Dental Checkups
What payment options do you accept?
We accept cash, credit cards, and CareCredit. We also offer flexible financing options to fit your budget.
What technology do you use?
We utilize advanced technology including digital X-rays, intraoral cameras, and CBCT imaging for precise diagnostics and treatment planning.
What if I'm nervous about visiting the dentist?
We understand dental anxiety and offer various comfort options including laughing gas to help you relax during your visit.
Is parking available?
Yes, we offer free parking for all our patients.
What if I haven't been to the dentist in years?
We maintain a judgment-free environment and welcome patients regardless of how long it's been since their last visit. Our goal is to help you achieve optimal oral health moving forward.
What amenities do you offer?
We provide Netflix, wireless headphones, blankets, pillows, and warm scented towels to ensure your comfort.
Do you see children?
Yes! We provide family-friendly dental care and can often schedule multiple family members for the same day.
What insurance do you accept?
We work with most major insurance providers and offer flexible payment options including CareCredit.
How often should I get a dental checkup?
Most patients should visit every six months for optimal oral health. However, some may need more frequent visits based on their individual needs.
Do you provide emergency dental care?
Yes, we accommodate same-day emergency appointments whenever possible.
Invisalign
How often do I need check-ups?
Most patients visit us every 6-8 weeks to monitor progress and receive new sets of aligners.
Is Invisalign right for everyone?
While Invisalign works for most alignment issues, we'll evaluate your specific needs during consultation to determine the best treatment option.
Will Invisalign affect my speech?
Most patients experience a brief adjustment period of a few days with minimal speech changes.
Are there food restrictions with Invisalign?
No food restrictions since aligners are removed for eating and drinking.
How do I clean my aligners?
Clean aligners daily with lukewarm water and gentle soap or specialized Invisalign cleaning solutions.
Can I eat with Invisalign?
Remove your aligners while eating and drinking anything besides water, then clean your teeth before reinserting.
How often should I wear my aligners?
For optimal results, wear your aligners 20-22 hours per day, removing them only for eating, drinking, and cleaning.
How much does Invisalign cost?
Treatment costs vary based on complexity. We offer flexible financing options and work with many insurance plans.
Is Invisalign painful?
Most patients experience minimal discomfort that subsides within a few days of wearing new aligners.
How long does Invisalign treatment take?
Treatment typically takes 12-18 months, though timing varies based on individual needs.
Veneers
What if a veneer becomes damaged?
While veneers are durable, they can be replaced if damaged. Contact us immediately if you experience any issues with your veneers.
How do I care for my veneers?
Maintain your veneers with regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups. Avoid using abrasive toothpaste or hard-bristled brushes.
Can veneers stain?
Porcelain veneers are highly stain-resistant and maintain their color better than natural teeth.
Are veneers covered by insurance?
As a cosmetic procedure, veneers are typically not covered by insurance. We offer various financing options to help make treatment affordable.
Is the procedure painful?
Most patients experience minimal discomfort. We use local anesthesia and offer comfort amenities to ensure a relaxing experience.
Can I eat normally with veneers?
Yes, you can enjoy most foods. However, we recommend avoiding excessive force and very hard items that could damage the veneers.
How many appointments are needed?
Most veneer treatments require 2-3 appointments from consultation to final placement.
Will veneers look natural?
Our custom-crafted veneers are designed to match your natural teeth in color, translucency, and shape.
Are veneers permanent?
Yes, veneers are considered a permanent treatment as the process requires removing a small amount of tooth enamel.
How long do veneers last?
With proper care and maintenance, porcelain veneers typically last 10-15 years or longer.
Dental Implants
When can I return to work after implant surgery?
Most patients return to work within 1-2 days, though individual recovery times may vary.
Can implants replace all my missing teeth?
Yes, implants can support single crowns, bridges, or full arch replacements depending on your needs.
What makes Essential Dental different for implant treatment?
