FAQ

Regular dental checkups are essential for maintaining optimal oral health. They allow our experienced team to monitor your teeth and gums, detect early signs of issues, and provide preventive care to prevent more extensive problems in the future.

We recommend scheduling a dental checkup every six months. However, the frequency may vary based on your individual oral health needs. Our team will help you determine the best schedule during your initial visit.

A dental checkup involves three main components: teeth cleaning, dental exams, and oral cancer screening. During a teeth cleaning, our skilled hygienists remove plaque, tartar, and stains. Dental exams include a thorough inspection of your teeth, gums, and bite. An oral cancer screening helps detect any early signs of oral cancer.

Teeth cleaning is generally a comfortable procedure. Our hygienists use gentle techniques to ensure minimal discomfort. If you experience any sensitivity, please let us know so we can adjust our approach accordingly.

If we identify any dental issues, we will discuss them with you and recommend appropriate treatment options. Addressing issues early can prevent them from worsening and potentially requiring more invasive treatments.

Yes, X-rays are often a part of dental checkups. X-rays help us identify issues that may not be visible during a visual examination, such as cavities between teeth or problems beneath the gumline.

Yes, an oral cancer screening is an important part of your checkup. Oral cancer can develop without obvious symptoms, making early detection crucial for successful treatment.

Many dental insurance plans cover regular dental checkups as part of preventive care. We recommend contacting your insurance provider to understand your coverage. Lakeside Smiles accepts a variety of insurance plans and can help you navigate your benefits.

Consistent oral hygiene practices at home are essential. Brush your teeth twice a day, floss daily, and maintain a balanced diet. Avoid tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption. Regularly replacing toothbrushes and using fluoride toothpaste also contribute to good oral health.

We understand that dental anxiety is common. Our team is experienced in helping patients feel comfortable and relaxed during their visits. We offer a supportive environment and can discuss options like sedation dentistry to ease your anxiety.

With proper care and maintenance, crowns and bridges can last for many years, often a decade or more. Regular dental checkups and good oral hygiene practices play a crucial role in their longevity.

No, the procedure is not painful. Local anesthesia is used to ensure your comfort during the process. We also offer sedation options for your relaxation. Some mild discomfort might be experienced after the procedure, but it is usually temporary.

The crown placement process involves preparation of the tooth, taking impressions, crafting the custom crown, and bonding it to the prepared tooth. Our team ensures your comfort at every step.

While both restore teeth, a crown covers a single tooth, whereas a bridge replaces one or more missing teeth. Bridges are anchored to adjacent teeth or implants and "bridge" the gap created by missing teeth.

Yes, once you're accustomed to your new crown or bridge, you can enjoy most foods without restrictions. However, it's advisable to avoid extremely hard or sticky foods that could potentially damage your restoration.

Modern dental technology allows us to create crowns and bridges that closely match the color and appearance of your natural teeth. They are designed to be discreet, blending seamlessly with your smile.

Caring for your crown or bridge is similar to caring for your natural teeth. Maintain a consistent oral hygiene routine of brushing, flossing, and regular checkups to ensure their longevity.

Yes, if your crown or bridge becomes damaged or requires replacement over time, our skilled team can assess the situation and recommend appropriate solutions to restore your smile's health and beauty.

Yes, if your crown or bridge becomes damaged or requires replacement over time, our skilled team can assess the situation and recommend appropriate solutions to restore your smile's health and beauty.

Many dental insurance plans offer coverage for crowns and bridges, especially if they are deemed necessary for your oral health. Our team can assist you in understanding your insurance benefits and maximizing your coverage.

Yes, dental implants are an alternative to bridges for replacing missing teeth. Dental implants provide a secure and permanent solution that mimics the look and function of natural teeth.

Invisalign is an excellent option for both teens and adults with mild to moderate orthodontic issues. Our skilled team at Lakeside Smiles will evaluate your unique situation and determine if Invisalign is the right fit for your smile goals.

Yes, Invisalign aligners are virtually invisible. They're made from a clear, smooth plastic that is custom-designed to fit your teeth precisely. This means you can enjoy your journey to a straighter smile without the noticeable appearance of traditional braces.

Invisalign treatment is generally more comfortable than traditional braces. You might experience some minor discomfort when you switch to a new set of aligners, but this is a sign that the treatment is working as intended. Most patients find the discomfort to be temporary and manageable.

