General Dentistry FAQs
General dentistry focuses on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of common oral health issues. It includes services like cleanings, exams, fillings, and preventive care to maintain healthy teeth and gums.
Most patients should visit the dentist every six months for a check-up and professional cleaning. However, some people may need more frequent visits depending on their oral health.
A typical exam includes:
- Checking teeth and gums for signs of decay or disease
- Reviewing your medical and dental history
- Taking X-rays if needed
- Screening for oral cancer
Yes, dental X-rays are very safe. Modern digital X-rays use extremely low levels of radiation, and protective measures like lead aprons are used to minimize exposure.
A professional cleaning removes plaque and tartar buildup that brushing and flossing can’t eliminate. Regular cleanings help prevent cavities, gum disease, and bad breath.
Cavities are areas of tooth decay caused by bacteria. They are typically treated with fillings, which restore the tooth and prevent further damage.
Gum disease (periodontal disease) is an infection of the gums caused by plaque buildup. Early stages (gingivitis) can be reversed, but advanced stages may require more extensive treatment.
Good oral hygiene habits are key:
- Brush twice a day
- Floss daily
- Eat a balanced diet
- Visit your dentist regularly
Tooth sensitivity can be caused by worn enamel, gum recession, cavities, or exposed tooth roots. Your dentist can identify the cause and recommend treatment.
Contact your dentist immediately if you experience:
- Severe tooth pain
- A knocked-out or broken tooth
- Swelling or infection
Prompt care can help save your tooth and prevent complications.
Yes, fluoride strengthens tooth enamel and helps prevent cavities. It is commonly found in toothpaste, drinking water, and professional treatments.
While many treatments are similar, children often require specialized care focused on developing teeth, growth, and prevention. West Coast Dental has pediatric dentists, as well as general dentists and orthodontists who specialize in treating children.
Most patients should have a dental exam every six months. X-rays are typically taken once a year, but your dentist may recommend them more or less often depending on your oral health, age, and risk for cavities or gum disease.
No, dental X-rays are quick and painless. You may be asked to bite down on a small tab or sensor, which can feel slightly uncomfortable for a moment, but the process is very easy.
Yes, dental X-rays are very safe. They use extremely low levels of radiation, and modern digital X-rays reduce exposure even further. Protective measures like lead aprons are also used when needed.
Dental exams help detect problems early—often before you feel any symptoms. Your dentist can identify cavities, gum disease, oral cancer, and other issues in their earliest stages, making treatment easier and more affordable.
During a dental exam, your dentist will check your teeth, gums, bite, and overall oral health. This may include reviewing X-rays, screening for oral cancer, and discussing any concerns or treatment recommendations.
X-rays reveal areas beneath the surface, such as cavities between teeth, bone loss, impacted teeth, infections, and issues below the gumline—things that aren’t visible during a regular visual exam.
A dental exam can reveal more than just cavities and gum disease. Dentists may detect early signs of oral cancer, infections, bone loss, teeth grinding (bruxism), and issues with the jaw joint (TMJ). In some cases, symptoms in the mouth can also point to broader health conditions like diabetes, vitamin deficiencies, acid reflux, or even heart disease, making regular exams an important part of overall health care.
Most patients should get a professional dental cleaning every 6 months. However, your dentist may recommend more frequent visits if you have gum disease or other oral health concerns.
Dental cleanings are usually painless. You may feel slight pressure or sensitivity, especially if there is significant buildup or gum inflammation, but most patients find the process comfortable.
A typical dental cleaning appointment takes about 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the amount of plaque and tartar buildup and whether X-rays or an exam are included.
A regular cleaning focuses on removing plaque and tartar from above the gumline, while a deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) treats gum disease by cleaning below the gumline and smoothing tooth roots.
Yes, you can usually eat right after your cleaning. If you received a fluoride treatment, you may be asked to wait 30 minutes before eating or drinking.
Even with great home care, plaque can harden into tartar, which cannot be removed by brushing alone. Regular cleanings help prevent cavities, gum disease, and other oral health issues while keeping your smile looking its best.
