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FAQ

Dental Cleaning

Why is preventive dental care important?

Preventive dental care is essential for maintaining optimal oral health and preventing serious dental problems from developing. By visiting your dentist for routine cleanings, checkups, and screenings, you can catch any issues early on when they are more manageable and less expensive to treat.

How often should I get a dental cleaning?

We recommend that you get a dental cleaning every six months to maintain optimal oral health and prevent dental problems from developing.

Is a dental cleaning painful?

No, a dental cleaning is not painful. Our hygienists are trained to provide gentle, comfortable care, and if you feel any discomfort during your cleaning, they will adjust their techniques to accommodate your needs.

Will I need X-rays during my dental checkup?

It depends on your individual dental needs. Our dentist will recommend X-rays if they feel it is necessary to diagnose or monitor any potential issues with your teeth or surrounding structures.

How do I prepare for a dental cleaning or checkup?

To prepare for your appointment, please brush and floss your teeth before you arrive. Also, be sure to bring your dental insurance information and a list of any medications you are currently taking.

Dental Implants

Can dental implants be used to replace multiple missing teeth?

Yes, dental implants can be used to replace one or more missing teeth or a full arch of teeth. Our team will work with you to determine the best solution for your individual needs.

How much do dental implants cost?

The cost of dental implants can vary depending on the number of implants needed, the type of restoration required, and the patient's individual needs. During your consultation, our team will provide you with a detailed estimate and financing options if needed.

How long do dental implants last?

Dental implants are designed to last a lifetime with proper care and maintenance. In many cases, dental implants can last even longer than traditional dental restorations.

Is the placement of dental implants painful?

Our team uses the latest techniques and technologies to ensure that the placement of dental implants is as comfortable as possible. Most patients report minimal discomfort and are able to return to their normal activities within a few days.

What is the success rate of dental implants?

Dental implants have a very high success rate, with studies reporting success rates of over 95%.

Dental Sealants

Can I brush my teeth after dental sealants?

Yes, it is important to continue brushing after receiving sealants; however, avoiding hard foods like nuts or ice is advised. Most importantly, avoid hard or sticky candies like taffy, caramel candies, and other things such as these types of foods that can damage your sealant.

Does insurance cover dental sealants?

Because dental sealants are considered a preventative procedure, they are covered by most insurance plans for little to no cost. Check with your local dentist’s office near me to see what insurance they accept to help determine coverage.

Can teeth with sealants get cavities?

While sealants protect teeth, they do not protect the whole tooth, so it is still possible for them to form cavities in the areas the sealant does not protect.

At what age are dental sealants most effective?

The dental sealant procedure is most effective when children get their molars, around 6 for the first set and 12 for the second.

How long do dental sealants last?

With proper care, dental sealants from a dentist in Universal City can last up to 10 years.

Emergency

What should I do if I have a chipped or broken tooth?

If you have a chipped or broken tooth, it is important to seek prompt dental care. Rinse your mouth with warm water and contact Universal Dental immediately to schedule an appointment.

What should I do if I have a knocked-out tooth?

If you have a knocked-out tooth, it is important to act quickly to preserve the tooth. Rinse the tooth with water, do not remove any attached tissue, and contact Universal Dental immediately.

What should I do if I have a lost filling or crown?

If you have lost a filling or crown, it is important to seek prompt dental care to prevent further damage to the tooth. Contact Universal Dental, and we will make every effort to see you as soon as possible.

Is it necessary to see a dentist for a toothache?

Yes, it is important to see a dentist for a toothache, as it could be a sign of a more serious underlying condition. A dentist can diagnose the cause of the pain and provide the appropriate treatment.

What should I do if I have a dental emergency?

If you experience a dental emergency, it is important to seek prompt dental care to prevent further pain and damage to your teeth. Contact Universal Dental, and we will make every effort to see you as soon as possible.

Implant-Supported Restorations

At what point should you get dentures?

The majority of patients who get dentures are over the age of 40 and have suffered some degree of traumatic loss of teeth.

Are dentures as good as teeth?

Unfortunately, dentures do not compare to real teeth. However, getting dentures when you have lost most of your teeth is a way to restore your smile and your ability to enjoy some of the foods you love.

How long does it take for gums to heal after extractions for dentures?

