Frequently Asked Questions

Have questions? Our FAQ page has answers to help you understand our services, policies, and what to expect during your visit. We're here to make your dental experience as smooth as possible.

Dental Checkups

How often should I schedule a dental checkup?

We recommend visiting us every six months for routine checkups and cleanings. However, some patients may need more frequent visits based on their oral health needs.

What happens during my first visit?

Your initial visit includes a comprehensive exam, digital x-rays, professional cleaning, and a personalized consultation with Dr. Norbhu to discuss your dental health goals.

Do you accept insurance?

Yes, we accept most major insurance plans and offer flexible payment options, including CareCredit, cash, checks, and credit cards.

Can I schedule same-day emergency appointments?

Yes, we reserve time in our schedule for dental emergencies and will do our best to see you the same day.

Is parking available?

Yes, we offer free parking for all our patients, conveniently located right outside our office.

Do you see children?

Absolutely! We welcome patients of all ages and have a dedicated children's play area to make visits fun for our youngest patients.

What if I have dental anxiety?

We offer various comfort options, including oral sedation and laughing gas, to help anxious patients feel relaxed during their visit.

How long does a checkup appointment take?

A typical checkup and cleaning appointment takes about 60 minutes. New patient visits may take longer to allow time for a thorough examination and consultation.

What should I bring to my first appointment?

Please bring your insurance card, photo ID, and a list of any medications you're currently taking. You can also save time by completing our new patient forms online.

Do you offer evening or weekend appointments?

We're open Monday through Friday from 8AM to 5PM and strive to accommodate our patients' busy schedules with flexible appointment times.

SureSmile Clear Aligners

How long does clear aligner treatment take?

Treatment duration varies by patient, but typically ranges from 6-18 months, depending on your specific needs and goals.

Are clear aligners comfortable?

Yes! While you may experience mild pressure when starting each new aligner set, most patients find them much more comfortable than traditional braces.

How much do clear aligners cost?

Treatment cost varies based on your specific needs. We offer flexible financing options and will discuss all costs during your consultation.

Can I eat normally with clear aligners?

Yes! Simply remove your aligners before eating or drinking anything except water, then clean your teeth before reinserting them.

How do I clean my aligners?

Clean your aligners daily with lukewarm water and gentle soap or a specialized aligner cleaner. Never use hot water, which can warp the plastic.

Will clear aligners affect my speech?

Most patients experience a brief adjustment period of a few days, after which speech returns to normal.

How often do I need appointments?

We typically schedule check-ups every 6-8 weeks to monitor your progress and provide new sets of aligners.

Are clear aligners right for everyone?

While clear aligners can treat many orthodontic issues, some complex cases may require traditional braces. Dr. Norbhu will determine the best treatment for your specific needs.

Can I remove my aligners for special occasions?

Yes, but remember that wearing your aligners for 20-22 hours daily is crucial for staying on schedule with your treatment plan.

What happens after treatment is complete?

Like all orthodontic treatment, you'll need to wear a retainer to maintain your new smile. We'll discuss retainer options and create a maintenance plan specific to your needs.

Veneers

How long do porcelain veneers last?

With proper care and maintenance, porcelain veneers typically last 10-15 years or longer. Regular dental checkups and good oral hygiene help extend their lifespan.

Are veneers permanent?

Yes, veneers are considered a permanent treatment as they require removing a small amount of natural tooth enamel. This ensures the proper fit and natural appearance of the veneers.

Will veneers look natural?

Absolutely! Our premium porcelain veneers are custom-designed to match your natural teeth in color, translucency, and shape. Most people won't be able to tell you have veneers.

Is the veneer procedure painful?

No, we use local anesthesia to ensure your comfort during the procedure. Many patients enjoy watching Netflix with wireless headphones during their treatment.

Can I eat normally with veneers?

Yes, you can enjoy most foods normally. However, we recommend avoiding excessive force on your veneers, such as biting into very hard foods or using your teeth as tools.

How do I care for my veneers?

Care for your veneers just like natural teeth with regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups. We'll provide detailed care instructions to help maintain your investment.

Are veneers covered by insurance?

Since veneers are considered cosmetic, they typically aren't covered by insurance. However, we offer flexible financing options to help make your dream smile affordable.

How many veneers will I need?

The number of veneers needed varies by patient. Some may only need a few veneers to address specific concerns, while others choose a full set for a complete smile makeover.

What's the difference between porcelain and composite veneers?

Porcelain veneers are more durable, stain-resistant, and natural-looking than composite veneers. While initially more expensive, they typically last longer and maintain their appearance better.

Can veneers fix crooked teeth?

Veneers can improve the appearance of mildly crooked teeth. For more significant alignment issues, we may recommend orthodontic treatment like SureSmile clear aligners before veneers.

Dental Implants

How long do dental implants last?

With proper care and maintenance, dental implants can last a lifetime. The crown portion typically needs replacement every 10-15 years due to normal wear and tear.

Is the dental implant procedure painful?

We use local anesthesia and offer sedation options to ensure your comfort throughout the procedure. Most patients report minimal discomfort during recovery.

How long does the implant process take?

The complete process typically takes 3-6 months, depending on your individual healing time and whether any preliminary procedures are needed.

