frequently asked questions

The length of treatment depends on the severity of the dental misalignment, but most patients wear braces for one to three years. 

There may be some initial discomfort as your mouth adjusts to the braces, but most patients find that the discomfort fades quickly.

Patients typically visit the orthodontist every 4-6 weeks to have their braces adjusted.

Yes, but we recommend wearing a mouthguard to protect your teeth and braces during physical activity.

Patients should avoid hard, sticky, and chewy foods that can damage the braces or get stuck in them, such as popcorn, caramel, and gum.

The dentist will start by numbing the tooth and the area around it to make sure you’re comfortable throughout the process. Next, your dentist will shape the damaged tooth to better support the crown and creates an impression. 

Here’s the exciting part: With our advanced, proven technology, we can provide same-day crowns! That means you can walk out with your new crown in just one appointment.

With proper care and maintenance, dental crowns can last from 5 to 15 years. The lifespan of a crown depends on factors such as the material used, the location of the tooth, and oral hygiene habits.

Generally, dental crown procedures are not painful, but involve some discomfort. Our team of dental professionals highly value your experience and ensure minimal discomfort.

The most common dental emergency is a toothache. A toothache can be caused by a variety of factors such as tooth decay, a cracked or broken tooth, infection, or gum disease. Other common dental emergencies include a lost filling or crown, a broken or chipped tooth, and a knocked-out tooth.

We offer same-day appointments and extended hours to ensure that you receive timely care. Call our office and our answering service will direct you to the appropriate care.

Dental emergencies can be prevented by maintaining good oral hygiene, wearing a mouthguard during contact sports, and avoiding hard and sticky foods.

If a permanent tooth is knocked out, rinse it with water and reposition the tooth in the socket immediately before seeing a dentist. If that’s not possible, keep the tooth moist at all times either in your mouth or put it in milk bring it to our office immediately.

Generally, most dental insurance plans cover emergency dental services. Our team will work with you to ensure you receive the care you need with the proper coverage.

Dental fillings are made of single or combinations of materials including composite resin, porcelain, gold, and silver amalgam.

It is common for fillings to cause little to no discomfort. The dentist will use a local anesthetic to numb the area before beginning the procedure.

The lifespan of a dental filling depends on the material used and maintenance. With proper care, dental fillings can last from 5 to 15 years.

Yes, you can eat and drink normally after a dental filling. The general rule of thumb is to avoid hot or cold food and drinks immediately after.

While rare, some people may experience sensitivity, pain, or an allergic reaction to the materials used in dental fillings.

There are three main steps for a teeth cleaning: teeth examination, plaque and tartar removal, and teeth polishing.

Most people should have teeth cleaning appointments every six months, but your dentist may recommend more frequent appointments depending on your oral health.

No, teeth cleaning should not be painful. Our dental professionals use safe and pain-free techniques to ensure that your teeth cleaning appointment is a comfortable experience.

Yes, teeth cleaning can help prevent cavities by removing plaque and tartar from your teeth.

Dental implants are artificial tooth roots made of titanium that are surgically placed into the jawbone. They provide a sturdy foundation for the customized replacement teeth to match the shape and color of the natural teeth.

The ideal candidate for dental implants has good overall health, enough bone in their jaw to support the implant, and shows no signs of gum disease. It is best to consult with your dentist to determine if dental implants are right for you.

The procedure is a lengthy one. Although the process can vary depending on individual circumstances, it typically takes several months to complete. During the healing period, most patients may expect their dental implants to fully fuse to their jawbone within a few weeks to several months. Once this process is complete, an abutment is attached to the implant followed by the replacement tooth attached to the abutment.

With proper care and maintenance, dental implants can last a lifetime. Dental implants must be treated like natural teeth: regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups.

Children, like adults, can develop cavities and gum disease. Therefore, it's important for them to begin dental visits as soon as their teeth start to emerge, which can happen even before their first birthday. Although this may seem early, addressing oral health issues promptly is crucial to prevent them from worsening.

Yes, children can receive dental cleanings. Just like adults, kids are susceptible to cavities and gum disease, so they should have an oral exam and teeth cleaning twice a year. Dental visits can begin as soon as their teeth emerge, even before they turn one, to promptly address any potential issues. Early and regular dental visits help children become comfortable with dental care, benefiting them in the long run.

