FAQ

Most dental insurance plans cover two checkups and cleanings per year. Our team at Highland Family Dentistry can help you understand and maximize your insurance benefits.

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To prepare for a dental checkup, continue your regular oral hygiene routine, including brushing and flossing. It's also helpful to make a list of any questions or concerns you may have, as well as any medications you are currently taking.

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Dental X-rays are a safe and essential part of your dental checkup. They help Dr. Bahrami detect issues that are not visible during a regular exam. At Highland Family Dentistry, we use the latest digital X-ray technology, which minimizes radiation exposure.

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Yes, dental checkups can have a significant impact on your overall health. Poor oral health has been linked to several systemic health issues, including heart disease, diabetes, and stroke. Regular dental checkups help maintain not only oral health but also contribute to your overall well-being.

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If you experience any of the following symptoms, it’s important to schedule a dental checkup as soon as possible: severe toothache, swollen or bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, loose teeth, or discomfort when chewing.

Regular dental checkups are crucial for maintaining good oral health. They allow for early detection of potential problems, such as cavities, gum disease, and even oral cancer, ensuring timely treatment. They also provide an opportunity for professional cleaning, which is essential for preventing tooth decay and gum disease.

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Most dentists, including Dr. Bahrami, recommend having a dental checkup every six months. However, some individuals may need more frequent visits depending on their specific dental health needs.

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A dental checkup at Highland Family Dentistry typically includes a thorough cleaning to remove plaque and tartar, a detailed examination of your teeth and gums, and digital X-rays if necessary. Our checkups are comprehensive, focusing on both your oral health and overall well-being.

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Typically, it takes two visits to complete a crown or bridge procedure. The first visit involves preparing the teeth and taking impressions, and the second visit is for placing the final restoration.

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Many dental insurance plans provide coverage for crowns and bridges. Our staff at Highland Family Dentistry will work with you to understand and maximize your benefits. We also offer various financing options to fit your budget.

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Caring for crowns and bridges is similar to caring for your natural teeth. This includes regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups. It's also important to avoid chewing hard foods or objects that could damage your restoration.

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At Highland Family Dentistry, patient comfort is a top priority. The procedures for placing crowns and bridges are performed with local anesthesia to minimize discomfort. Our team ensures that each step of the process is as comfortable and stress-free as possible.

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Modern crowns and bridges are designed to look like your natural teeth. Dr. Bahrami takes great care to match the color and shape of your restoration to your natural teeth, ensuring a seamless and aesthetic appearance.

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With proper care, including good oral hygiene and regular dental checkups, crowns and bridges can last many years. On average, they can last anywhere from 5 to 15 years or more.

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Crowns are often recommended for teeth that are broken, worn down, or have undergone significant decay or a root canal procedure. Bridges are used to replace one or more missing teeth, preventing the remaining teeth from shifting and leading to other dental problems.

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To get started with Invisalign, schedule a consultation with Dr. Azita Bahrami at Highland Family Dentistry. During the consultation, we will assess your dental needs, discuss your treatment goals, and determine if Invisalign is the right option for you.

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Many dental insurance plans that cover orthodontic treatment also cover Invisalign. Our team at Highland Family Dentistry can help you understand your insurance benefits and explore various financing options to make your treatment more affordable.

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To care for your Invisalign aligners, rinse them under lukewarm water and gently brush them with a soft toothbrush. Avoid using hot water, as it can warp the plastic. It's also important to maintain good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly.

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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.

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Invisalign is effective for treating a wide range of orthodontic issues, including crowded teeth, gaps, overbite, underbite, and crossbite. However, some complex dental issues may require alternative treatments. Dr. Bahrami can assess your specific needs and advise whether Invisalign is suitable for you.

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Invisalign aligners are generally considered more comfortable than traditional braces. You may experience some mild discomfort or pressure when you start wearing a new set of aligners, but this typically subsides within a few days.

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The duration of Invisalign treatment varies depending on the individual's dental needs. On average, treatment can take anywhere from 6 to 18 months, but Dr. Bahrami will provide you with a more accurate timeline during your consultation.

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Invisalign is an orthodontic treatment that uses a series of clear, custom-made, removable aligners to gradually straighten your teeth. These aligners are designed based on 3D scans of your mouth and are changed every one to two weeks to shift your teeth into the desired position.

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The cost of veneers varies based on the type of veneer and the number of teeth being treated. At Highland Family Dentistry, we provide a detailed cost estimate during your consultation and discuss financing options to fit your budget.

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Veneers should be cared for just like your natural teeth. This includes regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups. While veneers are durable, it's best to avoid using your teeth to open packages or bite hard objects to prevent damage.

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The process of getting veneers is usually not painful. Local anesthesia can be used during the preparation phase for porcelain veneers to ensure comfort. Composite veneers typically involve minimal discomfort since they require less tooth alteration.

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Porcelain veneers are highly resistant to staining due to their non-porous nature. Composite veneers are slightly more prone to staining but can still maintain their color with proper care and regular professional cleanings.

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Yes, veneers are considered a permanent cosmetic dental solution because they involve altering the natural tooth structure. Porcelain veneers, in particular, require the removal of a small amount of enamel.

The lifespan of veneers depends on the type and how well they are cared for. Porcelain veneers can last up to 10-15 years or longer, while composite veneers generally last around 5-7 years. Proper oral hygiene and regular dental checkups can extend their longevity.

