FAQ

Absolutely. If you're experiencing any pain or discomfort, we encourage you to schedule a checkup as soon as possible. We offer emergency appointments to address urgent concerns.

It's never too late to start taking care of your oral health. At Cresta Bella Dental & Braces, we provide judgment-free care, regardless of how long it's been since your last visit. We're here to help you get back on track with your dental health.

Most dental insurance plans cover routine checkups and cleanings. We recommend checking with your provider for specific coverage details. Our office accepts a wide range of insurance plans for your convenience.

A typical dental checkup at Cresta Bella Dental & Braces takes about an hour. This includes time for cleaning, examination, and discussing any concerns or questions you might have.

Regular dental checkups are important because they:

• Help catch dental problems early when they're easier to treat.
• Prevent the development of cavities and gum disease.
• Keep your teeth and gums healthy and strong.
• Contribute to your overall well-being.

Most patients find dental checkups to be pain-free. Our skilled team uses gentle techniques to ensure your comfort, and we can discuss sedation options if you have dental anxiety or sensitivity.

It's generally recommended to have a dental checkup every six months. However, some patients may need more frequent visits depending on their oral health needs.

During a dental checkup, our team will:

• Examine your teeth and gums for any signs of decay, gum disease, or other oral health issues.
• Perform a professional cleaning to remove plaque and tartar build-up.
• Provide an oral cancer screening as part of the routine check.
• Discuss your oral hygiene habits and offer advice on improving your at-home care.

Dental crown coverage varies depending on your insurance plan. We recommend checking with your provider for specific details. Our office is happy to assist with any insurance inquiries.

Typically, getting a dental crown requires two visits. The first visit involves preparing the tooth and taking impressions, while the second visit is for placing the permanent crown.

Absolutely! We use the latest technology and high-quality materials to ensure that your crown matches the color, shape, and size of your natural teeth for a seamless and aesthetic appearance.

Yes, a tooth with a crown can still get a cavity at the gum line or beneath the crown. It's crucial to maintain good oral hygiene and visit your dentist regularly to prevent decay.

Caring for a dental crown involves the same good oral hygiene practices as your natural teeth. This includes regular brushing and flossing, avoiding hard foods that can damage the crown, and visiting the dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings.

No, getting a crown is generally not painful. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, so the area around the tooth is numb. You might experience some sensitivity or discomfort after the procedure, but this is usually temporary.

With proper care and maintenance, a dental crown can last between 5 to 15 years or even longer. The lifespan depends on the material used and your oral hygiene practices.

A dental crown is a custom-made cap placed over a tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. Crowns are needed for various reasons, such as protecting a weak tooth from breaking, restoring a broken tooth, covering a tooth with a large filling, or enhancing cosmetic appearance.

Our dentists are among the top 1% of Invisalign® providers in the U.S., and we are committed to delivering personalized, high-quality care. We provide a friendly, judgment-free environment, making your journey to a perfect smile as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.

The cost of Invisalign® varies depending on the complexity of your case and the length of treatment. We offer flexible payment plans to make Invisalign® affordable for everyone. Contact us for a consultation and a personalized quote.

For optimal results, Invisalign® aligners should be worn for 20 to 22 hours per day. They should only be removed for eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing.

Some people may notice a slight lisp when they first start wearing Invisalign® aligners. However, this is typically temporary and fades as you become accustomed to the aligners.

Caring for your Invisalign® aligners involves rinsing them in lukewarm water and cleaning them with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Avoid using hot water as it can warp the plastic.

One of the great benefits of Invisalign® is that the aligners are removable. You should remove them while eating and drinking anything other than water to prevent staining and damage to the aligners.

Invisalign® aligners are generally more comfortable than traditional braces. You may experience some pressure and mild discomfort when you start wearing a new set of aligners, but this typically subsides quickly.

The duration of Invisalign® treatment varies depending on the complexity of the case. On average, treatment can take anywhere from 12 to 18 months. We can provide a more accurate timeline during your initial consultation.

Most people seeking teeth straightening are good candidates for Invisalign®. It's effective for treating a variety of dental issues including gaps, overcrowding, and bite problems. However, the best way to determine your suitability is through a consultation with our Invisalign® specialists.

Invisalign® is a modern teeth-straightening method using a series of custom-made, clear plastic aligners. These aligners are designed to gradually shift your teeth into their desired position. Each set of aligners is worn for about two weeks before moving on to the next set in the series.

Dental insurance typically does not cover cosmetic procedures like veneers. However, we recommend checking with your insurance provider for specific details. Our office can also provide guidance on financing options.

The cost of porcelain veneers varies based on several factors, including the number of veneers and specific treatment details. At Cresta Bella Dental & Braces, we discuss all costs upfront and offer financing options to make the treatment more accessible.

Veneers can be used to mask minor misalignments, gaps, or unevenness in your teeth, giving the appearance of a straighter smile. However, they are not a substitute for orthodontic treatment in cases of significant misalignment.

Caring for veneers is similar to caring for your natural teeth. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups are essential. It's also important to avoid habits that can damage the veneers, such as biting nails or chewing on hard objects.

The process of getting veneers is generally not painful. Local anesthesia can be used during the preparation phase to ensure comfort. Most patients experience little to no discomfort during and after the procedure.

