book a cleaning every 6 months to keep your smile bright!

FAQ

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Your Visit

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Dental Implants

What if I don’t get an implant?

If you’ve lost one or more teeth, it’s important to replace them as soon as you can. Missing teeth can impact your oral health as well as your overall physical well-being, causing problems biting, chewing, and eating properly. You also have a greater chance of developing gum disease, TMJ, crooked teeth, and other issues if you go without replacing your missing teeth.

How long do implants last?

Your artificial tooth (called a crown) will only last 10-15 years before it needs to be replaced due to normal wear and tear. The implant itself fuses to your jawbone and can provide a stable foundation for your replacement tooth for the rest of your life with good oral hygiene and at-home care.

Do implants hurt?

You will require a minor surgical procedure to place the implants in your jaw. Following your procedure, it’s normal to experience some pain and swelling while your mouth heals. Our team will provide you with detailed post-operative instructions and prescribed pain relievers (as needed) to help you manage any discomfort you may experience.

Are implants covered by insurance?

Many dental plans may cover a portion of your procedure. We will verify all benefits prior to treatment and help you make the most of your insurance coverage.

How much do dental implants cost?

The full cost of your implant procedure will depend on your overall treatment needs, such as the extent of restoration required to complete your smile. Our team will provide you with a complete breakdown of all costs and payment options during your consultation.

What are implants made out of?

Dental implants are made from titanium. We use this metal because it’s biocompatible, which means it fuses with the surrounding jawbone tissue. This can prevent or reverse the bone loss that happens when you lose one or more teeth.

ClearCorrect

How much does ClearCorrect cost?

ClearCorrect is a flexible treatment that can be tailored to your needs. Our team will perform a full assessment of your teeth so we can provide you with a complete breakdown of all treatment costs. That said, ClearCorrect is comparable to the cost of braces, making it affordable for most patients.

Is ClearCorrect covered by insurance?

The cost of ClearCorrect treatment is typically covered in part by most dental insurance plans. Your out-of-pocket expenses will depend on your plan and stated benefits. We’ll be sure to confirm your benefits to help you make the most of your coverage.

Can teens get ClearCorrect?

Yes, teens can benefit from ClearCorrect treatment. Many young patients may be candidates for clear aligners, so be sure to talk to our team about a ClearCorrect consultation for your teen or tween.

Does ClearCorrect hurt?

Most patients experience some discomfort or soreness when they begin wearing their new aligners. This usually passes in a few days, once the mouth adjusts to the new aligners. If you experience any pain or irritation while wearing your ClearCorrect aligners, be sure to call our office right away.

Veneers

What kind of veneers can I get?

We offer high-quality veneers made from porcelain or composite resin. Each material is chosen for its strength, durability, and lifelike appearance. We also offer Lumineers.

How long does it take to get veneers?

On average, you can expect the process of getting your veneers to take 3-4 weeks. You’ll visit our office 2-3 times during this time, from your initial consultation to the final fitting and application.

Do veneers hurt?

Generally, no. Patients who receive 2-4 veneers typically experience no discomfort. However, patients who receive eight or more veneers may experience some sensitivity or tenderness in the gums. Your dentist will take every precaution during your veneer preparation and administer local anesthetic or sedation as needed to ensure your comfort.

Do Lumineers hurt?

No, Lumineers are a non-invasive treatment option that requires no tooth preparation.

How long do veneers last?

The lifespan of your veneer depends on the type you choose, and your veneers will eventually need to be repaired or replaced just like any other dental work. Porcelain veneers typically last 10-15 years, while you can expect veneers made from composite resin will typically last 5-7 years. Lumineers can last up to 10 years.

Are veneers permanent?

Veneers are a permanent cosmetic procedure. They need a thin layer of enamel to be removed from your teeth prior to placement and are bonded to the remaining tooth structure. For this reason, only a trained dental professional can make repairs or adjustments to your veneers.

Dental Cleanings

Do dental cleanings hurt?

No, cleanings are handled by trained dental hygienists who gently yet thoroughly clean and floss your teeth. They are generally quite painless. Patients who have periodontal (gum) disease may experience some tenderness or bleeding. However, you can prevent discomfort by going to the dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings.

How often should I see the dentist?

How often should you have a teeth cleaning or checkup? It can depend on your overall oral health and wellness. However, the American Dental Association recommends visiting your trusted local dentist every six months. This helps our team diagnose problems as they arise and give prompt treatment recommendations to keep your oral health on track.

Are cleanings covered by insurance?

For most patients, basic preventive care such as checkups and cleanings is covered 100% by insurance. In-depth periodontal (“deep”) cleaning may be covered in part between 50%-80%, depending on your coverage. We will be sure to confirm your benefits and help you understand your insurance coverage to make the most of the coverage you’re owed.

Emergency

Is an emergency dental exam expensive?

The total cost of your treatment will depend on your case and unique needs. That said, we do everything we can to offer affordable dental care at transparent prices, including all emergency services. We also offer flexible financing options to help you cover all out-of-pocket expenses.

Can you see me today?

We do everything we can to see you! That’s why we offer same-day or next-day appointments to get you in as quickly as possible. Walk-ins are accepted as scheduling permits. We can’t guarantee appointment times, so be sure to call us in case of an accident or emergency.

Should I go to the ER for a dental emergency?

Dental emergencies can sometimes be frightening and we understand your first instinct may be to go to the hospital. But unless you’re experiencing severe symptoms of uncontrolled bleeding or swelling, you should contact your local dentist right away.

Cherokee Smiles Dental is here to make you smile.