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FAQ

Dental cleanings

Do dental cleanings hurt?

No, cleanings are handled by trained dental hygienists who gently yet thoroughly clean and floss your teeth. They are generally quite painless. Patients who have periodontal (gum) disease may experience some tenderness or bleeding. However, you can prevent discomfort by going to the dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings.

Are cleanings covered by insurance?

For most patients, basic preventive care such as checkups and cleanings is covered 100% by insurance. In-depth periodontal (“deep”) cleaning may be covered in part between 50%-80%, depending on your coverage. We will be sure to confirm your benefits and help you understand your insurance coverage to make the most of the coverage you’re owed.

How often should I see the dentist?

You should have your teeth checked and cleaned at least twice a year, though your dentist or dental hygienist may recommend more frequent visits. Regular dental exams and cleaning visits are essential in preventing dental problems and maintaining the health of your teeth and gums. At these visits, your teeth are cleaned and checked for cavities. Additionally, there are many other things that are checked and monitored to help detect, prevent, and maintain your dental health.

Why is it important to floss?

Brushing our teeth removes food particles, plaque, and bacteria from all tooth surfaces, except in between the teeth. Unfortunately, our toothbrushes can’t reach these areas that are highly susceptible to decay and periodontal (gum) disease. Daily flossing is the best way to clean between the teeth and under the gumline. Flossing not only helps clean these spaces, but it also disrupts plaque colonies from building up, preventing damage to the gums, teeth, and bone.

Teeth Whitening

Is teeth whitening safe?

Yes, teeth whitening is a safe procedure. The peroxide-based bleaching gels we use are specifically formulated, using ingredients that gently brighten teeth without causing damage or irritation to your gums. 

Does teeth whitening hurt?

Teeth whitening is a gentle procedure that can lift years of stains from the surfaces of your teeth. While we strive to prevent any discomfort you may experience during or after your teeth whitening treatment, some temporary tooth sensitivity may occur. Your dentist will discuss ways to prevent or reduce sensitivity during your visit.

How long does teeth whitening last?

Teeth whitening is not permanent. A touchup may be needed every 6-12 months, and more often if you smoke, drink coffee, tea, or wine. You can expect your whitening results to last a year or more with good at-home brushing and flossing. You can also extend your whitening results by keeping up with your regular cleaning schedule.

Emergency

Is an emergency dental exam expensive?

The total cost of your treatment will depend on your case and unique needs. That said, we do everything we can to offer affordable dental care at transparent prices, including all emergency services. We also offer flexible financing options to help you cover all out-of-pocket expenses.

Do you accept walk-ins?

Yes, we invite new and returning patients to visit us for the care they need! Our team will see you as promptly as possible. For same-day emergency care, visit or call us today.

Should I go to the ER for a dental emergency?

Dental emergencies can sometimes be frightening and we understand your first instinct may be to go to the hospital. But unless you’re experiencing severe symptoms of uncontrolled bleeding or swelling, you should contact your local dentist right away.

Dental Implants

How much do dental implants cost?

The fee for tooth replacement with dental implants depends on several factors, including the number of teeth being replaced and the number of dental implants required to support your replacement teeth. Some additional procedures may be required prior to the placement of your dental implants to ensure the long-term health of your dental implants. To obtain a specific fee estimate, it is necessary to have a doctor examine your mouth. After a thorough diagnostic examination, your dentist will recommend the treatment that is best for you.

What happens if I don’t get an implant?

If you’ve lost one or more teeth, it’s important to replace them as soon as you can. Missing teeth can impact your oral health as well as your overall physical well-being, causing problems biting, chewing, and eating properly. You also have a greater chance of developing gum disease, TMJ, crooked teeth, and other issues if you go without replacing your missing teeth.

How long does it take to get an implant?

Today, state-of-the-art guided surgical techniques are convenient alternatives to place dental implants and allow you to have the dental implant placed in a single session using keyhole surgery. This new method has significantly simplified the procedure, for both patients and dentists. The major advantage of the guided surgical technique is the minimal amount of manipulation of the soft tissue due to keyhole surgery. This significantly reduces the healing time and the discomfort normally associated with traditional dental implant surgical techniques.