Absolutely! One of the key benefits of porcelain veneers is their ability to closely mimic the appearance of natural tooth enamel, both in color and texture. This ensures that your veneers blend seamlessly with your natural teeth.

Yes, veneers are considered a permanent cosmetic procedure. This is because a small amount of enamel is removed from your natural teeth to fit the veneers properly.

With proper care, porcelain veneers can last for 10 to 15 years, or even longer. The longevity of veneers depends on good oral hygiene practices and avoiding habits that could damage them, like biting on hard objects or teeth grinding.

Porcelain veneers are thin, custom-made shells of tooth-colored materials designed to cover the front surface of teeth. They are used to improve the appearance of your smile by altering the color, shape, size, or length of the teeth.

Dental implant coverage depends on your specific insurance plan. Some plans may cover a portion of the treatment, while others may not. Our office can assist you in understanding your insurance benefits.

Yes, dental implants are designed to look, feel, and function like natural teeth. They provide a strong and stable foundation for replacement teeth, enhancing both the aesthetics and functionality of your smile.

The dental implant process involves several steps, including implant placement, healing, and restoration. The total time can vary from a few months to over a year, depending on individual healing and treatment plans.

The cost of dental implants varies depending on several factors, including the number of implants and the complexity of the case. At Cresta Bella Dental & Braces, we offer flexible financing options to make dental implants more accessible.

Most people who are healthy enough to undergo routine dental extractions or oral surgery can be considered for dental implants. However, certain medical conditions and lifestyle factors may affect eligibility. A thorough evaluation is necessary to determine if implants are right for you.

Caring for dental implants is similar to caring for natural teeth. This includes regular brushing, flossing, and routine dental checkups and cleanings. Good oral hygiene is essential to ensure the longevity of your implants.

The procedure for placing dental implants is typically performed under local anesthesia and sedation, making it comfortable and painless. Post-surgical discomfort is usually mild and can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication.

With proper care and maintenance, dental implants can last a lifetime. They are a long-term solution designed to integrate with your jawbone, providing durability and stability.

Dental implants are small, titanium posts that are surgically placed into the jawbone to serve as a stable foundation for replacement teeth. They are designed to mimic the root of a natural tooth and can support crowns, bridges, or dentures.

The cost of professional teeth whitening varies based on the specific treatment and the number of sessions needed. We provide a detailed cost breakdown during your consultation and offer financing options to accommodate your budget.

The length of the whitening procedure can vary depending on the method used and the extent of discoloration. Typically, an in-office whitening session at Cresta Bella Dental & Braces takes about an hour.

Some people may experience temporary tooth sensitivity following a whitening treatment. We use techniques and products to minimize sensitivity and ensure your comfort throughout the process.

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

The duration of teeth whitening results can vary depending on lifestyle factors such as diet, oral hygiene, and tobacco use. Generally, the effects can last from several months to a few years. Touch-up treatments can help maintain the brightness.

Yes, when performed by a dental professional, teeth whitening is a safe procedure. At Cresta Bella Dental & Braces, we take great care to ensure your oral health is not compromised during the whitening process.

Professional teeth whitening offers stronger bleaching agents and a more controlled and safe application compared to over-the-counter products. This leads to more noticeable and longer-lasting results. Additionally, professional whitening takes into account your individual dental health, ensuring the treatment is suitable for you.

Professional teeth whitening is a cosmetic dental procedure that involves the use of high-quality bleaching agents to remove stains and discoloration from the teeth. It is performed under the supervision of a dental professional, ensuring safety and effectiveness.

Being prepared for a dental emergency involves:

• Knowing our contact information.
• Keeping a small dental first aid kit handy.
• Regular dental visits for checkups to identify potential issues early.

Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage discomfort until you reach our office. Avoid applying aspirin directly to the gums or the aching tooth, as this can cause tissue damage.

No insurance? No worries. We offer affordable payment options and our in-house Membership Savings Plan, Cresta Bella Advantage, to ensure you receive the care you need without financial stress.

Coverage for emergency dental treatment varies depending on your dental insurance plan. Our office staff can help you understand your benefits and provide information on our affordable payment options.

For after-hours dental emergencies, call our office at (210) 465-3711. We have arrangements to assist you and provide the necessary guidance.

Yes, at Cresta Bella Dental & Braces, we offer same-day appointments for dental emergencies to address your urgent needs promptly.

While not all dental emergencies can be prevented, regular dental checkups and good oral hygiene can significantly reduce the risk. Wearing mouthguards during sports and avoiding chewing hard objects can also prevent traumatic dental injuries.

Seek treatment as soon as possible. For certain emergencies, like a knocked-out tooth, receiving care within an hour can make the difference in saving the tooth.

If you have a knocked-out tooth, time is of the essence:

• Handle the tooth by the crown, not the root.
• If dirty, gently rinse the tooth with water.
• Try to reinsert it in the socket. If that’s not possible, keep it moist in milk or saliva.
• Call us immediately at (210) 465-3711 for urgent care.

A dental emergency includes any situation that requires immediate dental care to save a tooth, stop ongoing tissue bleeding, alleviate severe pain, or treat a serious infection. Common dental emergencies include severe toothaches, knocked-out teeth, broken or lost restorations, and injuries to the gums or lips.