Dental sealants are a plastic coating that your dentist applies to the molars in the back of the mouth. This coating hardens and offers a high level of protection from food and bacteria settling into the molars’ deep crevices. Although dental sealants do not guarantee no cavities will develop in treated teeth, the teeth coating offers the best protection from tooth decay.
Most people who get dental sealants find that they can last as long as a decade. However, it is worth noting that they provide the best protection in the first two to four years after application. Taking good care of your teeth by regular brushing and flossing will help ensure the dental sealants last as long as possible. Ultimately, dental sealants start to dissolve and will eventually need to be replaced.
Dental sealants for adults and kids are used to protect the teeth used for chewing from developing tooth decay. The dental sealant process is quick and painless. They are used to prevent cavities from forming.
The first step in the dental sealant process is roughening up the tooth’s surface to ensure the tooth’s sealant bonds correctly. Your dentist will use an acid solution to accomplish this. The tooth will be rinsed and dried before the sealant is painted onto the surface. It quickly bonds to the tooth, protecting against tooth decay formation. Your dentist may recommend that you avoid chewing on hard candy or popcorn the day of your treatment. However, by the next day, the dental sealants will be fully hardened, and you can return to your normal eating, drinking and oral care.
Dental sealants quickly bond to the treated teeth. Most dentists will recommend that you avoid hard foods for the rest of the day after getting the sealants to ensure they have a chance to harden. By the next day, you can eat, drink, brus, and floss normally.
Dental sealants are made of plastic and other materials. The plastic used for dental sealants does not contain BPA. This makes the sealants safe for both adults and children.
Dental sealants can be removed for a variety of reasons. One of the most common reasons for removal is if the sealant wasn’t applied properly and there is a gap or an opening between the plastic sealant and the surface of the tooth. This opening could allow food and other bacteria to get inside which could lead to the formation of cavities.
Teeth sealants are one of the most effective measures available for preventing tooth decay as they can prevent up to 80% of cavities. However, they are no substitute for good oral hygiene. If you have dental sealants, you still need to brush and floss regularly and visit your dentist for examinations and cleanings.
Dental sealants are safe for adults and children. The plastic used for the teeth coating does not contain BPA.
Dental sealants fall under the umbrella of preventive dentistry. Many insurance companies cover the costs because of this.
Most dentists recommend that you eat only soft foods after your dental sealant application to give the sealants plenty of time to harden. The day after you get your dental sealants, you can eat and drink as you normally would.
Dental sealants offer excellent cavity protection because they provide a barrier from food and bacteria settling into the tooth’s grooves. They do not guarantee cavity prevention. So, it’s crucial that you still practice good oral hygiene by brushing at least twice a day and flossing at least once.
In some cases, dental sealants can help with tooth sensitivity. You should talk to your dentist if you have sensitive teeth.
No. Once a tooth has a filling, there is no longer any benefit to having dental sealants.
Orthodontics FAQs
Orthodontics is a branch of dentistry that focuses on correcting misaligned teeth and jaws. Treatments help improve both the appearance of your smile and overall oral function.
Braces are used to straighten teeth, correct bite issues (such as overbite, underbite, and crossbite), and improve spacing problems like crowding or gaps.
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. However, treatment can be effective at any age.
No, orthodontic treatment is suitable for adults as well. Many adults choose options like clear aligners or ceramic braces for a more discreet appearance.
Treatment time varies depending on the complexity of the case but typically ranges from 12 to 24 months. Some cases may be shorter or longer.
Phase 1 (early interceptive treatment) is done in younger children to guide jaw growth and create space for permanent teeth, often reducing the need for more extensive treatment later.
Yes, orthodontics can help correct many jaw alignment issues. In severe cases, treatment may be combined with oral surgery for the best results.
Costs vary depending on the type of treatment and complexity. Many dental offices offer payment plans and accept insurance to make care more affordable.
Yes, retainers are essential to maintain your results. Without them, teeth can gradually shift back to their original positions.
Yes. Braces are a great option for teens and adults who want to improve alignment, bite function, and smile appearance. Some adults choose clear aligners such as Invisalign for the most discreet possible treatment.
It is best to avoid very sticky, hard, or crunchy foods such as caramel,
chewing ice, popcorn kernels, and hard candies because they can damage brackets or wires.
