You’re always welcome to call our office directly with any questions or concerns you may have, but sometimes it’s nice to get answers without having to dial a number! We get these questions a lot, so there’s a good chance the information you’re looking for is in this list. Feel free to scroll through and explore our website.
How do I get emergency dental care?
More often than not, the best way to get emergency dental care is to contact a dentist who can address your issue quickly. Our office, for example, is open every day of the week. When you call with an urgent dental disaster, we’ll help you schedule the earliest available appointment and can provide first-aid guidance over the phone.
There are some situations where the best solution is to go to the nearest ER. We’re well-equipped to handle most dental emergencies, but if you have oral bleeding that lasts for more than 10-minutes or symptoms of infection, visit the ER immediately!
Does dental insurance cover cosmetic dentistry?
Unfortunately, most dental insurance policies do not cover cosmetic dentistry. Many of these types of treatments are considered to be “elective.” If you need help affording your smile transformation, please let us know! Our In-House Savings Plan and CareCredit financing could still help you save money.
How long will my child have to wear braces or clear aligners?
Ultimately, it will depend on the extent of their dental or bite misalignment. If they have a severe case, it may take longer than average to meet treatment goals. Rest assured, once we get a closer look at your child’s mouth, we’ll provide you with a more accurate timeline.
You should know that generally speaking, Invisalign tends to straighten teeth faster than traditional braces. The average timeline for Invisalign is about 12 months, while the average for braces is 18.
Should my child’s wisdom teeth be removed before or after orthodontic treatment?
In many cases, it’s better to remove troublesome wisdom teeth before getting braces. These third molars are notorious for causing orthodontic issues like overcrowding, and if they become trapped below the gumline, they’ll need to be extracted as soon as possible. It wouldn’t be ideal to have your kiddo’s teeth straightened just for their wisdom teeth to come along and push them out of alignment again!
That said, everyone’s oral situation is unique. After a thorough exam, your pediatric dentist in Mesquite will let you know what the best course of action is for your child.
How often should I visit the dentist?
Experts agree – you should visit the dentist every six months for a routine checkup and cleaning! These appointments have been shown to significantly reduce the risk of oral complications like cavities and gum disease. Plus, keeping a close eye on the condition of your smile makes it easier to catch potential problems before they become more advanced and more difficult to treat.