For optimal results, you should wear your Invisalign aligners for 20-22 hours a day, removing them only for eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing. Consistency in wearing your aligners ensures that your treatment progresses as planned.

The duration of Invisalign treatment varies depending on your individual needs and goals. On average, treatment can take anywhere from several months to a couple of years. Our expert team will provide you with a personalized estimate during your consultation.

No, you should remove your aligners before eating or drinking anything other than water. This prevents food particles and liquids from getting trapped between your aligners and your teeth, ensuring your aligners remain clear and your teeth stay healthy.

Maintaining proper oral hygiene is crucial during Invisalign treatment. Clean your aligners gently with a soft toothbrush and lukewarm water to prevent discoloration and odor. Brush and floss your teeth before reinserting your aligners to avoid trapping bacteria.

Once your Invisalign treatment is complete, you'll transition to wearing retainers. Retainers help maintain your newly aligned smile by preventing your teeth from shifting back to their original positions. Our team will guide you on how to incorporate retainers into your routine.

Getting started with Invisalign is simple. Schedule an Orthodontic Consultation at Lakeside Smiles to discuss your smile goals. If Invisalign is the right choice for you, we'll create a custom treatment plan and guide you through each step of the process.

Many dental insurance plans offer coverage for Invisalign treatment, similar to traditional braces. Our team will work closely with you to understand your insurance benefits and provide you with accurate information about your coverage.

Invisalign offers numerous advantages, including nearly invisible appearance, comfortable fit, and the ability to remove the aligners for eating and oral hygiene. It's a convenient and discreet way to achieve a beautifully aligned smile without the challenges of traditional braces.

Dental implants work by fusing with the jawbone through a process called osseointegration. This integration provides stability and support for the replacement tooth or teeth, mimicking the function of natural tooth roots.

Most individuals with missing teeth are candidates for dental implants, but a comprehensive evaluation is needed. Factors such as bone density, overall health, and specific dental conditions will be considered to determine your candidacy..

The dental implant procedure involves:

• Consultation and treatment planning
• Implant placement
• Osseointegration
• Abutment placement
• Custom restoration

The cost of dental implants can vary based on factors such as the number of implants needed, the type of restoration, and any additional procedures required. During your initial consultation, our expert team will assess your individual needs and provide you with a personalized treatment plan, including a detailed breakdown of the associated costs.

Absolutely! At Lakeside Smiles, we understand that restoring your smile is an important decision. We offer flexible payment options to accommodate your budget and make the dental implant process more accessible. Our team will work closely with you to create a payment plan that suits your financial needs.

Discomfort during the dental implant procedure is minimal and manageable. Local anesthesia and sedation are used to ensure your comfort. Post-procedure discomfort is often similar to that of a tooth extraction. Our team will provide guidance on managing any mild discomfort.

The duration varies based on individual factors. While some cases may require several months for complete osseointegration, others may allow for immediate restoration. Our team will provide you with a tailored timeline during your consultation.

Caring for dental implants is similar to caring for natural teeth. Brush and floss regularly, maintain routine dental checkups, and follow our recommended oral hygiene practices to ensure the longevity and health of your implants.

Coverage varies depending on your insurance plan. Our team will work closely with you to understand your benefits and provide guidance on maximizing your coverage.

Yes, veneers are considered a permanent dental treatment because a portion of the original tooth enamel is removed to fit the veneer. Once this enamel is removed, it cannot be replaced, and the tooth will always need to be covered with a veneer or crown.

Porcelain veneers typically last between 10 to 15 years, and composite veneers last about 5 to 7 years, depending on the care and maintenance they receive. Good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups can help extend their lifespan.

Veneers do not require special care. You should continue to follow good oral hygiene practices, including brushing, flossing, and rinsing with an antiseptic mouthwash. Although veneers are stain-resistant, it's still a good idea to avoid excessive coffee, tea, or wine, which can cause staining over time.

Veneers are designed to look like your natural teeth. They are custom-made to the contour of your teeth and will match the color of your surrounding teeth. A skilled dentist ensures that they look natural and fit comfortably.

The process of getting veneers typically involves little to no discomfort. Local anesthesia can be used during the procedure to minimize any pain. After the procedure, there might be some sensitivity to temperature, which usually dissipates within a few days.

Once veneers are applied, they cannot be removed as part of the tooth enamel has been removed to accommodate them. However, they can be replaced if they are damaged or worn out.

