Question 1

What is cosmetic dentistry?

Accepted Answer

Cosmetic dentistry is a combination of art and science which renders you a healthy and flawless smile. Treatments like teeth whitening, contouring, bonding, veneers, teeth alignment and other smile makeovers are all a part of cosmetic dentistry.

Question 2

How does it differ from general dentistry?

Accepted Answer

General dental treatment oversees the good and health of teeth and gums while cosmetic dentistry is more involved with the aesthetic appearance of your teeth and smile. A general dentist can practice cosmetic dentistry with some training and experience, but general dentistry focuses mainly on maintaining your mouth’s health and infection free, whereas cosmetic dentistry offers comprehensive treatments to improve and preserve the way your smile appears and feels.

Question 3

What are the different types of cosmetic dentistry treatments available?

Accepted Answer

The treatments are varied depending upon what is desired by the individual. People with excess gum tissue may have “gummy smile”. Gum contouring and reshaping may bring about the beautiful smile in you. People with discolored teeth can do professional chairside teeth whitening to flaunt a bright smile. Teeth deformities like overcrowding or gaps in between can be treated with Invisalign or other invisible braces. Lost teeth can be replaced with dental implants or bridges. Other cosmetic dental treatments include:

Smile analysis and planning
    Full mouth restoration
    Dental bridges
    Dental Veneers
    Tooth-colored fillings

Question 4

Is cosmetic dentistry treatment permanent?

Accepted Answer

While cosmetic dentistry aims to improve the overall look of teeth, the permanency depends on the type of treatment done. While braces may correct the teeth within a year or so, dental implants may potentially last forever depending on overall oral hygiene and upkeep.

Question 5

What is the cost of cosmetic dentistry?

Accepted Answer

The cost varies for different treatments. It depends on factors like the material used, the type of treatment done, and its durability. At Accu Dental, we offer excellent cosmetic dental treatments at affordable prices and different payment options.

Question 6

Who is the right candidate for teeth whitening?

Accepted Answer

Any patient that wants to lighten the shade of the tooth and is in good physical and oral health and is free of cavities and infection is a good candidate for professional chairside teeth whitening procedure.

Question 7

What does dental implant treatment consist of?

Accepted Answer

Dental implants offer a replacement for missing teeth. They are not actually teeth but a prosthesis used in replacing missing teeth, which are small titanium posts inserted into the jawbone. On top of that, a crown, fixed bridge, partial denture and full denture can be attached. It takes a few weeks to few months for the implants to integrate with your bones. After the implant integrates solidly with the bone, an abutment is attached to the implant to provide the proper transfer of forces to the implant and for alignment with rest of the teeth.. Finally a crown is screwed on to the abutment.

Question 8

Am I the right candidate for dental implants?

Accepted Answer

Anyone who is missing a tooth or multiple teeth can get dental implants. An ideal candidate must exhibit good oral health and have enough bone structure to accommodate implants. Schedule a complimentary consultation with our dental implant expert doctors at Accu Dental to learn whether you are a good candidate for dental implants.

Question 9

How can I benefit from dental implants?

Accepted Answer

Dental implants can replace teeth lost to decay, gum disease, or accidents. They can potentially last for a lifetime and improve appearance, confidence, and the capability to eat your favorite foods and continue your active lifestyle without the need for a removable attachment or a dental bridge. Implants are made of titanium metal and won’t decay or rust with time.

Question 10

What is the cost of dental implants?

Accepted Answer

Generally the expense required to replace a single tooth with a dental implant is about the same as replacing it with a fixed bridge. Some insurance plans may cover dental implant treatment. The cost of the implants also depends on the patient’s needs, bone quantity and region. We offer affordable dental implant solutions with third party financing options. Our treatment coordinators at Accu Dental can give you a no obligation quote along with the complimentary implant consultation with our implant doctors.

Question 11

Is the treatment safe?

Accepted Answer

Dental implant treatment is regarded as one of the safest treatment options in the field of dentistry. It is the only method of restoring teeth that stimulates natural bones underneath the missing tooth. However, any medical procedure can have some problems. Therefore, choose a knowledgeable, trained expert implant dentist who can minimize any complications and offer successful treatment. You must discuss your health history with your dentist, plus any habits that can affect the treatment.

Question 12

Are implants painful?

Accepted Answer

Dental implant treatment is not a painful procedure. However, you will feel a little discomfort. For patients who are anxious about the treatment, you have nothing to worry about as you can be fully or partially sedated or numbed with the help of anesthesia. Our implant dentists will keep your comfort in mind with the goal of best implant treatment outcomes.

