●FAQ

Dental implants are artificial tooth roots, typically made from titanium, that are surgically placed into the jawbone. They provide a stable foundation for replacement teeth, such as crowns, which are designed to look, feel, and function like natural teeth.

Most adults with good overall health and sufficient jawbone to support an implant can be candidates for dental implants. Factors like gum health, general health conditions, and lifestyle choices are also considered. A detailed assessment by a dentist is necessary to determine eligibility.

Most patients report that the discomfort is minimal and manageable. Local anesthesia and sedation are used during the procedure to minimize pain and provide comfort., Post-operative discomfort can typically be managed with over-the-counter pain relief medications.

With proper care and maintenance, dental implants can last a lifetime. The crown attached to the implant may need to be replaced due to wear and tear, typically after 10 to 15 years.

Dental implants should be cared for just like natural teeth. This includes daily brushing and flossing and regular dental checkups and cleanings.

Dental implants have a high success rate, generally above 95%. Success depends on factors like the patient's overall health, oral hygiene, and the skill of the dental professional performing the procedure.

The cost of dental implants can vary depending on several factors, including the number of implants needed and any additional procedures such as bone grafts. It's best to discuss the cost with your dentist during a consultation.

Coverage for dental implants varies by insurance plan. Some insurance plans may cover a portion of the cost, while others may not. It's important to check with your insurance provider for details on your coverage.

The healing process, known as osseointegration (where the implant fuses with the jawbone), can take several months. The total time from implant placement to final restoration can vary, but it typically takes a few months.

While rare, dental implants can fail due to factors like infection, insufficient bone support, or improper care. Smoking can also increase the risk of implant failure.

Invisalign is an orthodontic treatment that uses a series of clear, removable aligners to straighten teeth. Unlike traditional braces, these aligners are virtually invisible and can be taken out for eating, brushing, and flossing.

Invisalign aligners are custom-made using advanced 3-D computer imaging technology. They are designed to shift your teeth gradually into the desired position. Each set of aligners is worn for about two weeks before moving on to the next set in the series.

The duration of Invisalign treatment varies depending on the individual's needs. On average, it can take anywhere from 12 to 18 months, but you might start seeing results in a few weeks.

Yes, for most cases, Invisalign is as effective as traditional braces. It is suitable for treating a wide range of dental issues, including overcrowding, gaps, and certain bite problems.

Invisalign is suitable for most teenagers and adults. However, it may not be the best option for more complex orthodontic issues. A consultation with a certified Invisalign dentist is necessary to determine if it's right for you.

For optimal results, it is recommended to wear Invisalign aligners for 20 to 22 hours per day. They should only be removed for eating, drinking anything other than water, brushing, and flossing.

Clean your aligners regularly with Invisalign cleaning crystals or by brushing and rinsing them in lukewarm water. Avoid hot water as it can warp the plastic.

Some people might experience a slight lisp initially, but most adjust quickly to speaking with aligners within a few days.

The cost of Invisalign treatment is comparable to traditional braces but can vary based on individual needs and treatment duration. Consult with your dentist for a detailed quote.

Many dental insurance plans cover Invisalign treatment just as they would other orthodontic treatments like braces. Check with your insurance provider for specifics on coverage.

Veneers are thin shells of porcelain or composite material that are custom-made to fit over the front surface of your teeth. They are used to improve the appearance of your smile by correcting issues such as discoloration, chips, gaps, or misshapen teeth.

With proper care and maintenance, porcelain veneers can last between 10 to 15 years or longer. The longevity of veneers also depends on habits like biting on hard objects, grinding teeth, and overall dental hygiene.

Veneers are designed to look natural and blend seamlessly with your existing teeth. The color and shape are customized to match your natural teeth, making them virtually unnoticeable.

The veneer process is minimally invasive and usually not painful. Local anesthesia can be used during the preparation phase to ensure comfort. There may be some sensitivity after the procedure, but it typically subsides quickly.

Care for veneers just as you would your natural teeth: brush twice a day, floss daily, and visit your dentist regularly. Avoid using your teeth to open things and biting down on very hard foods to prevent damage.

Veneers are made from materials that are resistant to staining and cannot be whitened like natural teeth. It’s important to choose a shade that you will be happy with long-term when selecting your veneers.

Since the procedure involves removing a thin layer of enamel, it is generally not considered reversible. It’s important to discuss all aspects of the treatment with your dentist beforehand.

The cost of veneers varies depending on factors such as the number of veneers needed and the specific material used. Your dentist can provide you with a cost estimate based on your individual case.

Veneers are usually considered a cosmetic procedure and are not typically covered by dental insurance. However, it’s always best to check with your insurance provider for details.

While both veneers and crowns are types of dental restorations, they serve different purposes. Veneers cover only the front surface of the tooth and are primarily used for cosmetic improvements. Crowns encase the entire tooth, providing restoration for teeth that have been significantly damaged or decayed.

