Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions at Dentistry By Design of Spring Hill. Explore our FAQs about treatments, insurance, appointments, and what to expect during your visit.

Dental Checkups

What happens during my first dental checkup?

Your first checkup includes a complete exam, professional cleaning, digital X-rays, and an oral cancer screening. We’ll discuss any concerns and help you understand your oral health.

How long does a dental checkup take?

Most checkups take about 60 minutes. If it’s your first visit, we’ll take a bit more time to review your medical history and answer any questions you have.

How often should I get a dental checkup?

It’s generally recommended to visit the dentist every six months for regular checkups. If you have specific concerns, we may recommend more frequent visits.

Will my insurance cover my dental checkup?

Most dental insurance plans cover preventive care, including checkups. We work with many providers, including Delta, BCBS, Cigna, and United Healthcare, to help you maximize your benefits.

Do you see children for dental checkups?

Yes, we provide dental care for patients of all ages, including children. We focus on making dental visits positive and stress-free for younger patients.

What if you find a problem during my checkup?

If we identify any issues, we’ll discuss your options and help you decide on the best course of action. Whether it’s a filling, crown, or more extensive treatment, we’re here to guide you.

Is parking available at your office?

Yes, we offer free parking conveniently located next to our office, just steps away from the Post Office and across from City Hall.

Do you offer emergency dental services?

Yes, we offer same-day emergency dental care. If you’re experiencing a dental emergency, call us right away, and we’ll make sure you receive prompt treatment.

What payment options do you offer?

We accept cash, checks, credit cards, CareCredit, and offer an in-house membership plan for patients who need additional flexibility. We also work with most major insurance plans.

Do you offer sedation options?

Yes, we offer several sedation options, including oral sedation and laughing gas, to ensure your comfort during any procedures.

Clear Aligners

How long does treatment with clear aligners take?

Most patients complete treatment in 12-18 months, but the exact timeline depends on your individual needs.

Are clear aligners comfortable?

Yes! Clear aligners are smooth and comfortable, though you might feel some mild pressure when starting a new set.

How much do clear aligners cost?

The cost varies depending on your specific treatment plan. We offer flexible payment options and financing plans to help make it affordable for you.

Can I eat with my aligners in?

You’ll need to remove your aligners to eat or drink anything other than water. This makes it easier to enjoy your meals without worrying about your aligners.

How do I clean my aligners?

Simply clean your aligners daily with lukewarm water and mild soap. Specialized aligner cleaners are also available for deeper cleaning.

Will my speech be affected by the aligners?

Most people experience minimal changes in speech that go away after a few days of wearing the aligners.

How often will I need appointments?

We typically schedule check-ins every 6-8 weeks to monitor your progress and provide you with new aligners.

Are clear aligners covered by insurance?

Many insurance plans offer coverage for orthodontic treatments, including clear aligners. Our team can help you navigate your benefits and maximize coverage.

What happens after treatment?

After completing your treatment, you’ll wear retainers to keep your teeth in place. We’ll guide you through proper retainer care and usage.

Am I a good candidate for clear aligners?

Clear aligners work for most patients with mild to moderate orthodontic issues. Schedule a consultation, and we’ll determine if they’re right for you!

Veneers

How long do veneers last?

With proper care, porcelain veneers can last 10-15 years or longer, making them a great long-term investment.

Are veneers permanent?

Yes, veneers are permanent since a small amount of enamel is removed during the process.

Will veneers look natural?

Absolutely! We customize each veneer to match your natural teeth in color, translucency, and shine, creating a seamless and beautiful smile.

Is the procedure painful?

Most patients experience minimal discomfort. We offer sedation options for added comfort during the procedure.

How many appointments will I need?

Typically, the veneer process requires 2-3 visits over a few weeks, giving you plenty of time to be involved in the design process.

Can I eat normally with veneers?

Yes, once placed, veneers are durable and allow you to eat most foods without restrictions, though it’s always best to avoid habits like chewing hard objects.

How do I care for my veneers?

Just like your natural teeth! Brush regularly, floss, and visit us for routine cleanings. Avoid habits like nail-biting or chewing ice that could damage your veneers.

Are veneers covered by insurance?

Since veneers are a cosmetic treatment, they are usually not covered by insurance. However, we offer financing options to help make treatment more affordable.

How many veneers will I need?

The number of veneers depends on your smile goals. Some people get just 4-8 veneers, while others may need 10-12 to achieve their desired look.

What happens if a veneer breaks?