It's advisable to schedule dental cleanings every six months, as recommended by the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry for children as well. Tartar buildup can affect children's teeth just as it does adults', necessitating professional cleaning. If tartar accumulates below the gum line, teeth scaling may be needed to restore gum health. Regular dental cleanings for both you and your child are essential. Consider scheduling appointments during the back-to-school season, before your schedule becomes busier with school activities.

Clear aligner treatment duration varies depending upon your needs, but most treatments take around 12-18 months.

Clear aligners are designed for comfort, and you can easily remove them for eating and brushing.

Yes, you remove clear aligners when you eat, so you can still enjoy all your favorite foods.

Clear aligners may take some getting used to, but most people find that their speech is not significantly affected.

You typically visit the dentist every six to eight weeks during clear aligners treatment to check your progress and receive new aligners.

Dental sealants can last up to 10 years with proper care and maintenance.

No, getting dental sealants is a painless and non-invasive procedure.

First, the teeth are cleaned and dried. Then, a special gel is applied to the teeth to help the sealant bond to the tooth surface. Finally, the sealant is applied and hardened with a special light.

No, dental sealants are a safe and effective way to protect your teeth from decay.

During a fluoride treatment, a dental professional will apply a fluoride gel, foam, or varnish to your teeth with a brush, swab, or tray. The treatment is painless and only takes a few minutes.

Yes, fluoride treatment is safe when applied in the appropriate amount. Our dental professionals are trained to apply fluoride treatment safely and effectively.

The frequency of fluoride treatment depends on your individual needs and risk factors. Our dental professionals will evaluate your oral health and recommend the appropriate frequency of fluoride treatment.

Many dental insurance plans cover fluoride treatment. Our team will work with you to determine your coverage and help maximize your benefits.

No, fluoride treatment is beneficial for people of all ages and is especially important for individuals who are at higher risk of developing tooth decay.

The cost of a mouth guard depends on the type and level of customization required. At Tomball Smiles Dentistry , we offer affordable prices for high-quality, personalized mouth guards.

Although boil-and-bite mouth guards are readily available, they do not offer the same level of protection and customization as professionally fitted mouth guards. We recommend using a custom mouth guard from our dental office for maximum protection and comfort.

Mouth guards can wear out or get damaged over time. It's important to replace them every one to two years, or sooner if they show signs of wear or damage.

Yes, children can use mouth guards for protection during sports activities. We offer customized mouth guards for children that are designed to fit their smaller mouths.

Anyone can develop oral cancer, regardless of their age or lifestyle. However, certain factors such as smoking or using tobacco products, heavy alcohol consumption, a history of oral cancer in your family, and excessive sun exposure can increase your risk. If you have any of these risk factors or are experiencing any unusual symptoms in your mouth, such as sores, lumps, or patches, it's important to schedule an oral cancer screening with Tomball Smiles Dentistry

During an oral cancer screening with Tomball Smiles Dentistry , our dental professionals will examine your mouth, throat, and neck for any abnormalities or signs of cancer. This may include a visual inspection as well as the use of special tools to examine your mouth more closely. The exam is painless and usually only takes a few minutes.

Many dental insurance plans cover oral cancer screening as a preventative measure. The team at Tomball Smiles Dentistry can help you understand your coverage and answer any questions you may have about the cost of the exam.

There is no special preparation required for an oral cancer screening with Tomball Smiles Dentistry . However, we recommend that you avoid smoking or using tobacco products, drinking alcohol, or using mouthwash for at least 24 hours prior to your screening.

An oral cancer screening with Tomball Smiles Dentistry usually only takes a few minutes to complete. Our dental professionals will work quickly and efficiently to ensure you are comfortable and informed throughout the process.

No, teeth bonding is not a painful procedure. It is typically performed using a local anesthetic to ensure that the patient is comfortable throughout the procedure.

Teeth bonding can last anywhere from three to ten years depending on the patient's oral hygiene and care habits. Regular dental checkups and cleanings can help extend the life of teeth bonding.