Are dental implants covered by insurance?

Many insurance plans provide partial coverage for implants. We offer flexible financing options and will help you understand your coverage and payment options.

Am I a good candidate for dental implants?

Most adults with good general and oral health are candidates for implants. We'll evaluate factors like bone density and gum health during your consultation.

How do I care for my dental implants?

Dental implants require the same care as natural teeth: regular brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings. No special maintenance is needed.

What advantages do implants have over dentures?

Implants provide superior stability, prevent bone loss, allow normal eating and speaking, and don't require adhesives or special cleaning routines.

How successful are dental implants?

Dental implants have a success rate of over 95% when placed by a qualified professional using modern techniques and technology.

Can implants be placed the same day as extraction?

In many cases, immediate implant placement is possible. We'll evaluate your specific situation during the consultation.

What is the recovery time after implant surgery?

Most patients return to normal activities within a few days. Complete healing and integration takes 3-6 months before final restoration placement.

Teeth Whitening

How long does professional teeth whitening take?

In-office treatments typically take 60-90 minutes, while take-home treatments are used over several days or weeks according to your customized plan.

Is professional teeth whitening safe?

Yes, professional whitening is safe when performed under dental supervision. We carefully evaluate your oral health before recommending any whitening treatment.

How long do the results last?

Results can last anywhere from 6 months to 2 years, depending on your habits and maintenance routine.

Will teeth whitening cause sensitivity?

Some patients may experience temporary sensitivity, which typically subsides within a few days. We offer solutions to minimize any discomfort.

Can all types of stains be removed?

While most external stains respond well to whitening, some internal stains may require alternative cosmetic treatments. We'll discuss all options during your consultation.

Is teeth whitening covered by insurance?

As a cosmetic procedure, teeth whitening is typically not covered by insurance. However, we offer flexible financing options to make treatment accessible.

How do I maintain my whitening results?

Good oral hygiene, regular dental visits, and avoiding staining substances help maintain results. We'll provide specific maintenance recommendations.

Can I whiten my teeth if I have dental work?

Existing dental work won't respond to whitening treatments. We'll discuss options to ensure your smile looks natural and uniform.

What's the difference between professional and over-the-counter whitening?

Professional whitening uses stronger formulations and custom-fitted trays for better results and reduced sensitivity compared to store-bought options.

How do I get started with teeth whitening?

Schedule a consultation at our Vancouver office to discuss your whitening goals and create your personalized treatment plan.

Root Canal Treatment

Is a root canal painful?

No. With modern anesthesia and gentle techniques, most patients report feeling little to no discomfort—similar to getting a filling.

How long does a root canal take?

Most treatments are completed in one visit, lasting 60-90 minutes.

Will I be able to eat normally after a root canal?

Soft foods are recommended for the first few days, but you can return to a normal diet once healing is complete.

How long does recovery take?

Most patients feel back to normal within a day or two. Minor soreness may last a few days but is easily managed.

What happens if I delay treatment?

An untreated infection can spread, causing severe pain, swelling, and even tooth loss.

Do I need a crown after a root canal?

In most cases, yes. A custom crown strengthens and protects the treated tooth from future damage.

Is a root canal better than an extraction?

Yes. Saving your natural tooth preserves your bite, jawbone, and overall oral health, while an extraction may require additional procedures.

Will my insurance cover a root canal?

Most insurance plans cover part or all of the procedure. We also offer affordable financing options to help with out-of-pocket costs.

Can I get a same-day emergency root canal?

Yes. We offer same-day emergency appointments to treat severe tooth pain and infections quickly.

How do I schedule an appointment?

Call our office today to schedule a consultation and discuss your treatment options.

Emergency Dentistry

What qualifies as a dental emergency?

A dental emergency typically includes severe pain, bleeding, knocked-out teeth, loose adult teeth, or significant swelling. If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, contact us immediately.

Do you offer same-day emergency appointments?

Yes, we accommodate same-day emergency appointments to provide prompt care when you need it most.

What should I do if my tooth gets knocked out?

Keep the tooth moist, preferably by placing it back in the socket or in milk, and contact us immediately. Quick action can help save your tooth.

Will my dental insurance cover emergency treatment?

Most dental insurance plans provide coverage for emergency dental care. Our team will work with your insurance provider to maximize your benefits.

Is sedation available for emergency dental procedures?

Yes, we offer laughing gas to ensure your comfort during emergency procedures.

How can I prevent dental emergencies?

Regular dental check-ups, wearing protective gear during sports, and avoiding hard foods can help prevent many dental emergencies

What if I have a dental emergency after hours?

Contact our office immediately. We provide guidance for after-hours emergencies and will schedule you for the earliest available appointment.

How much will emergency dental treatment cost?

Treatment costs vary depending on the specific emergency and necessary procedures. We offer multiple payment options and financing plans to make emergency care affordable.

What emergency dental services do you provide?

We offer comprehensive emergency dental services, including treatment for severe pain, broken teeth, lost fillings, infections, and trauma-related dental emergencies.

How long will my emergency appointment take?

The duration varies depending on your specific situation. We prioritize addressing your immediate concern while ensuring thorough, quality care.

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