Restorative Dentistry FAQs
- A dental crown is a custom-made cap that restores the shape, strength, and appearance of a tooth.
- Crowns are recommended for cracked teeth, heavily worn teeth, large fillings, or after root canal treatment.
- With proper care, crowns typically last 10–15 years or longer.
- Crowns are usually made of porcelain or ceramic for a natural appearance.
- Treatment is performed with local anesthesia and is generally very comfortable.
What to Expect After Treatment
- Mild soreness or gum tenderness
- Temporary sensitivity to hot or cold
- Slight bite awareness
What Patients Can Do
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers as needed
- Avoid sticky or hard foods for a few days
- Chew on the opposite side if sensitive
- Brush and floss normally, gently around the crown
Call the office if: discomfort lasts more than a few days, the bite feels off, or the crown feels loose.
- Professional whitening is safe and supervised to protect enamel and gums.
- Most patients see teeth whiten several shades.
- Results typically last 6–12 months or longer.
- Temporary sensitivity may occur.
- Whitening works on natural teeth only (not crowns or fillings).
What to Expect After Treatment
- Temporary tooth sensitivity
- Mild gum irritation
- Teeth appear brightest in the first 24–48 hours
What Patients Can Do
- Use desensitizing toothpaste
- Avoid very hot or cold foods for 24–48 hours
- Follow a “white diet” for 24 hours (no coffee, wine, berries, dark sauces)
- Pause whitening trays if sensitivity occurs
Call the office if: sensitivity is severe or does not resolve in a few days.
- Composite fillings are tooth-colored restorations used to repair cavities.
- They bond directly to the tooth and are more aesthetic than silver fillings.
- Fillings typically last 5–10 years or longer.
- They may stain over time but are maintained with cleanings.
- Treatment is performed with local anesthesia.
What to Expect After Treatment
- Temporary sensitivity to temperature or pressure
- Temporary numbness
- Slight bite awareness
What Patients Can Do
- Avoid chewing until numbness wears off
- Use toothpaste for sensitive teeth
- Avoid hard or sticky foods for 24 hours
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers if needed
Call the office if: sensitivity lasts longer than 1–2 weeks, pain increases, or bite feels uneven.
Hygiene and Periodontal FAQs
- Scaling and root planing is a deep cleaning procedure used to treat gum disease.
- It removes plaque and tartar from below the gumline and smooths the tooth roots.
- Treatment is often completed in sections using local anesthesia for comfort.
- This procedure helps reduce inflammation and promote gum reattachment.
- Regular maintenance visits are important after treatment.
What to Expect After Treatment
- Gum tenderness or soreness
- Mild swelling or bleeding
- Temporary tooth sensitivity
What Patients Can Do
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers as needed
- Eat softer foods for the first day or two
- Brush gently with a soft toothbrush
- Rinse with warm salt water if recommended
Call the office if: discomfort worsens, bleeding does not improve, or swelling increases.
- Laser curettage is a minimally invasive procedure used to reduce bacteria and inflamed tissue in periodontal pockets.
- It is often performed in conjunction with scaling and root planing.
- The laser promotes healing while preserving healthy tissue.
- Most patients experience minimal discomfort (no burning)
- Laser therapy can support improved gum health and healing.
What to Expect After Treatment
- Mild gum tenderness
- Slight warmth or tingling in treated areas
- Minimal bleeding
What Patients Can Do
- Avoid spicy or crunchy foods for 24 hours
- Maintain gentle brushing and flossing
- Follow any rinsing instructions provided
Call the office if: pain increases or healing does not progress as expected.
- Localized antibiotics are placed directly into periodontal pockets to reduce bacteria.
- They are commonly used alongside scaling and root planing.
- The medication is released slowly over time.
- The procedure is quick and comfortable.
- This treatment supports gum healing and infection control.
What to Expect After Treatment
- Mild gum tenderness
- A feeling of medication in the area
- Minimal sensitivity
What Patients Can Do
- Avoid flossing or water-piking treated areas for 7–10 days (unless instructed otherwise)
- Continue gentle brushing
- Avoid hard or sticky foods in treated area
Call the office if: discomfort increases or medication becomes dislodged.
- Local anesthetic is used to numb a specific area for comfort during treatment.
- Patients remain fully awake and aware.
- Numbness typically lasts a few hours.
