A crown is a prosthetic treatment for a broken or badly decayed tooth. A “cap” is an older term and is now commonly used to refer to dental crowns.

With numbed nerves, you can expect not to feel any pain during your dental implant procedure. You may feel pressure at times, but it should not cause you discomfort. For patients who have anxiety with dental procedures, oral sedation is available.

Absolutely! We’re always excited to welcome new patients to Point Meadows Dentistry. Whether you’re new to Jacksonville or just looking for a more personal dental experience, our team is here to make your first visit comfortable and stress-free. We’ll take the time to get to know you and design care that fits your needs—not a corporate checklist.

In most cases, getting a dental crown is a two-visit process spread over 1 to 2 weeks. This timeline allows for the precise customization and fabrication of your permanent crown, ensuring the best possible fit, function, and appearance.

Visit 1: Tooth Preparation & Temporary Crown

During your first appointment at Point Meadows Dentistry, the tooth is:

• Numbed with local anesthesia for your comfort

• Carefully shaped to make room for the crown

• Impressions or digital scans are taken and sent to a dental lab

• A temporary crown is placed to protect the tooth while the permanent one is being created

This visit typically lasts 60 to 90 minutes, depending on the complexity of your case and whether you're receiving a crown on a front or back tooth.

Visit 2: Crown Placement

Once your custom crown is ready—usually within 1 to 2 weeks—you’ll return for your second appointment. At this visit, we will:

• Remove the temporary crown

• Check the fit, shape, and color of your new crown

• Make any needed adjustments

• Bond the permanent crown securely in place using a strong dental adhesive

This second visit is usually shorter, taking about 30 to 60 minutes.

Same-Day Crowns: Are They Available?

In some practices, same-day dental crowns can be created and placed in a single visit using advanced in-office milling technology (such as CEREC®). While this option is not currently available at all locations, we can discuss whether you’re a candidate for faster turnaround solutions or expedited lab processing.

What to Expect Between Visits

While wearing your temporary crown, it's important to:

• Avoid very hard or sticky foods

• Be gentle when flossing or brushing around the area

• Contact us if it becomes loose or uncomfortable

We’ll provide clear care instructions to ensure your tooth remains protected until your permanent crown is placed.

In most cases, yes—regular patients often have their exam and cleaning completed during the same visit for convenience. Your hygienist will perform a gentle, thorough cleaning either before or after your dentist’s evaluation, depending on your individualized schedule.

However, if this is your first visit with us, we typically begin with a comprehensive new patient exam rather than a cleaning. This allows your dentist to take digital X-rays, evaluate your teeth, gums, bite, and existing restorations, and discuss your goals before recommending the right type of cleaning for you.

Some patients may need a deeper level of cleaning or periodontal therapy rather than a standard hygiene visit, and identifying that first ensures you receive the most appropriate and effective care. Once your exam is complete, we’ll review your findings and schedule the right cleaning appointment to match your needs.

Contrary to popular belief, a root canal is not painful—in fact, it’s designed to relieve the intense pain caused by an infected or inflamed tooth.

With today’s advanced techniques, modern dental instruments, and highly effective local anesthesia, a root canal is often no more uncomfortable than getting a standard dental filling. Most patients are pleasantly surprised by how quick, smooth, and pain-free the experience is.

At Point Meadows Dentistry, we take extra steps to ensure your comfort every step of the way. Our gentle approach includes numbing the area thoroughly, explaining the process so you feel at ease, and checking in with you throughout treatment.

Once the procedure is complete, you may feel some mild soreness or sensitivity for a few days as your body heals—similar to what you might feel after any dental work. This can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers and goes away quickly.

In short, a root canal doesn’t cause pain—it stops it. If you’ve been putting off treatment out of fear, rest assured you’ll be in expert, compassionate hands with our team.