Most patients return every few weeks for progress checks and adjustments, though the exact schedule depends on the treatment plan.
Brush carefully around brackets and along the gumline, floss daily with
orthodontic tools if recommended, and keep up with regular dental cleanings and exams.
Most patients are advised to wear their retainer full-time initially, then transition to nighttime wear indefinitely to maintain results.
Teeth can gradually shift back toward their original position, potentially undoing your orthodontic treatment.
Use a soft toothbrush with mild soap or a retainer cleaner. Avoid toothpaste, which can be abrasive.
Removable retainers should be taken out before eating to prevent damage or staining.
Contact your dental provider as soon as possible for a replacement to prevent teeth from shifting.
Yes, over time retainers can wear out or lose their shape. Your dentist will recommend when it’s time for a new one.
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an evaluation by age 7 to detect early issues.
No. Some children can wait until all permanent teeth come in, but early evaluation ensures nothing is missed.
Typically 9–18 months, depending on the child’s needs and growth patterns.
Possibly. Phase 1 prepares the mouth, while Phase 2 focuses on final alignment and bite correction.
Most children experience only mild discomfort when appliances are first adjusted, which subsides quickly.
Common options include palatal expanders, space maintainers, partial braces, and habit-correcting devices.
Children's Dentistry FAQs
Use a small, soft-bristled toothbrush to clean your baby’s teeth at least once per day, preferably at bedtime.
Pediatric dentists, also called pedodontists, are specially trained to care for your child’s teeth and mouth. With an additional two to three years of training in children’s dentistry, pedodontists have the experience to safeguard your child’s dental health from infancy through adolescence. Pediatric dentists also help children feel at ease and enthusiastic about caring for their teeth at home.
Of course, baby teeth affect how your child talks, chews and smiles. Baby teeth also help pave the way for adult teeth to emerge through the gums.
To help minimize pain and discomfort, use warm water to rinse the inflamed area of your child’s mouth and give your child oral acetaminophen. Then, make an appointment with your child’s pediatric dentist as soon as possible.
These habits are likely only to cause a problem for your child’s teeth if they continue past age 3. If needed, your child’s pediatric dentist can recommend a mouth appliance or distasteful medicine to apply to the thumb to discourage thumb-sucking.
Don’t put your child to sleep while nursing or give them a bedtime bottle that contains anything other than water. Keep up with your child’s schedule of regular dental checkups and cleanings, and clean your child’s teeth properly.
Most children should have a dental checkup and cleaning every six months. Your child’s pediatric dentist will make a recommendation tailored to his or her individual dental needs.
Start using toothpaste to brush your baby’s teeth as soon as they come through the gums. Apply a tiny smear (about the size of a grain of rice) of fluoride toothpaste to the toothbrush to clean your baby’s teeth twice each day. Older children (between ages 3 and 6) can start using a pea-sized amount of toothpaste to brush teeth.
Promoting healthy food choices, especially fruits and vegetables, is one of the best things you can do for your child’s dental health. Limit sugars, starches and carbohydrates to prevent tooth decay. Beware of how long sticky, sugary foods are allowed to remain on your child’s teeth before saliva or the toothbrush washes them away.
Most children benefit from regular dental checkups every six months, unless the dentist recommends a different schedule. The existing page uses the same six-month routine as its baseline guidance.
A child’s exam typically includes a gentle check of the teeth and gums, evaluation of growth and development, and guidance for parents on home care and prevention.
Yes. Digital dental x-rays use very low radiation and are taken only when needed to support accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.
Some dental problems cannot be seen during a visual exam alone. X-rays can help detect cavities between teeth, monitor adult teeth developing under the gums, and identify issues early.
Children’s exams focus more on growth, tooth eruption, cavity prevention, bite development, and helping children feel comfortable. Adult exams often place greater emphasis on gum disease, wear, restorations, and oral cancer screening.
Speak positively about the dentist, keep the explanation simple, and let your child know the visit is meant to help keep their smile healthy and strong.
Most children benefit from a dental cleaning every six months, unless otherwise recommended. In some cases (known as “carries risk assessment”), cleanings may be recommended more frequently.