Yes, you can eat and drink normally after teeth bonding. However, it is important to avoid chewing on hard objects as this can damage the bonding material.

The teeth bonding procedure typically takes about 30 to 60 minutes per tooth, depending on the complexity of the case.

Teeth bonding is considered a cosmetic dental procedure and is usually not covered by insurance. However, we offer affordable payment options to make the procedure more accessible for our patients.

The frequency of dental X-rays and imaging depends on your oral health and risk factors, but most people should get dental X-rays and imaging once a year.

Yes, dental X-rays and imaging are safe. The dose of radiation you are exposed to during the dental x-rays is extremely small. Our team at Tomball Smiles Dentistry takes all necessary precautions to minimize your exposure to radiation.

During the procedure, you will be asked to sit or lie down while the X-ray machine takes images of your mouth and teeth. The process is painless and takes only a few minutes.

The cost of the procedure varies depending on your insurance coverage and the type of imaging required. Our team will provide you with a detailed cost estimate before the procedure.

The cost of gum disease treatment can vary depending on the severity of the condition and the treatment plan recommended by the dentist. At Tomball Smiles Dentistry , we offer affordable and flexible payment options to help make the treatment more accessible to our patients.

Gum disease treatment may cause some discomfort during and after the procedure, but it can be managed with pain medication. Our experienced dentists use advanced, proven technology and latest techniques to ensure a painless and comfortable experience.

The length of gum disease treatment can vary depending on the severity of the condition and the type of treatment plan recommended by the dentist. In some cases, the treatment may be completed in a single visit, while in other cases, it may require multiple appointments. Our team will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that meets your needs and schedule.

Gum disease can be prevented by practicing good oral hygiene habits, such as brushing and flossing regularly, avoiding tobacco products, and scheduling regular dental check-ups and cleanings. Our team can provide guidance on the best ways to prevent gum disease and maintain optimal oral health.

When gum disease is left untreated, it can progress and lead to more serious dental problems, such as tooth loss, bone loss, and even systemic health issues. Our team can provide effective treatment options to help restore the health of your gums and prevent future problems.

A root canal treatment usually takes one or two appointments, depending on the complexity of the case.

Contrary to popular belief, in most cases a root canal treatment is not painful. With modern techniques and anesthesia, you'll feel little to no discomfort during the procedure.

You may experience some mild discomfort and sensitivity for a few days after the procedure, but most patients can resume their normal activities immediately.

Yes, sedation dentistry is safe when administered by a trained and experienced dental professional. Our team will review your medical history and work with you to determine the best type of sedation for your needs.

No, sedation dentistry helps you feel relaxed and comfortable, but you will still be awake and able to communicate with our team.

The length of its effects depends on the type of sedation used. Our team will provide you with detailed instructions and information about what to expect during and after your sedation.

You may have limited memory of the procedure, but most patients do not remember the details of the treatment.

Our team will provide you with detailed instructions on how to prepare for your sedation, including any dietary restrictions or other requirements before your appointment.

Veneers can be made from porcelain or resin composite materials.

Veneers typically last between 10 and 15 years, but this can vary depending on how well you take care of them.

Veneers are not permanent, but they are a long-term solution. If you decide to remove your veneers, your teeth may be slightly damaged, and you will need to consider an alternative treatment.

You should care for your veneers the same way you care for your natural teeth. Brush and floss regularly and avoid biting into hard objects that could damage them.

In some cases, veneers may be covered by dental insurance, but it depends on your plan. We will work with you to determine your coverage and help you maximize your benefits.

Teeth whitening is a cosmetic dental procedure that involves removing stains and discoloration from your teeth, resulting in a brighter and more attractive smile.

The length of teeth whitening treatment depends on the method used. In-office whitening usually takes about one hour, while take-home kits can take several weeks.

Yes, teeth whitening is a safe and effective treatment when performed by a qualified dental professional. However, some people may experience temporary tooth sensitivity or gum irritation after treatment.

The frequency of teeth whitening depends on your personal habits and preferences. In general, most people get their teeth whitened every 6 to 12 months to maintain the results.