Why is a root canal better than an extraction? Whenever possible, preserving your natural tooth is the best option—and that’s exactly what a root canal is designed to do. While tooth extraction may seem like a quicker fix, it often leads to a longer, more expensive, and more complicated treatment journey.

With a root canal, we remove the infected tissue inside the tooth but leave the natural structure in place. This helps maintain your natural bite alignment, jawbone strength, and chewing function. Your tooth is then protected with a crown, restoring its strength and appearance—so you can continue eating, speaking, and smiling with confidence.

In contrast, a tooth extraction creates a gap in your smile and can lead to:

• Shifting teeth and misalignment

• Bone loss in the jaw where the tooth was removed

• Difficulty chewing certain foods

• The need for additional procedures like bridges, implants, or dentures

These replacement options can be more costly and time-consuming than the initial root canal itself.

Choosing a root canal allows you to keep your natural smile, avoid complex restorations, and maintain better long-term oral health. At Point Meadows Dentistry, we’ll always prioritize the most conservative, effective solution—and saving your natural tooth is almost always the best one.

Your first visit to Point Meadows Dentistry in Jacksonville, FL is all about getting to know you—not just your teeth. We take the time to listen, understand your goals, and make sure you feel completely comfortable from the moment you walk in.

You’ll start with a comprehensive exam, including digital X-rays and a gentle cleaning (if time allows). Your dentist will evaluate your teeth, gums, and overall oral health, discuss any concerns you may have, and create a personalized treatment plan that fits your needs and lifestyle.

Unlike corporate dental offices focused on volume, we believe in personalized, unrushed care. You’ll have one-on-one time with your dentist to ask questions, review findings, and explore options together—no pressure, no surprises, and no rushed visits.

Our goal is to make your first appointment informative, comfortable, and the start of a long-term relationship built on trust and communication.

A dental crown is a custom-made cap placed over a damaged or weakened tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. You may need a crown if your tooth is cracked, has a large filling, has undergone a root canal, or is severely worn down. Crowns also serve cosmetic purposes by covering discolored or misshapen teeth.

• Brushing your teeth twice a day, and using a fluoride toothpaste at least once.

• Flossing regularly to remove plaque from between teeth.

• Visiting Point Meadows Dentistry routinely for a check-up and professional cleaning.

• Quitting smoking.

The average life expectancy of a denture is seven to ten years. The denture itself is designed to last considerably longer than this, however the shape of your mouth/jawbone will change requiring new dentures.

So, is dental implant surgery worth all the trouble? Owing to their durability, appearance, and functionality, dental implants are probably the best option for missing teeth replacement, giving you a long-term option that can last for the rest of your life.

Yes! Point Meadows Dentistry is privately owned and operated right here in Jacksonville, FL. Our doctors, Dr. Hanna Mularkey and Dr. Sarah Danser, aren’t part of a corporate chain or large dental group. That means every decision—from scheduling to treatment recommendations—is made with our patients’ best interests in mind, not outside owners or production goals.

You can generally expect one or two appointments of about 90 minutes each. The first appointment is general to remove all infection from the root system of the tooth, and on the second visit the root canal is cleaned, disinfected, shaped, measured and filled to prevent any further infection.

Food collecting around teeth and implants is not uncommon. And unquestionably some areas collect more food than others; that has a lot to do with “local anatomy,” a fancy way of saying the local shape and position of the teeth relative to one another. The best way to know if this will be a problem for you is by talking to a memeber of our Point Meadows Dental team!

The disease is still reversible at this stage and can usually be eliminated by thorough brushing and flossing. In the more advanced stages of gum disease, called periodontitis, the gums and bone that support the teeth become seriously damaged beyond repair.

With proper care, dental crowns typically last between 10 to 15 years, and in many cases, they can last 20 years or more. Their longevity depends on several important factors, including the type of material used, your oral hygiene habits, and daily wear and tear.

Material matters:

• Porcelain crowns offer excellent aesthetics and are ideal for front teeth, but they may wear down faster in patients who grind their teeth.

• Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns offer a good balance of strength and appearance and are more resistant to cracking.

• Gold crowns are the most durable and can last decades, making them a great choice for back molars where function is more important than appearance.

Patient habits also play a key role. Crowns are incredibly strong, but they’re not indestructible. If you grind or clench your teeth (a condition known as bruxism), chew on ice or hard objects, or neglect regular dental care, your crown may wear out or become damaged more quickly. In these cases, we may recommend a custom nightguard to protect your teeth and crown while you sleep.

Good oral hygiene is essential for extending the life of your crown. Brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and scheduling regular dental cleanings help prevent decay at the base of the crown and keep surrounding teeth and gums healthy. Even though the crown itself is resistant to decay, the tooth underneath still requires care.

At Point Meadows Dentistry in Jacksonville, we’ll monitor your crown during each checkup to ensure it remains functional and esthetically pleasing. If any issues arise—such as wear, looseness, or damage—we’ll address them early to help you avoid more complex procedures.

Financial concerns should never outweigh your oral health needs, as delaying treatment could eventually result in more painful, extensive, and expensive problems. Point Meadows Dentistry is in-network with most major dental insurance plans and we accept almost all PPO plans.

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Aetna

Ameritas

Assurant

Florida Combined Life (Florida Blue)

Careington

Cigna

GEHA

Guardian

Lincoln

MetLife

Principal

Renaissance

United HealthCare

United Concordia

We proviide a dedicated team to help maximize the dental benefits available to you!

Not at all. Getting a dental crown is a routine procedure and is generally painless and very well-tolerated by patients. At Point Meadows Dentistry, we take every step to ensure your comfort from start to finish.

The crown procedure is performed under local anesthesia, which completely numbs the area being treated. You won’t feel any pain during the tooth preparation, impressions, or crown placement. Most patients report that the experience is no more uncomfortable than getting a filling.

After your appointment, it’s normal to feel mild sensitivity or soreness in the gums or surrounding tissue, especially around the temporary crown. This sensitivity typically resolves within a few days and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers if needed. Once your permanent crown is placed, any lingering sensitivity should quickly disappear.

For patients with dental anxiety or those who are especially nervous, we offer gentle techniques and a supportive environment to help you feel relaxed and at ease. We’ll also take the time to answer your questions and explain what to expect during each step of the process.

Our patients are often surprised by how comfortable and smooth the experience is—and even more pleased with how natural their crown looks and feels once complete. If you have concerns about discomfort or want to learn more about sedation options, just let our team know. We’re here to make your visit as easy and stress-free as possible.

Whether or not you've stayed a long time after having your teeth extracted is not a reason not to undergo dental implants. The question is really, do you have enough dental bone for the implant to anchor to. So it doesn't matter the number of years you've spent; 3, 5, 10 or any number of years past, the first step is x-rays with our Point Meadows Dental team to understand what you have going on under the gums!

Gingivitis: this is the earliest stage of gum disease, an inflammation of the gums caused by plaque buildup at the gumline.

Periodontitis: This is your final warning to take your treatment seriously. The supporting bone and tissue that keeps your teeth in place are irreversibly damaged. Your gums may begin to form a pocket below the gumline, which traps food and plaque causing more issues and possibly infections.

Advanced Periodontitis: This is the final stage of gum disease, the tissue and bone supporting your teeth are permanently destroyed, which can cause your teeth to shift or loosen.

There are a few indicators that your crown needs to replaced, here are a few common reasons:

• Your dental crown is old. Dental crowns can last for more than fifteen years before seeing any damage.

• Wear and tear

• Pain or swelling around the tooth

• Receding gum line

Most root canals are completed in one visit, usually lasting 60–90 minutes. Molars may take longer or require a follow-up visit.