The conventional process can take from three to six months. First, the dentist places the dental implant, which is left for three to six months to heal and integrate with the jawbone. During the healing period, you are given a temporary prosthesis until the permanent crown is put in place.

The procedure chosen depends on several factors, such as your dental health, the number of teeth involved, and which teeth are replaced. These factors will also determine the total number of visits to the dentist throughout the treatment period.

Who is a candidate for dental implants?

Anyone who is missing one or more teeth due to injury, disease, or tooth decay may be a candidate for dental implants. The determining factor is the amount of available bone. Your dentist is the best person to evaluate whether dental implants are a viable solution for you.

Do implants hurt?

With any surgery, there can be some discomfort. Placing one implant normally causes less discomfort than placing several. Anesthesia and patient sedation are commonly administered to help reduce any discomfort during the dental implant process. Most patients report that they were much more comfortable following the procedure than they had anticipated. Your doctor will prescribe medications to ease any discomfort that may occur. Ask your dentist to recommend another patient who has already had tooth replacement therapy to assess their personal experience.

Invisalign

What are the benefits of Invisalign?

Invisalign orthodontic aligners are transparent and are barely noticeable when you speak or smile. The aligners are also removable, so you can enjoy your favorite meals and snacks without damaging your aligners or impacting your treatment. This makes Invisalign an excellent choice for busy adults or teens involved in sports activities in which metal braces present challenges.

Can teens get Invisalign?

Yes, teens can benefit from Invisalign treatment. Many young patients may be candidates for clear aligners, so be sure to talk to our team about an Invisalign consultation for your teen or tween.

Can I finance the cost of my Invisalign treatment?

Yes, you can! We offer affordable financing options through CareCredit, Denefits, and Sunbit. Thanks to our partnership with these financing companies, you can cover the cost of your treatment with affordable monthly payment plans.

Is Invisalign covered by insurance?

The cost of Invisalign treatment is typically covered in part by most dental insurance plans. Your out-of-pocket expenses will depend on your plan and stated benefits. We’ll be sure to confirm your benefits to help you make the most of your coverage. 

How much does Invisalign cost?

Invisalign is a flexible treatment that can be tailored to your needs. We’ll have to perform a full assessment of your teeth during your consultation so we can provide you with a breakdown of all treatment costs. That said, Invisalign is comparable to the cost of braces, making it affordable for most patients.

Veneers

How do I care for my veneers?

Following your procedure, you will receive care instructions for veneers. You can care for your veneers just like natural teeth. Proper brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new veneers.

What kind of veneers can I get?

Veneers can be made from a variety of materials. We offer high-quality veneers made from porcelain. Each material is chosen for its strength, durability, and lifelike appearance.

Are veneers permanent?

Veneers are a permanent cosmetic procedure. They need a thin layer of enamel to be removed from your teeth prior to placement and are bonded to the remaining tooth structure. For this reason, only a trained dental professional can make repairs or adjustments to your veneers.

How long do veneers last?

As with most dental restorations, veneers are not permanent and may someday need replacement. They are very durable and will last many years, giving you a beautiful long lasting smile. Porcelain veneers typically last 10-15 years. Veneers made from composite resin will typically last 5-7 years.

Do veneers hurt?

Generally, no. Patients who receive 2-4 veneers typically experience no discomfort. However, patients who receive eight or more veneers may experience some sensitivity or tenderness in the gums. Your dentist will take every precaution during your veneer preparation and administer local anesthetic as needed to ensure your comfort.

How long does it take to get veneers?

Getting veneers usually requires two visits to complete the process, with little or no anesthesia required during the procedure. The teeth are prepared by lightly buffing and shaping the surface to allow for the thickness of the veneer. A mold or impression of the teeth is taken and a shade (color) will then be chosen by you and the dentist.

On the second visit, the teeth will be cleansed with special liquids to achieve a durable bond. Bonding cement is then placed between the tooth and veneer and a special light beam is used to harden and set the bond.

Hoffman Smiles is proud to serve our dental family.