The cost of teeth whitening varies depending on the method used and the dental office you choose. At Tomball Smiles Dentistry , we offer affordable teeth whitening options to fit your budget.

Wisdom teeth removal is a dental procedure to extract one or more of your third molars, located at the back of your mouth.

We take extra care to ensure our patients are comfortable throughout the procedure, using local anesthesia to minimize any discomfort.

Recovery time varies by individual, but most people can return to their normal routine within a few days to a week.

We recommend you avoid eating or drinking anything for a few hours before the procedure, and arranging for someone to drive you home afterward.

During the procedure, we'll numb the area with local anesthesia and carefully remove the tooth. You may feel some pressure, but you shouldn't feel any pain.

Yes. We recommend starting with soft foods and gradually adding harder foods to your diet.

You can clean your dentures with a soft-bristled brush and denture cleaner. Be sure to rinse them thoroughly to remove any remaining cleaning solution.

With proper care, dentures can last for many years. However, they may require occasional adjustments or replacements over time.

Dental insurance policies vary, but many plans do cover some or all of the cost of dentures.

We recommend removing your dentures at night to give your gums and mouth a break. This can also help to prevent oral health issues such as infections.

The procedure traditionally required two appointments, but with advancements in CAD/CAM technology, it can now often be completed in a single visit. This technology allows for the restoration to be milled and placed on the same day.

No, the procedure is not painful. We use local anesthesia to ensure your comfort.

With proper care, your dental inlay or onlay can last up to 15 years or more.

You should brush and floss your teeth regularly, avoid biting down on hard objects, and visit us for regular checkups and cleanings.

Most dental insurance plans cover a portion of the cost of dental onlays, and we offer financing options for those who need them.

Scaling and root planing is a non-surgical procedure that is typically performed under local anesthesia to ensure patient comfort. You may experience some sensitivity or discomfort after the procedure, but this can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.

The length of the procedure depends on the extent of the buildup and the severity of the gum disease. Typically, the procedure takes between one and two hours to complete.

Many dental insurance plans cover scaling and root planing as a necessary treatment for gum disease. Our team can work with you to determine your insurance coverage and provide information about financing options.

After the procedure, you may experience some sensitivity or discomfort, and your gums may be tender and swollen. The team at Tomball Smiles Dentistry will provide detailed post-operative instructions to help you manage any discomfort and promote healing.

The best way to prevent gum disease is to maintain good oral hygiene habits, including brushing and flossing regularly and visiting your dentist for routine check-ups and cleanings. Our team can provide personalized tips and recommendations to help you maintain healthy gums and teeth.

Bridges can last for 5-15 years or even longer with proper care.

The procedure for placing a tooth bridge is not painful, but some people may experience mild discomfort or sensitivity after the procedure.

You should brush and floss your tooth bridge regularly, just as you would your natural teeth.

Yes, a tooth bridge should not prevent you from eating normally.

The cost of a tooth bridge can vary depending on the type of bridge and other factors. We offer competitive pricing and will provide you with a detailed estimate before the procedure.

First, your dentist will numb the affected area with a local anesthetic. Next, they will use specialized tools to remove the damaged or infected tooth. Following the extraction, you’ll receive aftercare instructions to ensure a comfortable recovery.

We take every precaution to ensure a comfortable, pain-free tooth extraction experience for our patients. While there may be some discomfort or mild pain during the recovery process, most patients report little to no pain during the actual procedure.

The length of the tooth extraction process can vary depending on the complexity of the procedure and the patient's needs. In general, most tooth extractions take less than an hour to complete.

The recovery period can vary depending on a variety of factors, such as the complexity of the procedure, the patient's age and overall health, and how well they follow post-operative care instructions. Generally, it is normal to experience some discomfort, swelling, and bleeding in the first few days after the procedure. Most patients can expect to fully recover within one to two weeks.

It is important to avoid eating hard or chewy foods for the first few days, as this can irritate the extraction site and slow down the healing process. Instead, stick to soft foods that are easy to chew and swallow, such as soup, yogurt, or mashed potatoes. As you begin to feel more comfortable, you can gradually reintroduce solid foods into your diet, but be sure to follow your dentist's instructions and avoid foods that may be too hot or spicy.