As a general dentistry practice, we take care of most of the dental needs that arise on a day-to-day basis by supporting good oral health and wellness using preventive, restorative, and teeth replacement dentistry services. Dental exams, cleanings, x-rays, fillings, crowns, bridges, and dentures are all part of what we do here in our office.

We are also here to answer questions about your oral health and to educate patients on the importance of healthy teeth and gums.

In our office, we also offer cosmetic dentistry enhancements to improve the way you feel about the appearance of your smile. We can discuss this with you at your regular dental exam or we can schedule a cosmetic dentistry consultation.

Each patient is different. While we strive to provide most of the care you need here in our office, we want what is best for you and will refer you to treatment with a specialist when necessary.

Our goal is to help our patients maintain good overall health by promoting the health of their teeth and gums. We will let you know if we find any conditions that require treatment so that you and your dentist can discuss which options will work best for you.

A crown is a prosthetic treatment for a broken or badly decayed tooth. A “cap” is an older term and is now commonly used to refer to dental crowns.

Under ideal situations, a procedure called “gum contouring” around implant crown should be performed for every implant restoration. This procedure allows future gums around the implant crown to grow to size and shape similar to those gums around the natural teeth, thereby maximizing implant esthetics.

Yes, especially on back teeth. A crown protects your tooth and restores full function.

Yes, gum disease is an ailment of the gums, and is independent of the teeth.

Although it is unlikely that your dental implants will be rejected by your body, it is always good that you know the causes of dental implants failure. The most common causes why dental implants fail or get rejected by your body are allergies and genetics.

• Your dental crown is old. Dental crowns can last for more than fifteen years before seeing any damage.

• Wear and tear

• Pain or swelling around the tooth

• Receding gum line

Typically, six to eight weeks after the extractions. This allows sufficient time for the mouth to heal. We will re-examine your mouth to ensure enough time has passed prior to fitting your dentures.

We understand – paying for the full cost of a dental treatment all at once won’t be possible for many patients. In order to make this process stress-free and more affordable, our practice is happy to accept payment plans through CareCredit, LendingClub, and Compass Bank. This type of financing comes in a variety of lengths, and there is very little (or even none at all) interest attached to it. By being able to make small payments each month, our patients can finally achieve their desired smile without worry.

Delaying treatment for a tooth infection can have serious consequences. What starts as a simple cavity or localized inflammation can quickly progress into a painful abscess, causing swelling, fever, and pus buildup near the affected tooth. Left untreated, the infection can spread beyond the tooth root into the jawbone, leading to bone loss and weakening the surrounding structures that support your smile.

In more severe cases, the infection can enter the bloodstream and affect other parts of the body, leading to systemic health issues such as heart problems, sepsis, or complications in those with underlying medical conditions like diabetes or autoimmune disorders.

Early treatment through root canal therapy not only preserves your natural tooth and prevents further damage—it also protects your overall health. It’s far more cost-effective and less invasive to treat the problem early than to wait until extraction or surgical intervention becomes the only option.

If you're experiencing symptoms of infection, don't wait—prompt care can make all the difference.

Gum tissue doesn't regenerate the way other types of tissue does. As a result, receding gums don't grow back.

Once you are completely healed and have successfully adapted your oral hygiene regiment, most implants can be checked every six months with your bi-annual cleaning and check up. Of course, if any issues or concerns arise, contact your dentist to get advice on the best course of action.

Simply, sometimes crowns fall off. Most often the reason is from the decay of the underlying tooth or loosening of the cementing material used to place the crown. If your crown comes off, clean the crown and the front of the tooth. Contact Point Meadows Dentistry immediately, we will give you specific instructions on how to care for the tooth and crown for the day or so until you can be seen for an evaluation. We may be able to re-cement the crown in place; if not, a new crown will need to be made.

Most complete coverage dental insurance policies include some restorative coverage, typically up to 50% of the cost of dentures is covered. Co-pays and regular deductibles still apply.