Question 13

How can I take care of dental implants?

Accepted Answer

If you take good care of your dental implants, they can last for decades. Brush twice a day, floss daily, and visit your dentist regularly for check-ups.

Question 14

Why is visiting the dentist essential for our oral health?

Accepted Answer

Visiting the dentist regularly not just takes care of oral health but keeps the entire body healthy. Dental care is essential because:

It helps in preventing tooth decay.
    Gum diseases can be prevented, which can further lead to loss of teeth and bones.
    It prevents bad breath.
    It offers you an appealing smile and improves your self-confidence.
    It gives you whiter and brighter teeth by preventing them from any stains or discoloration.

Question 15

How often must one visit a dentist?

Accepted Answer

Everyone, whether children, teenagers, or adults, should visit a dentist for a regular check-up every six months. Patients that are at risk of oral cancer or gum diseases need to visit a dentist more than twice a year. Our experienced dentists at Accu Dental will advise how often you should schedule an appointment with us.

Question 16

Is flossing necessary? Isn’t brushing enough?

Accepted Answer

We are not completely free of bacteria through brushing. Flossing decreases the number of bacteria in our mouth by removing those areas missed by your toothbrush. When you floss, you reach the bacteria hidden between your teeth and tiny spaces. If bacteria isn’t removed, they multiply ultimately causing tooth decay or gum disease.

Question 17

Why does the dentist take an x-ray. Is a visual exam not enough?

Accepted Answer

With a visual examination of your mouth, many conditions and diseases of the surrounding teeth and tissues cannot be identified. When a dentist takes an x-ray, it reveals:

Hidden areas of decay between the teeth or below fillings.
    Bone infection.
    Periodontal diseases.
    Dental abscess.
    Any developmental abnormalities.
    Any tumor.

X-rays helps doctors at Accu Dental to do a comprehensive diagnosis, and may save you time, money and effort by detecting any hidden oral issues at an early stage.

Question 18

What should I do if I knock out my tooth?

Accepted Answer

Oral injuries require immediate attention and should be treated by a dentist as soon as possible. However, until you reach the dentist’s office, given below are some of the tips you can follow:

Rinse your mouth to eliminate any dirt or debris.
    Gently lick or clean the tooth under tap water. Never scrub the tooth or hold the root of the tooth.
    Reinsert the tooth back in the socket.
    If you cannot put the knocked-out tooth into your mouth, keep it moist by placing between your gum and cheek or in a small jar of milk.
    Call Accu Dental dentists in bay area or monterey area immediately. For a successful restoration, you need prompt treatment.

Question 19

Why is fluoride essential to oral health?

Accepted Answer

Experts including our experienced dentists recommend fluoride for dental health because it helps prevent tooth decay by making your enamel resistant to acid attacks and plaque bacteria. Some studies have revealed that children who drank fluoridated water had less dental decay. Applying fluoride reverses early decay and helps prevent osteoporosis – a disease that leads to degenerative bone loss.

Question 20

I have sensitive teeth. What can I do?

Accepted Answer

Talk to our doctors first to rule out any potential infection. If sensitivity is general in nature without underlying issues our doctors will likely prescribe sensitivity toothpaste which contain strontium chloride or potassium nitrate, and is effective in treating sensitivity. Within a few weeks, you should observe some relief from sensitivity.

Question 21

What is Invisalign treatment?

Accepted Answer

Invisalign treatment offers an alternative treatment to typical braces. It allows you to adjust misaligned teeth without the worry of maintaining regular and non-removable braces.

Question 22

What are the advantages of Invisalign over traditional methods?

Accepted Answer

Invisalign has several benefits over traditional methods:

1. Invisalign braces are invisible, so you can flaunt your smile without even letting anyone else notice the braces.

2. They are removable so it doesn’t interrupt normal oral hygiene routines.

3. Invisalign doesn’t put any restrictions on food habits so you are free to eat what you want.

4. The treatment duration is shorter compared to traditional braces although the traditional braces are preferred for complex teeth misalignment conditions.

Question 23

Describe the process of Invisalign treatment?

Accepted Answer

Firstly schedule your complimentary consultation with our Invisalign dentists, who will then customize the treatment type to be done according to your smile and requirement. Then the aligners are created accordingly. An individual has to wear an aligner for 20-22 hours a day. Patients are required to change the set of aligners periodically which can vary from two to four weeks.

Question 24

What is the cost of Invisalign treatment?