By their first birthday or when their first tooth appears.
Yes. Cleanings are gentle, routine, and designed specifically for children.
No. X-rays are only taken when needed to monitor oral health and development.
Typically between 30–60 minutes, depending on your child’s needs.
Keep it positive, use simple language, and let them know the dentist is there to help keep their smile healthy.
No. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, so your child should feel comfortable throughout.
Not exactly. A pulpotomy removes only part of the pulp, while a root canal removes all of it. Pulpotomies are typically done on baby teeth.
With proper care, the treated tooth can last until it naturally falls out.
Yes, in most cases a crown is placed to protect the tooth and restore strength.
The infection can worsen, potentially leading to pain, abscess, or the need for tooth extraction.
Yes. Pulpotomies are a safe, well-established procedure commonly performed in pediatric dentistry.
No. Some mild soreness may occur initially, but most children adjust quickly.
It depends on when the permanent tooth is ready to erupt. Your dentist will monitor and remove it at the right time.
Yes, but it’s best to avoid sticky, chewy, or hard foods that could damage the appliance.
Nearby teeth may shift into the empty space, potentially causing crowding or alignment problems that require orthodontic treatment later.
A dental exam and X-rays will help determine if a space maintainer is recommended.
Yes. Pediatric crowns are widely used and considered safe and effective for restoring damaged baby teeth.
The procedure is performed with local anesthesia to keep your child comfortable.
They typically last until the baby tooth naturally falls out.
Yes. The crown will come out along with the baby tooth when it’s time.
Cosmetic Dentistry FAQs
Cosmetic dentistry focuses on improving the appearance of your teeth, gums, and smile. Treatments are designed to enhance color, shape, size, alignment, and overall aesthetics.
- Teeth whitening
- Veneers
- Dental bonding
- Invisalign® or clear aligners
- Tooth contouring and reshaping
General dentistry focuses on oral health and prevention, while cosmetic dentistry emphasizes the appearance of your smile. Many treatments, like crowns or bonding, can serve both functional and cosmetic purposes.
Professional teeth whitening uses safe bleaching agents to break down stains and discoloration, resulting in a brighter smile—often in just one visit.
Veneers are thin, custom-made shells placed over the front of teeth. They are ideal for correcting discoloration, chips, gaps, and minor misalignment.
- Whitening: several months to a few years
- Bonding: 3–10 years
- Veneers: 10–15 years or longer with proper care
Yes, cosmetic procedures are safe when performed by a qualified dentist. Most treatments are minimally invasive and use proven techniques.
Most cosmetic procedures are comfortable and require little to no downtime. Some treatments may involve mild sensitivity, which is usually temporary.
Costs vary depending on the procedure, materials used, and complexity. West Coast Dental offers financing options to make treatments more affordable.
Most cosmetic procedures are not covered by insurance since they are elective. However, treatments that also improve function may be partially covered. Call us if you have any coverage questions.
Yes, treatments like dental bonding, veneers, and contouring can quickly restore the appearance of chipped, worn, or uneven teeth.
You should try to avoid rinsing, eating and drinking for at least 30 minutes after the treatment to give it time to absorb and seal. The longer you can wait, the more time it will have to work. If you do eat, try soft foods and avoid hot drinks and alcohol for at least six hours after the treatment.
With proper application and care, porcelain veneers can last 10 years or more. Durable porcelain will not stain or discolor like tooth enamel.
The cost of dental veneers varies based on the materials used, the number of veneers needed and the skills/experience of the dentist applying them. The average cost of porcelain veneers ranges from $800 to $2,500 per tooth.
In general, veneers are considered a cosmetic treatment while crowns are classified as protective. Crowns are attached to the teeth to help strengthen them if there are cracks, fractures or severe decay. They may also be used after a root canal or to support a dental bridge. Some types of crowns may help to improve the appearance of your smile.
To qualify for veneers, patients should have their full set of adult teeth and be at least 16 years of age.
No. Veneers should not cause these issues. If you experience dry mouth or foul-smelling breath, you may need to improve your dental hygiene habits or consult your dentist for help.
