FAQ

We are proud to serve patients from Ewa Beach, Honolulu, Kahaluu, Kailua, Kapolei, Makaha, Nānākuli, Waianae, Waimānalo and Waipahu, Hawaii.

Cosmetic dentistry can address issues such as discolored, chipped or misaligned teeth, improving the overall aesthetics of your smile. Treatments are tailored to each individual’s needs to achieve a natural-looking result.

Typically, cosmetic dentistry procedures are not covered by insurance as they are considered elective. However, some treatments that also improve oral health may have partial coverage. It is best to check with your insurance provider.

Dental veneers are thin shells made of porcelain or composite resin that are bonded to the front surface of your teeth. They improve the appearance of teeth that are stained, chipped or slightly misaligned.

Veneers are considered a permanent solution because a small amount of enamel is removed from your teeth to place them. Although they can technically be removed, it is not recommended as the underlying teeth will need to be protected.

Invisalign® treatment uses clear, removable aligners to straighten teeth, making them virtually invisible. Unlike traditional braces, there are no metal brackets or wires, and the aligners can be removed for eating and cleaning.

For the best results, Invisalign aligners should be worn 20 to 22 hours a day, removing them only for eating, drinking, brushing and flossing.

We offer both in-office teeth whitening and take-home whitening kits. In-office treatments provide immediate results, while take-home kits allow you to whiten your teeth at your convenience.

Yes, we offer teeth whitening options that are safe for sensitive teeth. It is important to consult with us to choose the right product and approach to minimize sensitivity.

Teeth whitening results can last from six months to two years, depending on your lifestyle and oral hygiene habits. Avoiding staining foods and drinks can help maintain your bright smile longer.

Family dentistry services include routine checkups, cleanings, fluoride treatments, sealants, fillings and preventative care for all ages. We also offer personalized care plans for each family member.

It is recommended that everyone in the family has dental checkups every six months. Regular visits help prevent dental issues and maintain overall oral health.

A dental emergency includes severe tooth pain, knocked-out teeth, broken or cracked teeth, abscesses and soft tissue injuries. Immediate attention is crucial to prevent further damage and alleviate pain.

We strive to see emergency patients on the same day they contact us. Prompt treatment is our priority to address your pain and prevent complications.

They prevent cavities by sealing out food particles and bacteria from the grooves of your teeth.

Both children and adults can benefit from dental sealants. They are especially beneficial for children whose molars are more susceptible to cavities due to deep grooves and pits.

Tooth extraction is necessary when a tooth is severely decayed, damaged beyond repair or causing crowding. It may also be required for impacted wisdom teeth or in preparation for orthodontic treatment.

The recovery process includes resting, avoiding strenuous activities and following specific aftercare instructions. Most people can return to normal activities within a few days, but complete healing may take a few weeks.

Tooth extractions are performed under local anesthesia, so you should not feel pain during the procedure. Post-extraction discomfort can be managed with prescribed pain medication and proper aftercare.

Scaling and root planing is a deep cleaning procedure that removes plaque and tartar from below the gum line. It is necessary to treat and prevent periodontal disease by eliminating bacteria and promoting gum health.

The frequency of scaling and root planing depends on the severity of periodontal disease. Some patients may need it every few months, while others may only require it once or twice a year.

Scaling and root planing can cause some discomfort, but local anesthesia is used to numb the area during the procedure. Post-treatment soreness can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.

We offer traditional metal braces, ceramic braces and Invisalign clear aligners. Each type has its benefits, and we help determine the best option for your needs.

The duration of orthodontic treatment varies but typically ranges from 18 to 24 months. The exact time depends on the complexity of the case and the type of braces used.

Yes, patients with braces should avoid hard, sticky and chewy foods that can damage brackets and wires. It is also important to maintain good oral hygiene to prevent cavities and gum issues.

Clear braces use transparent or tooth-colored brackets and wires, making them less noticeable than traditional metal braces. They work similarly but offer a more aesthetic option for orthodontic treatment.

Yes, clear braces are just as effective as metal braces for correcting most orthodontic issues. They provide the same level of treatment while being less visible.

Clear braces require adjustments every four to six weeks, similar to traditional braces. Regular appointments ensure that your treatment progresses as planned.

Yes, sedation dentistry is safe for children when administered by a trained professional. It helps manage anxiety and ensure a positive dental experience.

Preparation for sedation dentistry includes fasting for a certain period, arranging transportation and following specific pre-procedure instructions provided by our dentist.

It is recommended to schedule dental cleanings and exams every six months. Regular visits help maintain oral health and catch any issues early.

During a routine dental exam, we check for cavities, gum disease and other oral health issues. The exam includes a professional cleaning, X-rays if needed and an oral cancer screening.

Symptoms of TMJ disorders include jaw pain, headaches, earaches, difficulty chewing and clicking or popping sounds in the jaw. These symptoms can vary in severity.

Treatment options for TMJ clenching and grinding include mouthguards, physical therapy, medication and lifestyle changes. Severe cases may require more advanced treatments such as injections or surgery.

Yes, at-home remedies for TMJ pain include applying ice or heat packs, eating soft foods, avoiding extreme jaw movements and practicing stress-relief techniques such as relaxation exercises.

Dental implants are titanium posts surgically placed into the jawbone to serve as a stable base for replacement teeth. They fuse with the bone over time, providing a durable and natural-looking solution for missing teeth.

The dental implant process can take several months, including the healing period after placing the implant and before attaching the replacement tooth. The exact time varies depending on individual cases.

Yes, dental implants are designed to be a permanent solution. With proper care and maintenance, they can last a lifetime, providing a stable and functional replacement for missing teeth.

Yes, composite resin fillings can be matched to the color of your natural teeth, providing a seamless and aesthetically pleasing result.

Root canal therapy is a procedure to remove infected or damaged pulp from inside a tooth. It is necessary when the pulp becomes inflamed or infected, causing pain and potentially leading to an abscess.

Root canal therapy is performed under local anesthesia, so you should not feel pain during the procedure. Post-treatment discomfort is usually mild and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.

A root canal procedure typically takes one to two visits, with each visit lasting about 60-90 minutes. The exact time depends on the complexity of the case.

Crowns and bridges can last 10-15 years or longer with proper care. Regular dental checkups and good oral hygiene practices help extend their lifespan.

Yes, crowns and bridges are commonly used to replace missing teeth. Bridges fill the gap left by missing teeth, while crowns provide strength and support to the adjacent teeth.

Full dentures replace all the teeth in the upper or lower jaw, while partial dentures replace one or more missing teeth and are anchored to the remaining natural teeth.

The process of getting dentures or partials typically takes several weeks and multiple appointments. This includes initial impressions, fitting trials and final adjustments.

Dentures and partials are designed to be comfortable, but it may take some time to adjust to wearing them. Proper fit and regular adjustments help ensure comfort and functionality.

Yes, most broken dentures can be repaired. It is important to bring the broken pieces to our office as soon as possible to prevent further damage and ensure proper repair.

The All-on-4® implant procedure involves placing four dental implants in the jawbone to support a full arch of replacement teeth. This technique provides a stable and permanent solution for missing teeth.

All-on-4 uses fewer implants and allows for immediate placement of a full arch of teeth, often reducing the need for bone grafting. This makes it a faster and more cost-effective option compared to traditional implants.

Yes, All-on-4 implants are designed to be a permanent solution. With proper care and maintenance, they can last a lifetime, providing a secure and natural-looking replacement for missing teeth.