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Frequently Asked Questions
Your Dental Questions, Answered
Get straightforward answers about checkups, hygiene, emergencies, implants, whitening, and wisdom teeth from the team at San Juan Family Dentistry. Can't find what you're looking for? Call us at (949) 240-6888 and we'll be glad to help.
Dental Checkups
How often should I get dental X-rays and imaging?
The right frequency depends on your oral health and risk factors, but most patients need dental X-rays and imaging about once a year.
Are dental X-rays and imaging safe?
Yes. The radiation dose from a dental X-ray is extremely small, and our team takes precautions to keep your exposure to a minimum.
Why are regular dental exams important?
Regular exams let our San Juan Capistrano dentist catch problems early, when they're easiest and least expensive to treat. During your visit, we screen for periodontal disease, TMJ disorder, oral cancer, enamel wear, aging dental work, tooth decay, and breathing or sleep disorders. Finding issues early means more conservative treatment and helps preserve your healthy tooth structure.
What is oral cancer screening?
It's a visual and physical exam of your mouth to check for signs of oral cancer, such as red or white patches, sores, or lumps.
How much does a dental X-ray or imaging procedure cost?
Cost varies depending on your insurance coverage and the type of imaging needed. We'll give you a detailed estimate before any procedure.
Hygiene and Cleanings
How often should I have teeth cleaning appointments?
The American Dental Association recommends teeth cleanings every six months for most people, though your dentist in San Juan Capistrano may suggest more frequent visits depending on your oral health.
How can I maintain good oral hygiene at home between checkups?
Brush twice a day for two minutes with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, waiting about 30 minutes after eating so you aren't brushing softened enamel. Floss daily using a gentle C-shape motion to clear plaque and food particles between teeth. Limit sugary snacks and drinks, wear a mouthguard during sports, and avoid using your teeth to open packages or bottles.
Is teeth cleaning painful?
No. Our dental professionals use safe, pain-free techniques so your cleaning appointment is a comfortable experience.
What's the difference between a regular cleaning and a deep cleaning?
A regular cleaning removes plaque and tartar above the gumline. A deep cleaning, also called scaling and root planing, is needed when buildup has formed below the gumline due to gum disease, and involves a more thorough cleaning of the tooth roots.
Is flossing really necessary?
Yes. Flossing clears plaque and food particles from between your teeth that a toothbrush can't reach, which is essential for preventing cavities and gum disease.
What are some signs I might need to come in for a cleaning sooner?
Consider scheduling sooner if it's been more than six months since your last cleaning, you notice tooth sensitivity, you can see plaque or tartar on your teeth, your gums bleed when you brush or floss, or you have persistent bad breath.
Emergency Dentistry
What is the most common dental emergency?
Toothaches are the most common dental emergency, often caused by tooth decay, cracks, infections, or gum disease. Lost fillings or crowns, chipped teeth, and knocked-out teeth are also common.
How can I prevent dental emergencies?
Maintain good oral hygiene, wear a mouthguard during contact sports, and avoid hard or sticky foods.
How quickly can I be seen for a dental emergency?
We do our best to see emergency patients as soon as possible, often the same day. Call our office right away at (949) 240-6888 for the quickest care.
What should I do if my tooth is knocked out?
Gently rinse the tooth without scrubbing it, and try to reinsert it if you can, or keep it in milk. Contact us immediately, since time is critical to saving the tooth.
What are the signs of an abscessed tooth?
An abscessed tooth is a serious infection. Watch for severe, throbbing pain, swelling in your face or gums, sensitivity to hot or cold, fever, and a bad taste in your mouth. This needs immediate dental attention.
Does emergency dental treatment cost more?
No. We never charge patients extra for emergency treatment — you'll pay our regular costs for the care you need.
Dental Implants
Are dental implants safe?
Yes. Implants are biocompatible and hypoallergenic, which makes them naturally well-tolerated by your bone tissue.
What are same-day dental implants?
Same-day implants, also called immediate load implants, let you receive a temporary tooth replacement on the same day the implant is placed.
Am I a candidate for same-day implants?
Not everyone is. You need sufficient bone density and healthy gums. We'll assess your situation to determine whether same-day implants are a good option for you.
How long do dental implants last?
A well-maintained implant can last for the rest of your life.
How do I care for my dental implants?
Brush and floss your implants just like your natural teeth, using a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste. Keep up with regular check-ups and cleanings so we can monitor your implant and surrounding tissue, maintain a healthy diet, avoid hard or sticky foods, and avoid smoking, which can impair healing and increase the risk of implant failure.
How much do dental implants cost in San Juan Capistrano?
Cost varies depending on your individual needs and treatment plan, including how many implants you need and whether bone grafting is required. We offer competitive pricing and flexible financing, and we'll work with you to make the most of your dental insurance benefits.
Professional Teeth Whitening
Should I have my teeth cleaned before whitening them?
Yes. Having a dental cleaning right before your whitening treatment helps the whitening gel target deep stains more effectively.
Is teeth whitening safe?
Yes, when performed by a qualified dental professional. Some patients experience temporary tooth sensitivity or gum irritation after treatment.
What causes tooth stains?
Everyday habits like drinking coffee, tea, or red wine, smoking cigarettes, and taking certain medications can gradually stain your teeth, since teeth absorb these stains over time.
How can I keep my smile white?
Brush twice daily, floss daily, and rinse your mouth after coffee, tea, or other dark liquids. Keep up with cleanings every six months, and plan on a whitening touch-up every six months to a year, or every three to four months if you're a heavy coffee or tea drinker.
How often should I get my teeth whitened?
Most people get their teeth whitened every 6 to 12 months to maintain their results.
How much does teeth whitening cost?
We offer affordable teeth whitening options to fit a range of budgets. Ask our team for current pricing.
Wisdom Teeth
What is wisdom teeth removal?
Wisdom teeth removal is a dental procedure to extract one or more of your third molars, located at the very back of your mouth.
What age is wisdom tooth removal needed?
Most people have their wisdom teeth removed during high school or college, though the teeth can keep developing until nearly age 30. We generally recommend removal as soon as side effects like infection, impaction, or pain develop, before they damage neighboring healthy teeth. We take periodic X-rays to track wisdom tooth development and identify the best time for removal.
What does "impacted" mean?
Impacted wisdom teeth haven't been able to erupt fully through the gums. It's a very common condition and the number one reason for wisdom tooth extraction.
Is wisdom teeth removal painful?
We take special steps to keep patients comfortable, including numbing and sedation medications, and we provide post-procedure medication and instructions for pain relief.
How can I prepare for wisdom teeth removal?
Avoid eating or drinking for a few hours before the procedure, and arrange for someone to drive you home afterward.
What should I expect during the procedure?
We numb the area with local anesthesia and carefully remove the tooth. You may feel some pressure, but you shouldn't feel any pain.
Ready when you are
San Juan Family Dentistry welcomes patients from San Juan Capistrano, Dana Point, Capistrano Beach and San Clemente. Call us or request an appointment online.