We recommend visiting Point Meadows Dentistry every six months for a routine exam and professional cleaning. These regular visits help prevent decay, catch small issues early, and keep your smile bright and healthy. Some patients with specific conditions may benefit from more frequent cleanings—your dentist will recommend what’s best for you.

The cost of a dental procedure at Point Meadows Dentistry depends on several factors, including the type of treatment, the complexity of the procedure, and your individual needs. During your consultation and exam, Dr. Sarah Danser or Dr. Hanna Mularkey will evaluate your oral health and discuss any recommended treatments with you. Afterward, we’ll provide a detailed treatment plan that includes a cost estimate for each procedure.

We’re committed to cost transparency and understand that navigating dental costs can sometimes feel overwhelming. Dental insurance fee schedules vary by plan, meaning your insurance provider may set limits on the fees they’ll cover for specific procedures. If your insurance provider has an in-network agreement with Point Meadows Dentistry, you may see reduced out-of-pocket costs, as we have agreed upon discounted rates for certain procedures. However, if you’re out-of-network, there may be some differences in coverage.

Our experienced team will take the time to help you understand how your specific insurance plan applies to each recommended treatment. We’ll clarify details such as co-pays, deductibles, and any remaining costs after insurance. If you’re uninsured or need additional support, we offer flexible payment options and financing through trusted providers, like CareCredit and LendingClub, so you can proceed with treatment at a comfortable pace.

It is generally recommended to get a dental cleaning every six months. However, depending on your oral health needs, Dr. Danser at Point Meadows Dentistry in Jacksonville may recommend more frequent visits.

Yes, Point Meadows Dentistry provides emergency dental care to address urgent needs like severe tooth pain, broken teeth, and other dental emergencies. If you’re experiencing a dental emergency, please call our office as soon as possible at (904) 373-1187. We strive to accommodate emergency cases promptly to relieve pain and prevent further complications.

In most cases, yes—many dental insurance plans cover a portion of the cost of a dental crown, particularly when the procedure is considered medically necessary. This includes crowns placed to restore a tooth after a root canal, to repair a tooth with extensive decay, or to address structural damage such as cracks or fractures.

Coverage amounts can vary widely depending on:

• The insurance provider and your specific plan

• Whether the crown is being placed for restorative vs. cosmetic reasons

• The type of material used (e.g., porcelain vs. gold)

• Your plan’s annual maximums, deductibles, and co-pays

For example, if a crown is recommended to strengthen a weakened molar or protect a tooth after a root canal, most insurance plans will cover 50% to 80% of the cost, after your deductible is met. However, if the crown is requested purely for cosmetic improvement (such as enhancing the appearance of a stained or misshapen tooth), it may not be fully covered.

At Point Meadows Dentistry in Jacksonville, FL, our knowledgeable team is happy to verify your dental insurance benefits before treatment begins. We’ll provide a clear explanation of what your plan covers, what your estimated out-of-pocket cost will be, and help you navigate any paperwork or pre-approvals if needed.

We’re also proud to accept a wide range of insurance providers, including:

• Cigna

• MetLife

• UnitedHealthcare

• Florida Blue

• Guardian

• GEHA

• Humana

• Principal

• Sun Life

• And many others -- this list is also always changing, please call us for an up to date list.

No insurance? Don’t worry—we offer flexible payment options to help make your dental care more affordable. Our goal is to make your path to a healthier, stronger smile as simple and stress-free as possible.

If you have questions about your coverage or would like us to check your benefits, give us a call at (904) 373-4777—we’re here to help!

Gum tissue doesn't regenerate the way other types of tissue does. As a result, receding gums don't grow back.

During your dental exam, your dentist evaluates your teeth, gums, bite, and jaw to ensure everything is healthy and functioning properly. We’ll check for signs of decay, gum disease, oral cancer, and other conditions that may affect your smile. Digital X-rays may also be taken to detect issues that aren’t visible to the eye.

