to the tooth's nerve center. When dentin becomes exposed due to enamel erosion, gum recession, or tooth wear, it can lead to increased sensitivity to cold temperatures.
• Gum recession — Receding gums can expose the roots of your teeth, which are not protected by enamel. This can result from factors like gum disease, aggressive brushing, or aging. Exposed roots are highly sensitive to temperature changes.
• Tooth cracks or fractures — Cracks or fractures in your teeth can create pathways for temperature-sensitive nerves to be stimulated. If you have a cracked tooth, it can be particularly sensitive to cold air or liquids.
• Dental procedures — Some dental treatments, such as teeth whitening or dental fillings, can temporarily cause increased tooth sensitivity. This sensitivity usually subsides within a few days to weeks after the procedure.
• Tooth whitening products — Overuse of tooth-whitening products or using products with a high concentration of peroxide can lead to tooth sensitivity.
• Sinus infections — Occasionally, sinus issues can make your teeth feel sensitive to cold air or liquids, particularly in the upper teeth.
• Bruxism (teeth grinding) — Grinding or clenching your teeth, especially at night, can lead to enamel wear and tooth sensitivity.
• Certain dental conditions — Conditions such as enamel hypoplasia, where the enamel does not develop properly, can make teeth more sensitive.

If you are experiencing tooth sensitivity to cold, it is crucial to consult with a dentist. They can perform a thorough examination to determine the underlying cause of your sensitivity and recommend appropriate treatment.

The frequency of dental cleanings, also known as dental hygiene or prophylaxis appointments, can vary from person to person based on their individual oral health needs. However, there are some general guidelines that can help you determine how often you should have your teeth cleaned:

• Twice a year (every six months) — For many people with good oral health and a low risk of dental issues, scheduling dental cleanings every six months is a common recommendation. This schedule allows for the removal of plaque and tartar buildup, as well as a thorough examination to catch any potential dental problems early.
• Three to four times a year — Some individuals may benefit from more frequent dental cleanings, such as every three to four months. This is often recommended for people with a history of gum disease (periodontitis), a tendency to develop plaque and tartar quickly, or other oral health concerns. Your dentist or dental hygienist will determine if this more frequent schedule is appropriate for you.
• Once a year or less — In rare cases, individuals with exceptional oral health and minimal risk factors may be advised to have dental cleanings once a year or even less frequently. This decision is typically made on a case-by-case basis, taking into account factors like your oral hygiene habits and overall dental health.

Your dentist will assess your specific oral health condition during each visit and recommend a cleaning schedule tailored to your needs. Regular dental cleanings play a crucial role in preventing oral health issues and maintaining a healthy smile. They involve the removal of plaque and tartar that can lead to cavities and gum disease, as well as a thorough examination of your oral tissues to detect any emerging problems.