Our office uses surgical guides to precisely plan and place implants exactly where we want them to be. This means better care and lasting results for you.
How do I care for my dental implants?
Implants require the same care as natural teeth: regular brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings.
Will my insurance cover dental implants?
Coverage varies by provider. Our team will help you understand your benefits and maximize your insurance coverage.
Can I get implants if I have bone loss?
Yes, bone grafting procedures can help create adequate support for successful implant placement.
How long do dental implants last?
With proper care and maintenance, dental implants can last a lifetime. Regular dental check-ups help ensure their longevity.
How much do dental implants cost?
The cost varies based on your specific needs. We'll provide a detailed treatment plan and discuss financing options during your consultation.
How long does the dental implant process take?
The entire process typically takes 3-6 months, depending on your individual case and healing time. Some patients may qualify for same-day implants.
Are dental implants painful?
Most patients report minimal discomfort during and after the procedure. We provide appropriate anesthesia and detailed post-care instructions for your comfort.
Teeth Whitening
Can I whiten my crowns or veneers?
Artificial dental work doesn't respond to whitening. We can discuss options for matching existing restorations.
Is whitening covered by insurance?
Cosmetic whitening is typically not covered by insurance. We offer flexible payment options to make treatment affordable.
How can I maintain my results?
Good oral hygiene, avoiding staining substances, and periodic touch-ups help maintain your brighter smile longer.
How soon can I eat after treatment?
We recommend waiting 24-48 hours before consuming staining foods and beverages to maximize results.
Can all stains be removed?
Most external stains respond well to whitening. Some internal stains may require alternative cosmetic treatments.
How long does the treatment take?
In-office whitening typically takes 60-90 minutes. Take-home treatments are used daily for 1-2 weeks.
How white will my teeth get?
Results vary by individual, but most patients see an improvement of several shades. We'll discuss realistic expectations during your consultation.
Will teeth whitening cause sensitivity?
Some patients may experience temporary sensitivity, which typically resolves within 24-48 hours. We can adjust treatment to minimize discomfort.
Is professional teeth whitening safe?
Yes, professional whitening is safe when performed under dental supervision. We take precautions to protect your teeth and gums.
How long does professional teeth whitening last?
Results typically last 6-12 months with proper care and maintenance. Touch-ups may be needed depending on lifestyle habits.
Emergency Dentistry
How do I know if my toothache requires emergency care?
If your toothache is severe, persistent, accompanied by swelling or fever, or triggered by injury, you should seek emergency dental care promptly.
What types of treatments are provided during an emergency visit?
Emergency treatments can include pain relief, tooth repairs, extractions, root canals, infection management, and temporary or permanent restorations.
What should I bring to my emergency dental appointment?
Bring your dental insurance information, a list of current medications, any relevant dental records, and the knocked-out tooth if applicable.
How can I prevent dental emergencies?
Maintain good oral hygiene, avoid chewing hard foods or objects, wear a mouthguard during sports, and visit your dentist regularly for checkups.
Are same-day emergency dental appointments available?
Yes, we prioritize emergency patients and offer same-day appointments to provide fast relief and treatment.
Can you treat a knocked-out tooth, and how should I preserve it?
Yes, a knocked-out tooth can often be saved if treated promptly. Handle it by the crown, rinse gently, and keep it moist by placing it in milk or saliva. Bring it with you to your appointment immediately.
How quickly should I see a dentist after a dental injury?
You should see a dentist as soon as possible—ideally the same day—to prevent complications and increase the chance of saving damaged teeth.
What can I do at home to manage dental pain before my appointment?
Use a cold compress to reduce swelling, take over-the-counter pain relievers, and avoid very hot or cold foods. Rinse your mouth with warm salt water and avoid chewing on the injured side.
What qualifies as a dental emergency?
A dental emergency typically involves severe pain, bleeding, broken or knocked-out teeth, infections, or swelling. Any situation causing intense discomfort or risk to your oral health should be treated as urgent.