FAQ

With proper care, dental crowns and bridges can last many years. They typically last anywhere from 5-15 years, and with meticulous hygiene and regular dental checkups, even longer.

Our crowns and bridges are designed to match the color and appearance of your natural teeth, making them virtually unnoticeable.

We prioritize your comfort. The procedure for placing crowns and bridges is typically done with anesthesia, making it a pain-free experience.

Yes, after a short adjustment period, you should be able to eat normally with crowns and bridges.

Care for crowns and bridges as you would your natural teeth, with regular brushing, flossing, and visits to Pine Avenue Smiles for checkups and cleanings.

Many dental insurance plans contribute toward the cost of crowns and bridges. We'll help you understand your benefits and financing options.

Typically, it takes two visits: the first to prepare the teeth and place a temporary crown or bridge, and the second to place the permanent fixture.

Alternatives may include fillings, implants, or partial dentures, depending on the case. We'll discuss the best options for your oral health and preferences.

Traditional bridges are fixed and cannot be removed. Removable bridges are also available, depending on your needs.

Crowns and bridges can be made from porcelain, ceramic, gold, metal alloys, or a combination of materials, tailored to the requirements of your smile. We use porcelain because it looks natural and lasts many years.

Dental checkups are vital for maintaining good oral hygiene. They allow dentists to diagnose and treat problems early, prevent new issues from developing, and keep your teeth and gums healthy.

It is recommended that both adults and children visit the dentist every six months for a checkup and cleaning. Some individuals with specific dental issues may need to visit more frequently.

A professional cleaning involves removing plaque and tartar buildup, polishing your teeth, and flossing. This process helps prevent cavities, gingivitis, and periodontal disease.

Digital X-rays are safe and expose patients to significantly less radiation than traditional X-rays. They are a crucial diagnostic tool that helps dentists detect issues that are not visible during a regular examination.

Oral cancer screening is a preventive measure to detect cancerous and precancerous conditions early when they are more easily treatable. Early detection can significantly increase the chances of successful treatment.

Yes, regular dental checkups and cleanings can significantly help in preventing bad breath by removing the plaque and tartar that contribute to odor-causing bacteria in the mouth.

To prepare for a dental checkup, continue to follow good oral hygiene practices, such as brushing and flossing. Additionally, make a list of any questions or concerns you may have for your dentist, including any sensitivity or pain you're experiencing.

Absolutely. During your dental checkup, your gums will be evaluated for any signs of gum disease. Early detection and treatment are crucial for maintaining healthy gums and preventing more serious conditions.

At Pine Avenue Smiles, we understand dental anxiety and strive to create a comfortable and reassuring environment. We offer various accommodations such as music, blankets, and pillows to help ease anxiety, and our caring team is always here to support and guide you through every step of your visit.

Yes, Pine Avenue Smiles accepts most major dental insurance plans for checkups. We recommend checking with our office staff to confirm if your specific plan is accepted and understand the coverage details.

We believe everyone deserves access to quality dental care. For those without insurance, Pine Avenue Smiles offers various payment options, including cash, personal checks, and major credit cards. We also provide financing options through services like CareCredit, SunBit, and Denefits to make dental care more manageable.

Financing at Pine Avenue Smiles is designed to spread the cost of dental care over time with manageable monthly payments. After a simple application process, you can receive immediate approval to help cover the cost of your checkups and any other dental treatments.

With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime.

Most patients report that the discomfort is minimal, especially when compared to tooth extraction, and can be managed with standard pain relief medication.

Yes, dental implants are designed to look, feel, and function like your natural teeth. They are custom-made to match the color and shape of your existing teeth, providing a seamless appearance.

Dental implants are versatile and can be used to replace a single tooth, multiple teeth, or a full set. Your treatment will be tailored to meet your specific needs, whether that's a single implant or an implant-supported bridge.

The process can vary from a few months to over half a year, depending on the individual case, the number of implants, and the health of your jawbone. The process includes the initial consultation, the implantation procedure, and the healing period before the final crown can be placed.

Most health conditions don't disqualify you from getting dental implants, but some, like uncontrolled diabetes or certain heart conditions, may require special consideration. It's essential to disclose your full medical history during the consultation.

Dental implants require the same maintenance as natural teeth, including brushing twice daily, flossing once a day, and regular dental check-ups and cleanings to ensure they remain in good condition and to monitor your overall oral health.

Dental implants have a success rate of up to 98%, depending on where in the jaw they are placed.

Coverage varies by provider, but our staff at Pine Avenue Smile will help you understand your benefits and financing options.

Recovery times vary, but most patients can resume normal activities the following day, with dietary adjustments as the site heals.