When you have dental implants, you can eat, chew, and talk just as you would with your natural teeth. Even eating foods like apples or corn on the cob will not dislodge or shift your new teeth.

Dental cleanings are essential for maintaining good oral health. They help remove plaque and tartar buildup, which can lead to cavities, gum disease, and other dental issues. At Point Meadows Dentistry in Jacksonville, our professional cleanings ensure your teeth and gums stay healthy.

The average life expectancy of a denture is seven to ten years. The denture itself is designed to last considerably longer than this, however the shape of your mouth/jawbone will change requiring new dentures.

Most exams take about 45 minutes to an hour, depending on whether X-rays or additional evaluations are needed. We value your time and make sure each visit is thorough yet comfortable—never rushed.

Your dentist will review an option of bone grafting with you.

Yes, regular dental cleanings can help prevent gum disease by removing plaque and tartar that cause gum inflammation. At Point Meadows Dentistry in Jacksonville, our cleanings are an essential part of maintaining healthy gums.

The most common reason for loose-fitting dentures is a process known as bone resorption, where the gums begin to shrink due to them no longer needing to hold your teeth in place followed by bone loose.

Yes, dental cleanings can help reduce bad breath by removing the bacteria, plaque, and tartar that cause it. Regular cleanings at Point Meadows Dentistry in Jacksonville can keep your breath fresh and your mouth healthy.

Most insurance plans do not cover cosmetic dental procedures. However, your insurance may cover a portion of the cost of a replacement tooth like the extraction. But typically the implant, crown and procedure are not covered.

Even if your teeth feel fine, small problems can develop without noticeable symptoms. Regular exams allow your dentist to catch issues early, when they’re easiest and least expensive to treat. Preventive care is key to avoiding bigger, more complicated dental concerns down the road.

Clear Aligners are used primarily for straightening, whereas veneers help with the cosmetic appearance of teeth. Clear Aligners are an alternative to braces whereas veneers are described as an alternative to false teeth because they are a capping system.

Most insurance plans cover orthodontic treatment, including Clear Aligners, up to a certain amount. To ensure that you get the most from your insurance plan, our staff will work closely with you to correctly submit the documents. We want you to pay as little out-of-pocket as possible so you can enjoy the benefits of Clear Aligners treatment on any budget.

The removal of many teeth at one time is quite different than the extraction of one or two teeth. Because the bone must be shaped and smoothed prior to the insertion of a denture.

Typically, six to eight weeks after the extractions. This allows sufficient time for the mouth to heal. We will re-examine your mouth to ensure enough time has passed prior to fitting your dentures.

In most cases, yes—regular patients often have their exam and cleaning completed during the same visit for convenience. Your hygienist will perform a gentle, thorough cleaning either before or after your dentist’s evaluation, depending on your individualized schedule.

However, if this is your first visit with us, we typically begin with a comprehensive new patient exam rather than a cleaning. This allows your dentist to take digital X-rays, evaluate your teeth, gums, bite, and existing restorations, and discuss your goals before recommending the right type of cleaning for you.

Some patients may need a deeper level of cleaning or periodontal therapy rather than a standard hygiene visit, and identifying that first ensures you receive the most appropriate and effective care. Once your exam is complete, we’ll review your findings and schedule the right cleaning appointment to match your needs.

A soft food diet is recommended for the first 2-7 days.

The Clear Aligners process is generally less painful than traditional metal braces, but patients often experience some degree of discomfort during treatment.

Most complete coverage dental insurance policies include some restorative coverage, typically up to 50% of the cost of dentures is covered. Co-pays and regular deductibles still apply.

This is case-by-case question, but, generally not anyone under the age of 16.

There is typically very little postoperative pain. Some patients say the sensation is similar to having a "pizza burn" in your mouth. Swishing with a mouthwash may protect the uncovered surgical area and improve the healing process.

The most common reason for loose-fitting dentures is a process known as bone resorption, where the gums begin to shrink due to them no longer needing to hold your teeth in place followed by bone loose.