Porcelain veneers are considered a permanent feature in your mouth because your teeth are altered to accommodate them. Veneers can be removed and replaced, as needed.
You may experience sensitivity to hot and cold for the first few days following the application of your veneers. This is caused by the removal of the top layer of enamel to accommodate the veneers.
A custom mouth guard can help protect your veneers from damage caused by teeth grinding. If needed, your dentist can create a mouth guard using an impression of your mouth.
For the first few days following veneer placement, eat only soft foods. This allows your teeth to adjust to and bond with the veneers. Your dentist can make specific dietary recommendations that will continue to support healthy gums during this time.
Professional teeth whitening penetrates the microcracks in your teeth to remove deep stains from the layer below your enamel. This layer is also known as dentin.
Although many people use these terms interchangeably, there is a technical difference. Teeth whitening refers to restoring your teeth back to their natural color, whereas teeth bleaching services refers to the process of making your teeth whiter than their natural color.
Unlike medical insurance, dental insurance generally covers routine preventive care. Some policies offer a discount on services such as cosmetic teeth whitening. So, it’s best to contact your insurance company to find out the specifics of your plan.
When you come to us for the professional teeth whitening procedure, expect to spend an hour to an hour-and-a-half with us. We will need time to prepare your teeth for the whitening process. Then, we’ll need time for the teeth bleaching process itself.
If you have traditional braces with wires and brackets, we highly recommend that you wait until after your braces have been removed before undergoing the teeth whitening process. Teeth whitening while wearing braces can result in uneven whitening. However, if you have removable or lingual braces, teeth whitening can be quite effective.
Within 24 hours following your tooth extraction, you should notice a blood clot forming in the tooth socket which is part of the tooth extraction recovery process. After the clot forms, tissue should start to form over the wound. This tissue — which is made up of blood vessels, white blood cells, and collagen — is often a whitish color and is a positive sign of healing.
The teeth whitening process focuses primarily on the teeth that show when you smile. It does not work on porcelain or most cosmetic bonding materials including veneers, dentures, crowns or dental implants.
Most teeth staining is caused by lifestyle choices such as eating foods that cause staining, drinking beverages such as red wine, coffee and tea and smoking or chewing tobacco products. The aging process can also cause teeth to yellow over time.
The best time to whiten teeth is after you’ve had a professional teeth cleaning. Removing plaque and tartar buildup will help ensure you get the best results.
Most people are disappointed with the results after they try at-home teeth whitening kits. Often these whitening kits are used incorrectly or are not used often or long enough for there to be any noticeable result. Professional whitening services conducted by your dentist involves a gel that has a higher concentration of bleaching agent which can produce more dramatic results.
At West Coast Dental, we offer in-office dental whitening and at-home professional whitening kits. For patients who would like a quicker result, we recommend they come in for in-office dental whitening treatment. Patients will leave their appointment with whiter teeth than when they came in. Our at-home kits offer similar results, but patients will need to use their dental whitening trays over a period of days.
Stains on teeth are classified as either extrinsic or intrinsic. Extrinsic stains are those on the surface of your teeth, and this style of stain can often be removed with a whitening toothpaste or mouth rinse. Intrinsic stains are those that live deep in the tiny cracks of your enamel and deep within the layer below the enamel (dentin). With professional teeth whitening treatment, the whitening agent penetrates the tooth enamel to remove both types of stains.
Most of our patients do not report any sensitivity because we take steps to protect the soft tissues from coming into contact with the whitening agent. Over-the-counter whitening kits are well-known for causing sensitivity, and this is usually because they are not used properly.
Some types of dental bridge are known to be more durable than others. For example, composite, Maryland and cantilever bridges are all less secure than a traditional bridge which could last between 5 and 15 years depending on your oral hygiene practices. Implant-supported bridges are the most durable of all and could last several decades or more if your mouth remains healthy.
This really depends on your individual circumstances. Dental implants require sufficient healthy bone for them to be successful which is something that not everyone who has experienced tooth loss has. Implants offer greater stability and longevity. However, they are more expensive, and the procedure is much more invasive. Speak to your dentist who will help you to decide whether a dental bridge or dental implants are right for you.
