Frequently asked questions

Sensitivity usually comes from gum recession — when the gums pull back, the underlying dentin is exposed, and hot, cold, or acidic foods can reach the nerve more easily. Special toothpastes, gels, and a few in-office procedures can help. We'll figure out the right approach at your visit.

Most prevention happens at home — daily brushing and flossing, even when nothing feels wrong. Pair that with cleanings every six months and you'll dodge most gingivitis and cavity problems as you age.

Silver (amalgam) fillings are made from a metal alloy and have been used for decades — durable but visible. White (composite) fillings are made from tooth-colored resin that bonds directly to the tooth, matches your natural shade, and seals tightly against decay. We use white fillings for new and replacement work.

An early stage of gum disease — bacteria around the teeth get into the gums, causing irritation, inflammation, and bleeding. Reversible with proper cleaning and home care. Caught early, it doesn't progress.

Untreated gingivitis becomes periodontal disease — a chronic infection that gradually destroys the bone holding your teeth in place. Symptoms include bad breath, gum recession, gum sensitivity, abscesses, tooth pain, and eventually tooth loss.

Treatment depends on severity. Most cases are controlled with a combination of periodontal cleanings, scaling and root planing, laser therapy, and local antibiotics. Surgery is reserved for severe cases.

You're not alone, and we don't judge. The first visit is an exam, x-rays, and a clear plan — no pressure to do everything at once. We work through it at the pace that fits your budget and schedule.

Several options depending on what you'd like to change: tooth whitening (color), bonding (small chips and gaps), porcelain veneers (shape and alignment), or porcelain crowns (more comprehensive). At a consultation we walk through each and put together a plan that fits your goals and budget.

A safe, cost-effective way to brighten your smile. We offer take-home tray whitening (4–8 shades over a few days) and BriteSmile in-office (6–10 shades in about an hour). Results last a few years if maintained — staining drinks like coffee, tea, cola, and wine reduce the effect.

A quick cosmetic fix that uses tooth-colored composite resin to fill gaps in front teeth or change a tooth's color. Often done in a single visit. Like whitening, the color can change over time with coffee, tea, cola, or wine.

Thin pieces of porcelain bonded to the front of your teeth — they change the size, shape, and color in as few as two visits. Used for fractured teeth, age- or medication-related darkening, and crooked smiles. Many patients get veneers simply to feel and look younger.

A permanent cap that covers the entire tooth. Used both restoratively (when a tooth is too damaged for a filling) and cosmetically (to change size, shape, and color). Two visits.

A titanium screw placed under the gum into the jaw bone, acting as the root of a new tooth. After it fuses with the bone over a few months, an abutment and crown go on top. The result is a permanent replacement that looks and functions like a natural tooth.

With modern dentistry, most adults are candidates. Exceptions include chronic illness, heart disease, and severe osteoporosis. We review your medical history and bone health at the consultation.

Three to four visits over a few months. First: x-rays and impressions for a surgical guide and temporary. Then placement under local anesthesia (sedation only if needed). About three months later we begin placing the porcelain crown. Most patients describe placement as easier than a tooth extraction.

They look and function like natural teeth. They're permanent. They prevent the bone loss, gum recession, and tooth movement that follow tooth loss. Maintenance is regular hygiene visits — same as your real teeth. Unlike a bridge, only the missing tooth is involved — neighboring teeth aren't affected.

With proper home care and regular dental visits, an implant typically lasts 30 years to a lifetime.

Cost depends on how many you need, whether grafting is required, and your insurance coverage. We give you a clear written estimate at the consultation along with financing options.

Yes. We accept cash, check, MasterCard, and American Express, and we offer a 10% courtesy when paid in full on the day of service. We also partner with CareCredit for no-interest payment plans up to 12 months and low-interest plans up to 60 months. Treatment over $300 qualifies for 3 months no-interest, over $600 for 6 months, and over $1,000 for 12 months.

Most major plans, including Aetna, Cigna, Delta Dental, DenteMax, Florida Blue, Guardian, Humana, Principal, United Concordia, and United Healthcare. We'll verify your specific benefits before any work that isn't routine.