Most patients need a checkup every 3-4 months due to inflammation (gingivitis), gum disease, or bone loss (periodontitis). Those with no restorations and perfect hygiene may go every 6 months.

As long as fluoride is not ingested, it is safe.

Oral-B and Sonicare electric toothbrushes consistently perform well.

Teeth darken with age due to diet and hygiene. This can be minimized with regular professional care and whitening.

You cannot. Brushes miss 30% of total tooth surface. Without flossing, food debris and bacteria lead to cavities and periodontitis.

Deep cleaning is scaling and root planning into each pocket removing all the calculus and inflammatory agent.

Only at an early incipient stage can a cavity be remineralized to form "scar" enamel tissue.

Reasons include TMJ disorder, bruxism, or arthritis. Visual exam and imaging are required for diagnosis.

Solutions range from smoking cessation and soft brushes to deep cleanings and occlusal guards.

It is abrasive and can damage enamel or cause gum infection if trapped in pockets. Not recommended.

Look for a "pimple" on the gums or seek X-rays. Abscesses can lead to dangerous systemic infections if untreated.

Clean it gently, store it securely, and see your dentist immediately for potential re-cementing.

Depends on location and symptoms. Contact us for personalized, case-based care.

Do not ignore it. Pain can indicate cysts or infections that may lead to jaw fracture or systemic risk.

Yes. Depending on the reason, a re-treatment may be indicated.

Do not scrub. Rinse with milk/water. Place back in socket if possible. See a dentist within 60 minutes.

May be due to nerve irritation, thin enamel, exposed roots, or whitening products.

Heat sensitivity usually indicates a dying/damaged nerve; a root canal is often required.

Yes, if not counter-indicated for you. Always follow dosage instructions.

Yes! It may be an abscess spreading systemically. Seek help immediately.

Typically ranges from $2,000 to $5,000 per tooth.

Invisalign are removable clear aligners (20-22 hrs/day). Braces are fixed brackets and wires.

Longevity depends on hygiene and health. Clinically known as Fixed Partial Denture (CDT D6240/D6750), they can last many years.

Depending on the level of loss, yes. A bone graft may be indicated.

They require an irreversible reduction/shaving of the tooth structure.

A full arch of zirconia or acrylic teeth supported by 4 implants for patients missing all teeth on an arch.

No. Touch-ups are required to maintain results based on diet and hygiene.

Generally, no.

Options include LASER treatment or traditional gingivectomy.

Algorithms that flag potential decay on X-rays.

A brand of 3-D milling that allows for crowns to be fabricated chair-side in a single visit.

Yes, though current availability is limited by high installation costs.

Via Bluetooth, pressure sensors, and apps.

Yes. Smoking and vaping damage gum tissue.

Hormonal changes increase "pregnancy gingivitis" risk. Frequent checkups are recommended.

Causes include post-nasal drip, tonsil stones, respiratory infections, or plaque buildup on the tongue.

Always soft. Hard bristles abraid enamel and cause recession.

Typically between $30,000 and $60,000 in the San Francisco market.

Fees in SF vary from $120 to $200.

Yes.

Yes, if a dental plan is not being used.

Severe pain, spread of infection, and bone damage.

Initial healing takes 1-2 weeks.

Generally not for PPO plans; HMO plans usually require one from a general dentist.