While rare, a damaged veneer can usually be replaced individually without needing to redo the entire set.

Dental Implants

How long do dental implants last?

With proper care and maintenance, dental implants can last a lifetime. The success rate for implants is over 95% when maintained properly.

Is the dental implant procedure painful?

We ensure your comfort throughout the procedure with advanced sedation options. Most patients report minimal discomfort during recovery.

How long does the implant process take?

The full process typically takes 3-6 months, depending on your individual healing time and treatment plan.

Will insurance cover my dental implants?

Many dental insurance plans provide partial coverage for implants. Our team will work with you to maximize your benefits and explore financing options.

Can I get implants if I have bone loss?

Yes, we offer bone grafting procedures to build up adequate bone structure for successful implant placement.

How do I care for my dental implants?

Dental implants require the same care as natural teeth: regular brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings.

Are dental implants safe?

Yes, dental implants have been safely used for over 50 years and are considered the gold standard in tooth replacement.

Can implants replace all of my missing teeth?

Yes, we offer solutions ranging from single tooth replacement to full mouth restoration using our All-on-X technique.

What makes Dentistry By Design different for implant treatment?

Dr. Robinette is a Diplomate of the International Congress of Oral Implantology, and our team combines extensive experience with advanced technology to provide comprehensive care under one roof.

When can I return to work after implant surgery?

Most patients return to work within 1-2 days after the procedure, though recovery times can vary depending on the complexity of the treatment.

Teeth Whitening

How long does professional teeth whitening take?

The treatment typically takes 60-90 minutes, depending on your specific whitening goals.

Is professional teeth whitening safe?

Yes, professional whitening is completely safe when performed by trained dental professionals.

How long will the results last?

With proper care, the results can last anywhere from 6-12 months, depending on your lifestyle and oral hygiene habits.

Will whitening make my teeth sensitive?

Some patients may experience mild sensitivity, but it usually subsides within 24-48 hours.

Can all stains be removed?

Most stains respond well to whitening, but deep internal stains may require alternative treatments, which we can discuss during your consultation.

How white will my teeth get?

Most patients see their teeth brighten by several shades, with results varying based on individual factors.

Is whitening covered by insurance?

Since whitening is a cosmetic treatment, it’s typically not covered by insurance. However, we offer flexible payment options to make the treatment more affordable.

How can I keep my teeth white after treatment?

To maintain your results, avoid staining foods and drinks, follow a good oral hygiene routine, and consider occasional touch-up treatments.

Can I whiten my teeth if I have dental work?

Existing dental work, such as crowns or veneers, won’t respond to whitening. We can discuss options to ensure a consistent, uniform smile.

What makes professional whitening better than over-the-counter products?

Professional whitening uses stronger, more effective whitening agents, custom-fitted trays, and expert supervision, ensuring safer, faster, and longer-lasting results.

Emergency Dentistry

What constitutes a dental emergency?

A dental emergency includes any situation causing severe pain, bleeding, or trauma to your teeth or gums, such as knocked-out teeth, severe toothaches, broken teeth, or dental infections.

Do you offer same-day emergency appointments?

Yes, we prioritize emergency cases and will fit you into our schedule as soon as possible to provide the care you need.

What payment options do you offer for emergency care?

We accept most major insurance plans, CareCredit, Cherry, credit cards, and offer flexible payment options to ensure you receive the care you need.

What should I do if my tooth gets knocked out?

Keep the tooth moist by placing it back in the socket or storing it in milk, and contact us immediately. Time is crucial for saving a knocked-out tooth.

Do you provide sedation for emergency procedures?

Yes, we offer sedation options like oral sedation and nitrous oxide (laughing gas) to ensure your comfort during emergency treatment.

What if I have a dental emergency after hours?

Contact our office immediately. We provide emergency care instructions and will schedule you for the earliest available appointment.

Can I prevent dental emergencies?

While some accidents are unavoidable, regular dental check-ups, wearing protective gear during sports, and avoiding habits like chewing hard objects can help prevent many dental emergencies.

Will my insurance cover emergency dental care?

Many dental insurance plans provide coverage for emergency care. Our team will help you navigate your benefits and maximize your coverage.

How long will my emergency appointment take?

The duration varies depending on the specific situation, but we prioritize emergency cases and work efficiently to address your needs.

What if I need follow-up care after my emergency treatment?

We’ll schedule any necessary follow-up appointments and provide clear instructions for at-home care to ensure proper healing and a smooth recovery.

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