The average healing time after a tooth extraction before any dental application can be placed is 6 to 8 weeks. This can vary by individual, though; in some cases, the dentist may wait longer depending on the number of teeth extracted and overall health.

How long will new dentures hurt?

It typically takes around 2 to 4 weeks for new dentures to settle; during this time, you will likely experience some pain or discomfort.

What should I ask when getting dentures?

You’ll typically want to ask your “denture clinic near me” how to care for your dentures, what to do if your dentures don’t fit or need maintenance, and general questions about the procedure.

Invisalign

How long does treatment with Invisalign take?

The length of treatment varies depending on the complexity of your case, but many patients complete their treatment in 12 to 18 months.

Is Invisalign painful?

You may experience some mild discomfort or pressure during the first few days of each aligner change, but this typically subsides quickly. Invisalign is generally much more comfortable than traditional braces.

Can I eat and drink with Invisalign?

Yes! Unlike traditional braces, you can remove your Invisalign aligners to eat, drink, brush, and floss.

Can Invisalign treat all types of orthodontic issues?

Invisalign can treat a wide range of orthodontic issues, including crowding, spacing, overbite, underbite, and crossbite. However, some cases may be more complex and require alternative treatment options.

How much does Invisalign cost?

The cost of Invisalign treatment varies depending on the complexity of your case and the length of treatment. During your consultation, we will provide you with a detailed estimate and discuss financing options to help make your treatment affordable.

Root Canal Treatment

Why is a root canal done in 2 stages?

A root canal is typically done in 2 or more stages to ensure the procedure has healed completely and the final sealing process can occur. The dentist usually waits for the procedure to heal to ensure no lingering damage or effects before sealing the tooth again. Visit our dentist in Universal City to learn more.

What are the do's and don’ts after a root canal?

Do brush and floss gently after your root canal. Don’t eat hard or crunchy foods after your root canal until it has healed. Don’t eat immediately after the root canal until the anesthesia wears off. Do go to all of your follow-up visits even if completely healed.

How long does a root canal take to heal?

Under normal circumstances, a root canal takes about a week to heal.

What are the steps for root canal treatment?

When you visit a dentist near me for a root canal, the procedure typically begins with anesthesia. Once this is applied, the dentist will begin by drilling an access hole before draining the pulp, cleaning the inner tooth, and resealing the tooth to prevent further damage.

Teeth Whitening

How long does the teeth whitening treatment take?

The length of the teeth whitening treatment depends on the type of treatment you choose. In-office treatments typically take just one hour, while take-home treatments can take up to two weeks. Our team will discuss the details of your treatment and help you find the best solution for your needs and schedule.

How much does teeth whitening cost?

The cost of teeth whitening varies depending on the type of treatment and the extent of staining. Our team will provide you with an estimate of the cost and discuss your options to help you find the best solution that fits your budget.

Can anyone get teeth whitening?

No, not everyone is a good candidate for teeth whitening. It depends on the health of your teeth and the extent of restorative dental work you have, as crowns and bridges do not respond to teeth bleaching treatment. Our team will assess your oral health and determine if teeth whitening is right for you.

Does teeth whitening hurt?

No, teeth whitening should not be painful. Some people may experience slight sensitivity during and after the treatment, but this is usually temporary and goes away within a few days.

Is teeth whitening safe?

Yes, teeth whitening is a safe and effective cosmetic dental treatment that has been used for many years. Our team of dental professionals will ensure that the treatment is done safely and with the highest quality of care.

Veneers

How do I care for my veneers?

Caring for your veneers is simple. Brush and floss your teeth as you normally would and avoid biting on hard objects such as ice or hard candy. You

Are veneers comfortable?

Veneers are designed to look and feel just like your natural teeth, so they should be comfortable once they are placed. You may experience some sensitivity or discomfort during the adjustment period, but this is typically minimal and temporary.

How long does it take to receive veneers?

Receiving veneers typically takes two visits to our office. During your first visit, we’ll evaluate your dental health and take impressions of your teeth. During your second visit, we’ll place the veneers.

Will I need to remove any of my natural tooth to receive veneers?

In most cases, a small amount of tooth structure may need to be removed to make room for the veneers. However, this is typically minimal and is done to ensure a natural-looking result.

Are veneers permanent?

Veneers are a long-lasting cosmetic solution, but they are not permanent. With proper care and maintenance, they can last for many years, but eventually, they may need to be replaced.

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