Clear aligners can effectively treat many orthodontic issues, including crowded teeth, gaps, and mild to moderate bite problems. However, severe cases may require traditional braces. During your consultation at Point Meadows Dentistry in Jacksonville, we will assess your situation and recommend the best treatment option.

Immediately after the surgery and for a few days you will likely experience some soreness or discomfort. After all, this is a major dental procedure. However, most pain should be manageable and should not hold you back from normal daily activities.

You will need to visit Point Meadows Dentistry in Jacksonville every 6-8 weeks for check-ups to ensure your treatment is progressing as planned. These appointments are usually quick and help us monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments.

Dental Implants are a safe well-established treatment. Contemporary dental implants have been used for over 30 years.

A dry socket is a condition that may result after a tooth extraction if the blood clot is dislodged and lost. The dry socket leaves nerves exposed, which is very painful. This condition requires a dentist to clean the wound and places a special dressing into the socket.

To keep your aligners clean and clear, rinse them with lukewarm water and brush them gently with a soft toothbrush. Avoid using hot water, as it can warp the plastic. At Point Meadows Dentistry, we provide detailed care instructions to our Jacksonville patients to ensure their aligners stay in great condition.

Clear aligners may cause a slight lisp or change in speech initially, but this is usually temporary. Most patients at Point Meadows Dentistry in Jacksonville adjust to speaking with aligners within a few days.

Non-abrasive, tartar control toothpaste are best suited to care for the surface of the implant. Avoid toothpaste with baking soda, too much fluoride, and those designed for smokers.

The length of treatment varies depending on the complexity of your case. On average, treatment with clear aligners at Point Meadows Dentistry takes about 12 to 18 months. During your consultation in our Jacksonville office, we will provide a more accurate estimate based on your specific needs.

SureSmile® Clear Aligners use a series of custom-made plastic trays that gradually shift your teeth into alignment. Each set of aligners is worn for about two weeks, gently moving your teeth until your treatment is complete.

Yes. Clear aligners like SureSmile® are highly effective for treating mild to moderate cases of crowding, spacing, overbites, underbites, and crossbites. For more complex cases, your dentist will advise if additional treatment is needed.

Treatment time varies by case, but most patients complete their SureSmile® journey in 6 to 18 months, depending on the severity of alignment issues and how consistently aligners are worn.

Veneers generally last between 7 and 15 years, depending on material. After this time, the veneers would need to be replaced.

The cost of veneers is not typically covered by insurance. To be certain, check with your dental insurance company.

Yes, bondings and crowns are alternative options. Veneers may be the best option for individuals who want to change the color and shape of their teeth more than just a little bit, but not enough to require a crown.

Porcelain veneer does not damage your natural teeth by any means. In fact, it protects your natural teeth from further decaying as well as other damages. Fragile teeth can be dangerous, as they can be broken down anytime. With veneer, porcelain lamination is added around the teeth to give strength.

We offer some type of numbing for the first part of the veneer process. Once you are numb, you shouldn't feel any pain. Most patients who have two to four veneers experience little to no pain after the procedure. Patients who have eight or more veneers may feel some soreness in the gums and maybe the jaw.

Wisdom teeth are believed to be evolutionary and were at one time helpful to our distant ancestors who ate diets that consisted of rougher foods. As their teeth wore down or fell out, wisdom teeth provided back-up and replenished the worn out teeth!

Left untreated, the infection can spread to other areas of your body, resulting in a potentially life-threatening infection. In severe cases, the bacteria can travel toward the heart and settle in the heart lining, a heart valve, or a blood vessel. This can cause a condition known as Bacterial Endocarditis. Another severe outcome is Ludwig’s angina, a condition where the infection restricts one’s airways.

If you're having one tooth extracted, the entire process can be completed in 20-40 minutes. However, if you're having multiple teeth extracted, you should expect to spend a little more time in our office.

