Dental FAQs in Encinitas, CA

During your visit, our team will examine your teeth, gums and mouth for signs of decay or disease. We will clean your teeth to remove plaque and tartar buildup and may offer preventive care like fluoride or sealants if needed. Most appointments take under an hour.

Most patients should schedule a dental visit every six months for routine exams and cleanings. However, those with certain conditions may benefit from more frequent visits. Regular checkups help prevent larger problems and support long-term oral health.

Dental emergencies include severe tooth pain, broken or knocked-out teeth, abscesses, and injuries to the mouth or jaw. If you are unsure, call our office immediately. Prompt treatment can reduce complications and protect your oral health.

Yes, composite fillings are a safe and durable option for treating cavities. They are tooth-colored, blend naturally with your smile and do not contain metal. They are also bonded directly to the tooth structure, preserving more of your natural enamel.

Dental bonding repairs minor imperfections like chips, cracks, small gaps or discolored areas on teeth. It is a quick, painless procedure where a tooth-colored resin is applied, shaped and hardened with a special light to restore your tooth’s appearance.

Sealants are thin coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of back teeth to protect against cavities. They are especially effective for children and teens because they act as a barrier against food particles and plaque, which are hard to remove from deep grooves.

Fluoride strengthens tooth enamel and helps prevent cavities by making teeth more resistant to acid attacks. It is especially beneficial for children and those at higher risk of decay. Professional fluoride applications offer stronger protection than over-the-counter products.

Night guards are custom-made appliances worn while sleeping to protect against teeth grinding or clenching, also known as bruxism. They help prevent wear, reduce jaw pain and protect dental restorations. Patients with jaw discomfort or worn teeth often benefit from them.

Oral cancer screenings help detect early signs of cancer or precancerous conditions in the mouth. Early detection significantly increases the chances of successful treatment. Screenings are quick, painless and part of your routine dental exam.

Root canal therapy treats infected or damaged tooth pulp. The procedure involves removing the pulp, cleaning and sealing the inside of the tooth. It relieves pain, saves your natural tooth and can prevent the need for extraction when treated early.

Senior dentistry focuses on the unique oral health needs of older adults. This includes managing dry mouth, restoring missing teeth, treating gum disease and adjusting dentures. Our care helps seniors maintain comfort, function and quality of life.

Wearing a custom mouthguard helps protect your teeth, gums and jaw during contact sports. It reduces the risk of broken teeth, lacerations and concussions. Custom mouthguards offer a better fit and comfort than store-bought versions.

Traditional braces use metal brackets and wires to shift teeth. Invisalign uses a series of clear, removable aligners. Both are effective, but Invisalign offers a more discreet option for many patients. Your dentist will recommend the best approach for your case.

LANAP therapy is a laser-assisted treatment for gum disease. It removes bacteria and diseased tissue with less discomfort and promotes faster healing. This advanced procedure is minimally invasive and often helps preserve more of your natural gum and bone structure.

Soft tissue grafting treats gum recession and improves the appearance of your smile. It can help reduce sensitivity, cover exposed roots and prevent further gum damage. This procedure restores gum health and protects the supporting structures of your teeth.

Crowns are used to restore damaged, worn or weakened teeth. They fully cover the tooth to protect and strengthen it while improving its shape and appearance. Crowns are often placed after root canals, large fillings or fractures.

Dental bridges replace one or more missing teeth by anchoring to adjacent teeth or implants. They restore your bite, prevent shifting and help maintain your facial shape. Bridges are a reliable and aesthetic way to regain your smile.

Dental implants are titanium posts placed in the jawbone to support crowns, bridges or dentures. They function like natural tooth roots, offering strong, long-lasting results. Implants improve chewing, speech and appearance and help preserve bone in the jaw.

Yes, modern dentures are more comfortable, natural-looking and functional than ever. Whether full or partial, they help restore your ability to eat, speak and smile confidently. Dentures are also custom-fitted to ensure a secure and stable fit.

Our dental office combines advanced technology with compassionate care. We offer a wide range of services under one roof to serve patients of all ages. From preventive care to restorative solutions, our dentist is committed to helping you achieve a healthy, confident smile.