Frequently Asked Dental Questions – Larchmont Village, CA
Your Questions Answered
We know you have questions. We know you want to learn more about how we address certain issues and procedures. We know you care about your oral health and want to make the right decision about your oral healthcare provider. This is why we have provided a list of frequently asked questions below. Here, you will receive the answers from our qualified team of experts who are poised to offer clarity and transparency so that you have a clearer understanding when it comes to dentistry. If you don’t see your question listed, please contact our office.
Why is it necessary to keep six-month checkups and cleanings?
Six-month dental checkups and cleanings are vital if you want to ensure the future of your smile. At-home brushing, flossing, and rinsing are important, but they are not enough to avoid some of the most common oral health problems. Using specialized instruments, our team at Geller Dentistry can reach crevices and other areas that often trap bacteria and plaque and can lead to cavities, tooth decay, and gum disease.
Does it hurt to receive dental implants?
No, the surgical placement of your dental implants will not cause any pain, as you will first receive local anesthesia to keep you numb and pain-free. Once the anesthesia wears off, however, you may feel some discomfort and soreness. Fortunately, you can take over-the-counter pain relievers to minimize the pain and help you to feel more at ease. It is also possible that Dr. Geller may prescribe a medication you can take.
Will you see my child?
Yes, we are a family dental practice that will see patients as young as two years old. Dr. Garcia-Geller is a trained general dentist who has the skill and expertise to take care of young smiles that are growing and developing with each passing day. Whether it is performing a thorough checkup and cleaning, administering fluoride treatment, or discussing other preventive solutions to keep their teeth and gums looking and feeling their best, we will closely monitor their smiles as they enter each new phase of life.
What makes professional teeth whitening better than store-bought options?
Professional teeth whitening uses stronger, higher-grade bleaching agents that can penetrate beyond the enamel, reaching those deep-down stains that are so hard to eliminate. Store-bought kits are often less effective because they do not contain the same type of whitening gel that is strong enough to remove tooth stains. While they may cause surface discoloration to dissipate, they often leave lackluster results.
My tooth is no longer in pain. Should I still see an emergency dentist?
Yes. Even if you have a toothache that is no longer causing you pain, it is recommended that you still keep your appointment with your emergency dentist near Hancock Park. The reason is that pain is only one indicator that there is a problem. Other symptoms can still be evident. Also, if a tooth is no longer experiencing discomfort, that could mean an even bigger issue is at hand – one that our team needs to address as soon as possible.
Will you accept my dental insurance?
Dr. Garcia-Geller is in-network with 5-10 PPO dental insurance plans, but Dr. Geller is out of network because of his position as a prosthodontist. It is our belief, though, that our patients should be provided options when it comes to paying for treatment, which is why we will work to maximize any available benefits you might have as well as discuss alternative options such as CareCredit to help lower out-of-pocket expense.