You won't need a sick note for this. You can drive immediately after the procedure, as long as only local anaesthetic was used.

An Abcess is a condition where a pocket of pus (caused by a bacterial infection) builds up around the tooth. Every year approximately 200,000 Americans suffer from the crippling pain from an infected tooth.

When performed by a dental professional, teeth whitening is an effective and safe way to brighten your smile. The most common side effect of whitening is temporary tooth sensitivity. In extreme cases the sensitivity can last up to a few days. It’s important to consult your dentist, to make sure you are a candidate for teeth whitening and to determine the appropriate course of treatment.

Veneers generally last between 7 and 15 years, depending on material. After this time, the veneers would need to be replaced.

The cost of veneers is not typically covered by insurance. To be certain, check with your dental insurance company.

Yes, bondings and crowns are alternative options. Veneers may be the best option for individuals who want to change the color and shape of their teeth more than just a little bit, but not enough to require a crown.

To avoid a hypersensitive reaction, we may recommend take-home bleaching trays with a lower concentration of carbamide peroxide – which is not as potent as hydrogen peroxide.

In-office bleaching is not a permanent solution. Like your teeth prior to the treatment, they will remain susceptible to stains. We will recommend you follow-up your treatment with a lower-percentage bleach in-home treatment that can be kept on the teeth for longer periods of time.

Wisdom teeth are believed to be evolutionary and were at one time helpful to our distant ancestors who ate diets that consisted of rougher foods. As their teeth wore down or fell out, wisdom teeth provided back-up and replenished the worn out teeth!

Left untreated, the infection can spread to other areas of your body, resulting in a potentially life-threatening infection. In severe cases, the bacteria can travel toward the heart and settle in the heart lining, a heart valve, or a blood vessel. This can cause a condition known as Bacterial Endocarditis. Another severe outcome is Ludwig’s angina, a condition where the infection restricts one’s airways.

If you're having one tooth extracted, the entire process can be completed in 20-40 minutes. However, if you're having multiple teeth extracted, you should expect to spend a little more time in our office.

You won't need a sick note for this. You can drive immediately after the procedure, as long as only local anaesthetic was used

An Abcess is a condition where a pocket of pus (caused by a bacterial infection) builds up around the tooth. Every year approximately 200,000 Americans suffer from the crippling pain from an infected tooth.

Most insurance plans do not cover cosmetic dental procedures. However, your insurance may cover a portion of the cost of a replacement tooth like the extraction. But typically the implant, crown and procedure are not covered.

Immediately after the surgery and for a few days you will likely experience some soreness or discomfort. After all, this is a major dental procedure. However, most pain should be manageable and should not hold you back from normal daily activities.

Dental Implants are a safe well-established treatment. Contemporary dental implants have been used for over 30 years.

There is typically very little postoperative pain. Some patients say the sensation is similar to having a "pizza burn" in your mouth. Swishing with a mouthwash may protect the uncovered surgical area and improve the healing process.

A soft food diet is recommended for the first 2-7 days.

The removal of many teeth at one time is quite different than the extraction of one or two teeth. Because the bone must be shaped and smoothed prior to the insertion of a denture.

A dry socket is a condition that may result after a tooth extraction if the blood clot is dislodged and lost. The dry socket leaves nerves exposed, which is very painful. This condition requires a dentist to clean the wound and places a special dressing into the socket.

While most people can expect some discomfort during and after a root canal procedure, excessive pain is not normal.

Between a root canal and a tooth extraction, a root canal is the preferred choice because it works on fixing your natural tooth. If a tooth is too far compromised, we may recommend an extraction, followed by a dental implant to replace what was lost.

You can generally expect one or two appointments of about 90 minutes each. The first appointment is general to remove all infection from the root system of the tooth, and on the second visit the root canal is cleaned, disinfected, shaped, measured and filled to prevent any further infection.