Teeth whitening is a cosmetic dental procedure aimed at lightening the natural color of your teeth without removing any of the tooth surfaces. It can remove stains and discoloration, resulting in a brighter, whiter smile.

Professional teeth whitening typically involves the application of a whitening gel containing a form of peroxide. This gel is applied to the teeth and works to break down stains, lightening the color of the teeth.

When performed by a professional dentist, teeth whitening is a safe procedure. At Amiable Dental Care, we ensure that the health of your teeth is our top priority during the whitening process.

The results of teeth whitening can last several months to a few years, but this varies depending on individual lifestyle factors like diet, oral hygiene, and tobacco use. Regular touch-up treatments can help maintain the whiteness.

Whitening works best on natural teeth and may not be effective on all types of discoloration. For example, yellow tones typically bleach well, but brown or gray tones may not respond as effectively. Veneers, crowns, and fillings do not respond to whitening.

No, teeth whitening does not damage tooth enamel. The whitening agents used in professional treatments are designed to be safe and effective without harming the enamel.

Some people may experience temporary tooth sensitivity during or after the whitening process. We take measures to minimize sensitivity and can recommend products to alleviate any discomfort.

The duration of the whitening process varies. In-office treatments typically take about an hour, while at-home treatments can take a few weeks to achieve the desired results.

The cost of professional teeth whitening varies depending on the method used and the extent of treatment required. It's best to consult with your dentist for a detailed cost estimate.

Teeth whitening is generally considered a cosmetic procedure and is not covered by dental insurance.

The American Dental Association recommends that you see your dentist at least twice a year for a checkup. However, some individuals might need more frequent visits due to specific dental health needs.

A dental checkup typically includes a thorough examination of your teeth, gums, and mouth for any signs of decay, gum disease, or other oral health issues. The dentist will also assess any existing dental work and may take X-rays. A professional cleaning to remove plaque and tartar is usually part of the checkup.

Regular checkups are crucial for maintaining oral health and early detection of potential problems. They help prevent the development of serious dental issues like tooth decay and gum disease and keep your smile healthy.

Yes, during a dental checkup, your dentist will examine your mouth for signs of oral cancer. Early detection is key to the successful treatment of oral cancer.

A standard dental checkup typically takes about 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the individual's oral health status and whether any additional procedures are needed.

Dental checkups are generally not painful. However, if you have sensitive teeth or gums, let your dentist know so they can take extra care during the examination and cleaning.

If your dentist identifies an issue, such as a cavity or gum disease, they will discuss treatment options with you. Early treatment can prevent more serious problems and preserve your oral health.

Absolutely. Children should start having dental checkups at an early age to ensure their teeth are developing correctly and to instill good oral hygiene habits. Pediatric dental visits are tailored to be kid-friendly and informative.

Dental X-rays are not required at every checkup. Your dentist will recommend X-rays based on your individual oral health needs and history.

Maintain a routine of brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, and eating a balanced diet. Avoiding tobacco and limiting sugary foods and drinks can also help keep your teeth and gums healthy.

A dental emergency typically includes situations like severe toothache, knocked-out or broken teeth, cuts or lacerations to the gums, cheeks, or lips, abscesses, swelling, and issues with braces or other dental appliances that cause significant pain or discomfort.

If you have a knocked-out tooth, try to handle it by the crown (top part) and gently rinse it without scrubbing. If possible, reinsert the tooth into the socket. If that’s not feasible, keep it moist in milk or a saline solution and seek dental care immediately.

Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen can help manage pain temporarily. However, it's important to see a dentist as soon as possible for proper diagnosis and treatment. Avoid using aspirin directly on the gums as this can cause tissue damage.

For most dental emergencies, it's best to visit a dentist who specializes in treating such conditions. However, if there is heavy bleeding, severe trauma, or if the emergency occurs outside of normal dental office hours and you cannot reach a dentist, visiting an emergency room is advisable.

Rinse your mouth with warm water and apply a cold compress to the outside of your face to reduce swelling. Save any broken tooth pieces in a clean container and contact your dentist immediately.

Rinse your mouth with warm water and gently floss to remove any trapped food particles. If pain persists, contact your dentist as soon as possible, as this could be a sign of a more serious issue.

Yes, a lost filling or crown can be a dental emergency as it can lead to pain or further damage to the tooth. Try to save the crown or filling and contact your dentist immediately.

A dental abscess is a serious infection that requires immediate treatment. Rinse your mouth with mild saltwater several times a day to reduce discomfort and swelling, but see a dentist as soon as possible.

Regular dental check-ups, good oral hygiene practices, wearing protective mouthguards during sports, and avoiding hard foods that can crack teeth are effective ways to prevent dental emergencies.

While some temporary measures can be taken at home to relieve discomfort, dental emergencies typically require professional treatment to address the underlying issue and prevent further complications.