Accepted Answer

The cost is more or less similar to that of traditional braces. The cost may vary based on complexity and length of treatment. Longer the treatment, the more set of aligners you need to reach the end of treatment. Our treatment coordinators at Accu Dental can give you a no obligation quote along with the complimentary Invisalign consultation with our Invisalign dentist.

Question 25

Is the treatment painful?

Accepted Answer

Some patients may experience minor discomfort for a few days at the beginning of every new stage of the treatment when they place a new set of aligners. The discomfort is completely normal because the aligner is applying pressure on various teeth to push them in a certain direction of alignment. This is a sign that the aligners are working.

Question 26

Will my speech be interfered if I am wearing Invisalign braces?

Accepted Answer

As every orthodontic treatment takes some time to adjust in your mouth, Invisalign also takes a few days to adjust to your mouth. Many patients share their experience that they notice no changes while they speak. However, some may find a little difficulty for the first few days. As soon as you acclimate to your aligners, you will return to your normal speech once again.

Question 27

How do I maintain my aligners?

Accepted Answer

It is effortless and easy to maintain your aligners. Just like you brush your teeth, brush your aligners with a toothbrush and toothpaste and rinse them well with luke-warm water. At Accu Dental, our dental experts will provide tips to take good care of your aligners.

Question 28

What is Orthodontics and who is an Orthodontist?

Accepted Answer

Orthodontics is a specialized branch of dentistry that concentrates on diagnosing, preventing, and treating dental and facial abnormalities. It is also known as dentofacial orthopedics.

An orthodontist is a dental specialist who has an additional two to three years of experience in this field. They are experts in straightening your teeth and correcting the jaw’s skeletal discrepancies, improving your smile’s functioning. Orthodontic or metal braces consultation at Accu Dental are always complimentary.

Question 29

What is the right age to visit an Orthodontist?

Accepted Answer

The American Association of Orthodontists suggests children make their first visit to an orthodontist at around age seven. However, Orthodontics is not just for children or teenagers. According to a study, approximately one in every five orthodontic patients is over 21. Our Orthodontist at Accu Dental can advise you if you or your child is a good candidate for full or limited Orthodontic treatment after the free exam.

Question 30

How to take care of my teeth when wearing braces or a retainer?

Accepted Answer

Make sure you brush your teeth after each meal and floss once a day.
    Use fluoride-based toothpaste and ask our expert dentists at Accu Dental whether you need a fluoride rinse too. You can prevent cavities.
    Brush your retainer gently with a toothbrush and toothpaste to keep it clean. You can also soak it in a denture cleaner as suggested by your dentist. Never put it in boiling water or the dishwasher.
    When undergoing Orthodontic treatment, try avoiding food with more sugar content. Consuming foods with higher sugars may increase the number of bacteria in your mouth that can lead to potential cavities and decay.
    Avoid sticky, chewy and hard foods or any food that can get stuck in your braces.

Question 31

What does the term “braces” mean?

Accepted Answer

An orthodontist recommends braces to improve the malocclusion of your teeth. If you have misaligned teeth and want a straighter smile, consider braces to correct the condition. At Accu Dental our Orthodontist can provide various types of braces:

Clear braces.
    Ceramic braces.
    Lingual braces.
    Invisible braces.
    Traditional metal braces

Question 32

What long does it take to straighten my teeth?

Accepted Answer

The time required to align your teeth varies from one patient to another. The factors influencing the Orthodontic length of treatment are age, amount of misalignment, preconditions before starting Orthodontic treatment (e.g fix cavities or remove infection with Root Canal treatment), bone density, compliance and a person’s bodily response to braces. The treatment time may range from 6 months to 36 months approximately. Majority of the Orthodontic cases are treated within twenty four months.

Question 33

Will braces hurt?

Accepted Answer

Braces will not hurt for the most part, although you can experience slight discomfort for a few days initially as the parts of your mouth get used to the new braces.

You are in good hands!

General Dentists and Specialists

Suman Ramakumar, D.D.S, FICOI

Owner, General Dentist

Dipti Shinde, D.D.S

General Dentist

Darren Smolkin, D.M.D

Endodontist

Eric Osmolinski, D.D.S.

Oral Surgeon

David Hwang, D.D.S

Endodontist

Abbas Doctor, D.D.S

Periodontist

Sara Kahng

Orthodontist

New Patients Welcome

All PPO & Union Insurances Accepted

Second Opinion, Emergency or Limited Exam*

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Dental Implants***

Invisalign or metal braces****

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