- Anesthetic improves comfort during deep cleanings and procedures.
- Tingling may occur as sensation returns.
What to Expect After Treatment
- Temporary numbness of lips, cheeks, tongue, or teeth
- Tingling as numbness wears off
What Patients Can Do
- Avoid chewing until numbness fully wears off
- Be careful not to bite lips or tongue
- Choose soft foods if eating shortly after treatment
Call the office if: numbness lasts longer than expected or discomfort increases.
- Oraqix is a non-injectable topical anesthetic gel.
- It is commonly used during scaling and root planing.
- Oraqix works quickly and wears off faster than traditional anesthetic.
- No needles are required.
- Patients can often resume normal activities sooner.
What to Expect After Treatment
- Mild numbness in the treated area
- Tingling sensation
- Faster return of normal sensation
What Patients Can Do
- Avoid very hot foods until sensation returns
- Resume normal oral hygiene routines
- Eat cautiously until numbness subsides
Call the office if: numbness persists longer than expected or irritation occurs
Preventive Dentistry FAQs
- Fluoride strengthens enamel and helps prevent cavities.
- It is beneficial for both children and adults.
- Fluoride treatments are quick and painless.
- Treatments help reduce tooth sensitivity.
- Professional fluoride provides higher concentration than over-the-counter products.
What to Expect After Treatment
- A temporary coating on the teeth
- No pain or sensitivity
What Patients Can Do
- Avoid eating or drinking for 30 minutes after treatment
- Resume normal brushing later that day
Call the office if: you have questions or experience unexpected irritation (rare).
What are dental sealants?
Dental sealants are thin, protective coatings that are applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth (molars and premolars). These teeth have deep grooves where food particles and bacteria can easily accumulate, making them more vulnerable to cavities. Sealants create a smooth barrier over these grooves, helping prevent decay.
Who should get dental sealants?
Sealants are most commonly recommended for children and teenagers when their permanent molars first erupt, typically around ages 6 and 12. However, adults with deep grooves in their teeth or those who are at higher risk for cavities may also benefit from sealants.
- Night guards protect teeth from grinding or clenching during sleep.
- Clean daily with a soft toothbrush and non-abrasive cleaner.
- Night guards typically last 2–5 years.
- Patients should bring their night guard to regular dental visits.
- Night guards are designed for nighttime use only.
What to Expect
- Increased saliva initially
- Mild jaw soreness or pressure
- A bulky feeling that improves within days
What Patients Can Do
- Wear the guard consistently
- Gently stretch the jaw in the morning
- Clean daily and store in ventilated case
Call the office if: the guard causes pain, feels loose or tight, or shows damage.
Implants FAQs
- Implant restoration is the final step where a crown, bridge, or denture is placed on the implant.
- Restoration usually occurs 3–6 months after implant placement.
- Restorations are custom-designed to look natural.
- With proper care, restorations can last many years.
- Implants require routine brushing, flossing, and dental visits.
What to Expect After Treatment
- Mild soreness or pressure
- Slight gum tenderness
What Patients Can Do
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers as needed
- Eat softer foods for 1–2 days
- Gently brush and floss the area
- Avoid chewing hard foods directly on the implant initially
Call the office if: pain worsens, inflammation persists, or the restoration feels loose.
Dental implants are advanced dental devices used to replace missing teeth. They consist of a titanium post that is surgically implanted into the jawbone, acting as a root for a false tooth (crown). Over time, the implant fuses with the bone, providing a stable and durable foundation for the replacement tooth.
With proper care and maintenance, dental implants can last a lifetime. The success rate of dental implants is very high, and they are designed to be a permanent solution for tooth loss. Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene are essential to ensure the longevity of your implants.
The procedure to place dental implants is typically performed under local anesthesia, so you shouldn’t feel pain during the surgery. Post-operative discomfort is usually minimal and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. Most patients report that the discomfort is less than they expected and is significantly less than the discomfort of a tooth extraction.
Caring for dental implants is similar to caring for your natural teeth. This includes regular brushing and flossing, using an antibacterial mouthwash, and attending routine dental check-ups and cleanings. Although implants cannot decay, they can still be affected by gum disease, so maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial.