The cost of veneers varies depending on several factors, including the type of veneer, the number of veneers needed, and the geographical location of the dental practice. It's best to discuss the cost with your dentist, who can provide a more accurate estimate based on your specific case.

Veneers are generally considered a cosmetic procedure and are not covered by dental insurance. However, it's always a good idea to check with your insurance provider for specific details about your coverage. We can also help you with your payment and financing options.

Teeth whitening is a cosmetic dental procedure aimed at removing stains and lightening the color of teeth. It works using bleaching agents, typically hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, which break down stain molecules on the tooth surface, resulting in a brighter and whiter appearance.

When performed by a dental professional or under their guidance, teeth whitening is a safe procedure. It's important to follow the dentist's instructions and use products as recommended to avoid gum irritation or damage to your enamel.

The longevity of teeth whitening results varies based on lifestyle and oral hygiene. On average, professional teeth whitening can last from six months to two years. Regular consumption of staining foods and drinks, smoking, and poor oral hygiene can shorten this duration.

Teeth whitening is most effective on extrinsic stains (stains on the surface of the teeth) caused by food, drink, and tobacco. Intrinsic stains (within the tooth structure) caused by medication, injury, or fluorosis might not respond as well to whitening.

Professional teeth whitening products are formulated to be safe for tooth enamel. Overuse or misuse of over-the-counter products can lead to enamel damage, which is why professional guidance is recommended.

Some people may experience temporary tooth sensitivity following a whitening treatment. This is usually short-lived and can be managed with products designed for sensitive teeth. Your dentist can provide specific recommendations based on your needs.

Whitening treatments do not affect the color of dental restorations such as fillings, crowns, or veneers. If you have these restorations, it's important to discuss teeth whitening with your dentist to ensure a uniform appearance.

To maintain your whitening results, practice good oral hygiene, avoid staining foods and beverages, and consider using a whitening toothpaste. Regular dental check-ups and cleanings can also help maintain your results.

Teeth whitening is suitable for most adults. However, it's not recommended for children under 16, pregnant or nursing women, and people with gum disease, worn enamel, cavities, or highly sensitive teeth. Consult with a dentist to determine if you're a good candidate.

The cost of professional teeth whitening varies based on the method used and geographical location. Discuss with your dentist for a specific cost estimate and to learn about payment options.

A dental emergency typically includes situations like severe toothaches, chipped or broken teeth, knocked-out teeth, lost fillings or crowns, abscesses or significant swelling, uncontrolled bleeding, and jaw injuries. Any dental issue causing severe pain, discomfort, or risk to your oral health should be considered an emergency.

For a severe toothache, rinse your mouth with warm water and use dental floss to gently remove any food particles. Avoid applying aspirin directly to the tooth or gums. If the pain persists, contact your dentist immediately.

Rinse your mouth and any broken pieces with warm water. If there’s bleeding, apply a piece of gauze to the area for about 10 minutes or until the bleeding stops. A cold compress can help reduce swelling and pain. Visit your dentist as soon as possible.

Handle the tooth by the crown, not the root. Rinse the tooth with water if it's dirty, but do not scrub it. If possible, try to reinsert the tooth in its socket. If that's not feasible, keep the tooth moist in milk and get to your dentist quickly.

Yes, a lost filling or crown can be considered an emergency as it can lead to further damage or infection. Keep the crown in a safe place and avoid chewing on the affected side. Contact your dentist to have it fixed as soon as possible.

An abscess is a serious infection that can spread to other parts of the body if left untreated. Rinse your mouth with mild saltwater several times a day to reduce pain and draw the pus toward the surface. See your dentist immediately.

For most dental emergencies, it’s best to contact your dentist first as they are equipped to handle a range of dental issues. However, if you have severe trauma, heavy bleeding, or injuries to your face or jaw, you should go to the emergency room.

In many dental emergencies, such as a knocked-out tooth or severe infection, time is critical. Contact your dentist immediately for advice and to arrange an urgent appointment. The sooner you get treatment, the better the chances of resolving the issue effectively.

Many dental insurance plans cover emergency services, but coverage can vary. Check your policy details or contact your insurance provider for specific information. Your dental office can also assist with insurance queries and offer alternative payment options if needed.

While not all dental emergencies can be prevented, maintaining good oral hygiene, wearing a mouthguard during sports, and avoiding chewing hard foods or objects can reduce the risk. Regular dental check-ups can also help identify and address issues before they become emergencies.