Veneers are thin, custom-made shells designed to cover the front surface of your teeth. They are used to improve the appearance of your smile by addressing various cosmetic concerns like stains, chips, gaps, or misshapen teeth.

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The cost of dentures and partials varies depending on your specific needs and the materials used. At Highland Family Dentistry, we provide a detailed cost breakdown and discuss financing options to ensure affordability.

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Initially, you may notice some changes in your speech, but this is typically temporary. As you become accustomed to your dentures or partials, your speech will improve. Practice reading aloud and speaking to get used to them faster.

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Yes, you can enjoy most of your favorite foods with dentures or partials. It may take some time to adjust, but gradually you'll be able to eat comfortably. It's advised to start with soft foods and avoid very hard or sticky foods.

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With proper care, dentures and partials can last several years. However, your mouth may change over time, requiring adjustments or replacements. Regular checkups with Dr. Bahrami will ensure they remain comfortable and functional.

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Caring for your dentures or partials involves regular cleaning to remove food and plaque. It's important to brush them daily, soak them overnight in a cleaning solution, and handle them with care. Regular dental checkups are also important to assess fit and function.

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Modern dentures and partials are designed for comfort and functionality. While they may require some getting used to, they are made to fit securely in your mouth. We ensure a precise fit to minimize discomfort and adjust as needed for optimal comfort.

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Dentures or partials may be the right choice for you if you have lost several or all of your teeth due to decay, injury, or gum disease. They help improve your ability to eat and speak and maintain your facial structure. Dr. Bahrami can assess your dental needs and recommend the best option for you.

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Dentures are removable prosthetic devices designed to replace missing teeth and restore your smile. Full dentures are used when all the teeth are missing, while partial dentures are used when some natural teeth remain. Both are custom-made to fit your mouth and match your natural teeth.

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To maintain your whitened teeth, avoid stain-causing foods and beverages, use a straw when drinking colored liquids, quit smoking, and maintain good oral hygiene. Regular dental checkups and cleanings are also essential.

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Some people may experience temporary sensitivity after teeth whitening, but this typically subsides within a few days. We use techniques and products designed to minimize sensitivity.

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Most adults can benefit from teeth whitening, but it's not suitable for everyone. It’s not recommended for children, pregnant women, or individuals with gum disease, worn enamel, cavities, or extremely sensitive teeth. Dr. Bahrami will evaluate your suitability for the procedure during your consultation.

Teeth whitening is most effective on extrinsic stains (stains on the surface of the teeth) caused by foods, beverages, and tobacco. Intrinsic stains (within the tooth structure) may require other cosmetic treatments for improvement.

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The duration of teeth whitening results can vary depending on individual habits and oral hygiene. On average, the effects can last from several months to a few years. To maintain results, it’s important to avoid stain-causing foods and beverages and follow good oral hygiene practices.

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Yes, when conducted by a professional dentist like Dr. Azita Bahrami, teeth whitening is a safe procedure. We take precautions to protect your gums and minimize tooth sensitivity, ensuring a comfortable experience.

Professional whitening at Highland Family Dentistry offers stronger whitening agents than over-the-counter products, providing more noticeable and long-lasting results. Additionally, the treatment is customized to your specific needs and monitored for safety and effectiveness.

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Professional teeth whitening is a cosmetic dental procedure that aims to remove stains and lighten the color of your teeth. Unlike over-the-counter products, professional whitening is conducted under the supervision of a dentist, ensuring safety and effectiveness.

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While not all dental emergencies can be prevented, maintaining good oral hygiene, wearing a mouthguard during sports, and avoiding chewing on hard objects can help reduce the risk. Regular dental checkups also play a crucial role in preventing problems before they escalate into emergencies.

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At Highland Family Dentistry, we prioritize dental emergencies and strive to see patients as soon as possible. We understand the importance of prompt treatment and will do our best to accommodate you quickly.

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The cost of emergency dental care can vary depending on the severity of the condition and the required treatment. At Highland Family Dentistry, we offer a $99 emergency exam to help make urgent dental care more accessible. We also work with most insurance plans and offer various payment options.

If you lose a filling or crown, keep the crown or filling if you can find it and avoid chewing on the affected side of your mouth. Contact us as soon as possible to address the issue and prevent further damage.

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For a chipped or broken tooth, rinse your mouth with warm water and apply a cold compress to the face to reduce swelling. Collect any broken tooth fragments and bring them with you to your emergency dental appointment.

Yes, a knocked-out tooth can sometimes be saved if you act quickly. Gently rinse the tooth without scrubbing it and try to reinsert it into the socket. If that's not possible, keep the tooth moist by placing it in milk or a saline solution and seek immediate dental care.

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If you're experiencing a severe toothache, rinse your mouth with warm water, gently use dental floss to remove any food caught between your teeth, and avoid putting aspirin on the aching tooth or gums. Contact Highland Family Dentistry immediately to schedule an emergency appointment.

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A dental emergency is any situation involving your teeth or gums that requires immediate attention to alleviate severe pain, reduce the risk of infection, or prevent further dental damage. Common emergencies include severe toothache, chipped or broken teeth, knocked-out teeth, lost fillings or crowns, and abscesses or infections.

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