Most people who are in good general health and have sufficient bone in their jaw to support an implant are candidates for dental implants. Conditions like uncontrolled diabetes, cancer, radiation to the jaws, smoking, alcoholism, or uncontrolled periodontal (gum) disease may affect whether dental implants will fuse to your bone. It’s important to disclose your full medical history to your dentist during the consultation.
Sleep Apnea Treatment FAQs
Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. The most common type, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), occurs when the muscles in the back of the throat relax and temporarily block the airway. These interruptions in breathing can occur dozens or even hundreds of times per night, preventing the body from getting the oxygen it needs for restful sleep.
Many people with sleep apnea are unaware they have the condition. Common symptoms include:
- Loud snoring
- Pauses in breathing during sleep
- Waking up gasping or choking
- Morning headaches
- Daytime fatigue or excessive sleepiness
- Difficulty concentrating
- Dry mouth or sore throat upon waking
If you or your partner notice these symptoms, a sleep evaluation may be recommended.
Untreated sleep apnea can affect much more than sleep quality. Research has linked sleep apnea to several serious health conditions, including high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and chronic fatigue. Poor sleep can also impact mood, memory, and overall quality of life.
Diagnosis typically involves a sleep study, which may be conducted at a sleep center or through a convenient at-home sleep test. The study measures breathing patterns, oxygen levels, heart rate, and sleep cycles to determine whether sleep apnea is present and how severe it may be.
Treatment depends on the severity of the condition. The most commonly prescribed treatment is Continuous Positive Airway Pressure, which keeps the airway open by delivering gentle air pressure during sleep.
For many patients with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea, a custom oral appliance made by a dentist can be an effective alternative. These appliances reposition the lower jaw slightly forward to help keep the airway open during sleep.
Dentists trained in dental sleep medicine can provide custom oral appliances designed to improve airway function during sleep. These devices are comfortable, portable, and easy to wear, making them a popular option for patients who cannot tolerate CPAP therapy or prefer a less cumbersome treatment.
Oral appliances can:
- Reduce or eliminate snoring
- Improve airflow during sleep
- Increase oxygen levels
- Improve sleep quality and daytime energy
- Provide a comfortable alternative to CPAP for many patients
Invisalign® FAQs
Invisalign® works differently from traditional braces. Invisalign® aligns your teeth by using clear aligners, which apply pressure to the teeth in your mouth that need to be corrected. Each set of Invisalign® clear aligners is worn for approximately 20-22 hours per day. On average, you’ll receive a new clear aligner every 1-2 weeks during your treatment time. Every new aligner you get will align your teeth more and more, until your teeth are adjusted to their final position. During the process, you’ll need to have occasional office visits to ensure that it is working correctly.
InformationInvisalign® typically takes between 12-18 months. You may require more or less time depending on the condition(s) of what needs to be corrected. here
If you’re evaluating different orthodontic treatment methods, you’re probably curious about the benefits of Invisalign®! It can help your smile in a variety of ways, all while being visually discreet, comfortable, and convenient.
Correct Your Smile
Dental issues such as crooked teeth, overlapping teeth, gaps in your teeth, and an uneven bite can cause additional dental problems in the future. When you correctly align your teeth with Invisalign®, you’re not only correcting those issues, you’re also more likely to have better oral health down the road.
Shorter Treatment Time
A typical Invisalign® treatment period is 12-18 months. Traditional braces are usually less precise and require more time to correct the same issues. Traditional braces also require more office visits during the treatment period. The bottom line is if you choose Invisalign®, you’re saving yourself time.
Convenient
Invisalign® clear aligners are made to be taken out during meals, so you won’t be limited by the dietary restrictions that accompany traditional braces. Additionally, you can remove the aligners during your normal dental cleaning routine, so you won’t have to buy special equipment or adjust your routine.
Comfortable
Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign® clear aligners are made from a smooth plastic material that comfortably fits around your teeth and is custom fitted to your exact smile.
The cost of Invisalign® varies depending on a variety of factors specific to your treatment plan. To get an accurate estimate of how much Invisalign® will cost you in the Scottsdale, AZ area, schedule an appointment for an initial evaluation today!
Emergency Dentistry FAQs
We prioritize emergency cases and aim to see you as soon as possible.
Yes, we accept most major dental insurances.
Keep the broken piece, if possible, and call us immediately.
Costs vary based on treatment, but we aim to provide affordable care and offer payment plans.