Most people who are healthy enough to undergo a routine dental extraction or oral surgery can be considered for implants.

Yes, they stimulate bone growth and prevent bone loss associated with missing teeth.

Any oral health issue that requires immediate attention to relieve severe pain, stop ongoing tissue bleeding, or save a tooth is considered a dental emergency. This includes severe toothaches, knocked-out teeth, loose or lost fillings, and abscesses. If you're uncertain whether your situation is an emergency, call Pine Avenue Smiles for guidance.

Absolutely! Pine Avenue Smiles in Oldsmar, FL, offers same-day emergency appointments to address your urgent dental needs. We are equipped to handle various dental emergencies promptly and efficiently.

Time is critical in saving a knocked-out tooth. Pick the tooth up by the crown (top part), rinse it without scrubbing, and try to reinsert it into the socket. If that's not possible, keep it moist in milk and call us immediately for a same-day emergency appointment.

As soon as possible. Getting to Pine Avenue Smiles within 30 minutes can make the difference between saving or losing a tooth. Swift action is also essential to prevent infection or further damage to your teeth and gums.

Yes, delaying treatment for a dental emergency can lead to increased pain, a higher risk of infection, and the need for more complex and expensive treatment later on. Contact Pine Avenue Smiles immediately for prompt, professional care.

Yes, providing relief from pain and discomfort is a primary concern during any dental emergency. We utilize various methods to ensure your comfort during emergency treatment.

Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage discomfort, and applying a cold compress can reduce swelling. Remember, these are temporary measures until our emergency dental care team can see you.

Bleeding gums can be a sign of gum disease and should be evaluated by a dentist, especially if it's severe or doesn't stop. Call us for an urgent consultation.

In the event of a dental emergency, call us as soon as possible. Our staff will provide you with instructions and arrange for your immediate care.

Pine Avenue Smiles combines the convenience of same-day emergency appointments with the care of a family-owned practice. We are committed to providing Oldsmar residents with professional, attentive, and non-corporate dental care in emergencies and beyond.

Treatment times vary but generally range from 12 to 18 months, potentially shorter than traditional braces.

Invisalign aligners are designed for comfort. While there may be some pressure when starting a new aligner, it's less painful than traditional braces.

Yes, Invisalign can correct most bite issues, including overbites, underbites, and crossbites.

For best results, wear your aligners for 20 to 22 hours per day, removing them only to eat, brush, and floss.

Some people may notice a slight change in speech, such as a lisp, when they first begin wearing Invisalign, but this typically resolves quickly as you get used to them.

Clean your aligners with a soft brush and lukewarm water, or use Invisalign cleaning crystals.

It's recommended to remove your aligners while eating to avoid damaging them.

Invisalign is suitable for teenagers and adults. For younger patients, Invisalign Teen is an option tailored to growing individuals.

The cost of Invisalign is comparable to traditional braces and varies based on individual needs. We offer flexible financing options to fit your budget.

Many dental insurance plans cover Invisalign just as they would traditional braces. Our office can help with insurance queries.

Professional teeth whitening services at Pine Avenue Smile, like Zoom! and Opalescence, are administered by experienced dental professionals, ensuring safety, personalized care, and results that are more immediate and long-lasting compared to over-the-counter kits.

Safety is our priority at Pine Avenue Smile. While teeth whitening is safe for most people, we conduct a thorough assessment to ensure it's suitable for you, especially if you have sensitive teeth, gum disease, or dental restorations.

The Zoom! whitening treatment can brighten your teeth in just about an hour at our office. Opalescence is a take-home treatment with a flexible duration, based on your unique smile and whitening goals.

Some patients may experience temporary sensitivity after whitening treatments. Pine Avenue Smile offers personalized care to minimize discomfort and can recommend solutions for sensitive teeth.

We offer competitive pricing for our teeth whitening services, with flexible financing options to ensure you can achieve your dream smile without financial stress. Contact us for a personalized quote.

Pine Avenue Smile provides detailed aftercare instructions to help extend the longevity of your whitening results, including dietary recommendations and oral hygiene tips.

Post-whitening, it's best to avoid food and drinks with high pigment levels—like coffee, tea, red wine, and berries—for at least 48 hours to prevent re-staining.

The frequency of whitening treatments varies per individual. Pine Avenue Smile evaluates your dental health and aesthetic goals to recommend a safe and effective whitening schedule.

Teeth whitening treatments primarily affect natural tooth enamel. We'll assess your situation to ensure that your results look uniform and natural, providing options that best suit your dental work.

Zoom! is an in-office treatment for fast results, while Opalescence is a customized take-home kit for convenience. Both are professional-grade, but your choice may depend on your lifestyle and whitening preferences.