Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when it is time to come in for a checkup?
How do you look out for the safety of your patients?
My gums bleed after I brush. Is this something to be concerned about?
Crowns, veneers, onlays, inlays, and partials…Where can I learn more about these procedures?
Do you accept dental insurance?
What can you do to improve the appearance of my smile?
My teeth are stained. Can you help?
I avoid dental visits because of anxiety…is this normal? Can you help?
How does gum disease affect the body?
What payment methods do you accept, and what are your financing options?

How do I know when it is time to come in for a checkup?

We recommend that patients with good oral health schedule a checkup and hygiene visit twice each year. If you need more frequent visits, we'll let you know. Checkups are important because, even if you don't notice any pain or problems with your teeth, we may find signs of potential problems. For instance, demineralization is a precursor to decay, oral cancer often goes undetected until the later stages, and gum disease can be very stealthy. At your hygiene appointment, we'll clean plaque, tartar, and hardened food particles from your teeth. We'll also make sure your gums are healthy and strong.

How do you look out for the safety of your patients?

Very well, actually! In addition to following guidelines set by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration), we use disposable products as often as possible. Between each patient visit, we thoroughly clean treatment rooms and sterilize reusable instruments in an autoclave. Because we value safety, we have invested in a digital radiograph, which emits about 80% less radiation that a traditional X-ray machine. We also use intraoral cameras and photography for close-up images, which promotes accurate diagnoses. If you have questions about our safety and sterilization methods, call us. We'll answer your questions with enthusiasm because we love dentistry and our patients.

My gums bleed after I brush. Is this something to be concerned about?

Bleeding is usually a sign of a problem. When gums bleed, the cause usually stems from the patient brushing too hard or from early-stage gum disease, called gingivitis. We can consult with you on the proper toothbrush and pressure for safe, effective daily oral care. If your gums show signs of gum disease, we may recommend a deep hygiene treatment to stop the disease and return your gums to good health. Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss for American adults, and it has been linked to many overall health conditions, including stroke, heart attack, and respiratory problems. Untreated, gum disease can escalate to create significant damage to your health, so call for an assessment now. We will help you keep your teeth and gums healthy for life!

Crowns, veneers, onlays, inlays, and partials…Where can I learn more about these procedures?

Our patient resources is a great resource for learning about dental procedures. You can also review our services page for more information. If you have questions about these or other dental procedures, don't hesitate to call us. We would be happy to explain any aspect of your dental care or our service offerings.

Do you accept dental insurance?

We accept most PPOs, are providers for some plans, and file electronically as a courtesy. Please prepare to pay your copay or deductible at your visit. If you have questions about your insurance policy, please call our dental office in San Diego.

What can you do to improve the appearance of my smile?

Well, we'd like to start by evaluating your oral health, existing smile, and discussing your idea of a spectacular smile. We may suggest porcelain veneers, teeth whitening, replacement teeth, and replacing metal dental work with esthetic restorations. However, your smile may benefit from some artistic bonding and reshaping or Zoom! Whitening. Maybe Invisalign clear braces will give you the straight smile you've always wanted. Call to schedule a cosmetic consultation, and together, we'll determine the best road to your ideal smile.

My teeth are stained. Can you help?

Yes. We offer whitening solutions to brighten teeth dramatically at home or in our office. Call for an appointment today!

I avoid dental visits because of anxiety…is this normal? Can you help?

Many people fear dental visits because of negative past experiences or control issues. We understand dental anxiety and offer a solution to help you overcome your stress. With oral conscious sedation, we can help you gain full peace of mind and body so that you can receive the dental work you need – and deserve.

How does gum disease affect the body?

It hides in your mouth, destroying gum tissue and teeth, and it can lead to strokes, heart attacks, and pregnancy complications. Don’t think it’s your problem? Conservative estimates report that up to 80 percent of the population unknowingly has gum disease in some form. Learn more…

What payment methods do you accept, and what are your financing options?

Your checks, cash, and credit cards are welcome in our San Diego, CA dental office. If you would like to finance your dental work, please visit: CareCredit.