Scheduling and Billing FAQs
How do I schedule an appointment?
Appointments can be scheduled by calling our office during business hours or by submitting a request through our website. A team member will follow up to confirm your appointment.
What if I need to reschedule or cancel?
We kindly ask for at least 48 hours’ notice for changes or cancellations so we can offerthe time to another patient.
Do you offer emergency appointments?
Yes. Please call the office as soon as possible if you are experiencing pain, swelling, or a dental emergency.
Do you accept my insurance?
We work with many dental insurance plans. Coverage varies by plan, so we encourage patients to contact our office so we can help verify benefits.
What does it mean if you are “out of network”?
Being out of network does not mean your insurance cannot be used. Many plans still provide benefits, and patients often have flexibility in choosing their dentist.
Will my insurance cover my procedure?
Dental insurance is based on the plan purchased by the patient and often has limitations, waiting periods, deductibles, and annual maximums. Coverage is not guaranteed.
Why Didn’t My Insurance Cover My Procedure?
Dental insurance is not the same as medical insurance. Reasons coverage may be limited or denied include:
- The procedure is not covered under your plan
- Frequency limitations (for example, cleanings or X-rays)
- Annual maximum benefits have been reached
- Deductible has not been met
- The procedure is considered cosmetic or elective by the insurance provider
While we are happy to submit claims and assist with estimates, insurance companies—not the dental office—determine coverage and payment.
What payment options do you accept?
We accept:
- Major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover)
- CareCredit® financing
- Cash or check (if applicable)
What is CareCredit®?
CareCredit® is a healthcare credit card that allows patients to break treatment costs into monthly payments, often with promotional interest-free options depending on the plan.
When is payment due?
Payment is due at the time services are rendered. For larger treatment plans, financial arrangements can be discussed in advance.
We provide treatment estimates based on information received from your insurance carrier.
- Estimates are not a guarantee of payment.
- Any remaining balance after insurance processes the claim is the patient’s responsibility.
KöR Teeth Whitening FAQs
The KöR Whitening System works by restoring your teeth’s ability to absorb oxygen. The oxygen from KöR Whitening gel
is absorbed deeply into the tooth, dissolving stain molecules.
Unlike other whitening methods, with easy periodic home maintenance, KöR Whitening is entirely permanent.
Whitening products have been clinically studied and safely used on millions of patients without harm to teeth or gums.
Whitening is considered entirely safe.
After several years of research, development and clinical testing, KöR Whitening introduced a whitening gel that, in
most cases, produces little to no sensitivity. As a result, most patients have no discomfort from whitening when using this
system. Testing has shown that patients who do feel some sensitivity using KöR Whitening typically feel no more than 10% of the sensitivity they’d feel from other whitening gels.
The ideal age to whiten teeth is about 14. The younger teeth are, the more brilliantly they whiten. However, KöR Whitening rejuvenates even older teeth so that they will whiten incredibly well, even for patients 90 years old!
KöR Whitening whitens teeth dramatically, often lightening them 16 shades or more. Although everyone is different, with
the proper KöR Whitening System, all teeth will have stunning results. It even whitens tetracycline-stained teeth significantly.
No. Real teeth can’t look unnatural, they just look beautifully white. If you have seen people with ultra-white, fake-looking
teeth, these were probably false teeth, teeth with porcelain crowns, or veneers that may have been made too white and
too opaque. With KöR Whitening, you’ll get the ideal shade that’s right for you.
No. If you have any of these on your front teeth, you may need to replace some of them after whitening.
With your easy home maintenance, these staining foods will have no effect on the brilliant color of your teeth.
Molds of your teeth will be made to fabricate your own unique, ultra-comfortable KöR-Seal™ Whitening Trays. You and your dentist will select which level of KöR Whitening is the proper fit for you. You will normally wear your KöR-Seal Trays at home for two weeks while you sleep. Depending on your selection, you may also have one or two simple whitening visits in the dental office.
No. KöR-Seal™ Whitening Trays are very different from typical whitening trays.
They’re comfortable: because they’re thin and ultra form-fitting, you’ll forget they’re even in your mouth.
They’re secure: KöR-Seal Whitening Trays seal the
whitening gel inside the tray, preventing the gel from quickly leaking into your mouth.
They’re convenient: by wearing these only while you sleep, it doesn’t interfere with your busy day.