The cost of a dental bridge procedure can vary depending on the type of bridge that you have chosen. Composite bridges are the least expensive, but they are also the least durable. Meanwhile, implant-supported bridges cost considerably more due to the invasive nature of the surgery to place them, but they are longer-lasting. Your oral surgeon will be able to give you a dental bridge cost estimate at your consultation.
A dental bridge works by filling the gap in your smile with a prosthetic tooth that is supported on either side by crowns that hold the structure in place. This restores the function and appearance of the teeth so that you can use them normally and feel confident in your smile.
A dental bridge is designed to look as much like your natural teeth as possible with each bridge being tailored to the requirements of each patient. Impressions help ensure that your bridge is the perfect shape and size to replace your missing teeth. It can also be glazed in a shade to match your existing teeth making your restoration extremely discreet.
Cleaning a dental bridge is extremely easy as it can be brushed and flossed just like your natural teeth. It’s important to use a soft bristled brush so that you don’t damage the bridge or irritate the gums. If you brush too hard, the gums could pull away from the teeth, receding and increasing your risk of developing gum disease. Cleaning your dental bridge is essential to keep it strong and looking healthy.
- Tooth sensitivity.
- Discomfort — as though your teeth don’t quite fit together properly.
- A foul taste in your mouth.
- Bite issues such as finding it harder to eat than usual.
- Your dental bridge moves when you touch it.
Most treatments are quick and comfortable, often requiring little to no anesthesia.
Bonding can last several years with proper care, though it may need occasional touch-ups.
Yes—modern materials are designed to match the color and translucency of natural teeth.
Your dentist may recommend a custom nightguard to protect your teeth and prevent future wear.
Specialty Dentistry FAQs
No. One of the benefits of choosing West Coast Dental is that you don’t need to be referred to an outside provider. If you require specialty care, our team can coordinate everything internally. If your insurance requires a prior authorization to cover specialty services, we will handle the authorization process for you.
A general dentist provides routine care like cleanings, exams, and basic treatments. Specialists complete additional years of training to focus on specific areas of dentistry, allowing them to manage more complex conditions and procedures.
Most specialty procedures are performed with modern techniques and anesthesia to ensure your comfort. Many treatments, such as root canals, are designed to relieve pain—not cause it.
Your general dentist will evaluate your oral health during your visit. If a condition requires advanced care, they will recommend treatment with one of our in-house specialists.
Not necessarily. In fact, having specialists in the same office often speeds up treatment, since consultations and procedures can be scheduled more efficiently without outside referrals.
Many dental insurance plans provide coverage for specialty procedures, depending on your benefits. Our team can help review your coverage and explain your options before treatment begins.
Yes. At West Coast Dental, your general dentist and specialists work together as one team, so you can enjoy continuity of care in one trusted location.
Getting a dental implant is a surgical procedure, and everyone’s pain tolerance level is different. Therefore, what one person may perceive as pain is only a slight discomfort for another person. The consensus about pain and dental implants is that the majority of people feel discomfort, not pain.
When properly maintained with adequate brushing and flossing, the implant itself can last a lifetime, assuming the patient receives regular dental checkups twice a year.
Yes, dental implants are safe. They have been used safely and successfully for more than 50 years with patients who are in generally good oral and overall health. Dental implants are typically made of titanium, a metal that is bio-compatible with the human body, meaning implant failure is very rare.
A traditional dental implant generally has a post diameter of 3 to 6 mm. A mini dental implant post is typically half the size of a traditional one. They are sometimes used when a patient doesn’t have enough bone density to support a full-size implant. Mini dental implants are made with a titanium post with a ball on the end of it, and a socket with a rubber ring that attaches the post and the tooth.
Like regular implants used in dental implant procedures, mini dental implant posts are made of titanium.
Yes. However, the only way a dental specialist would remove an implant is if it has failed, been damaged or not worked properly.
Yes. Individual insurance plans do reimburse portions of the dental implant procedure, but it’s very minimal. Our insurance specialists can help you determine your coverage and options.
According to CareCredit, dental implants can cost between $1,000–$3,000 per tooth.
Yes. Some alternatives to dental implants are fixed bridges and partial dentures.