FAQ's
Frequently Asked Questions
If You Have Questions? We've Got Answers!
CLEARPATH ALIGNERS
Clear aligners are orthodontic devices made from transparent plastic that are used to straighten
teeth. They are custom-made to fit snugly over your teeth and gradually shift them into the desired
position.
Clear aligners work by applying gentle, controlled force to your teeth, gradually moving them into
alignment. You wear a series of aligners, each one making slight adjustments to tooth position, until
the final desired position is achieved.
For best results, you should wear your aligners for 20-22 hours a day, removing them only to eat,
drink, brush, and floss.
METAL BRACES
Metal braces are orthodontic devices made of high-grade stainless steel that are used to correct
misaligned teeth and bite issues. They consist of brackets bonded to the teeth and connected by a
wire.
Metal braces work by applying continuous pressure to your teeth, gradually moving them into the
correct position. The brackets and wires are periodically adjusted by your orthodontist to guide the
teeth into alignment.
The duration of treatment varies depending on the complexity of the case. On average, treatment
with metal braces lasts between 18 months to 3 years. Your orthodontist will provide a more specific
timeline based on your individual needs.
SPACE MAINTAINERS
A space maintainer is an orthodontic device used to hold open the space left by a prematurely lost
baby tooth. It ensures that the permanent tooth has enough space to grow in properly.
If a baby tooth is lost too early, the adjacent teeth may shift into the empty space, causing alignment
issues for the incoming permanent tooth. A space maintainer prevents this by keeping the space
open.
A space maintainer is custom-made to fit your child’s mouth and is attached to the teeth adjacent to
the empty space. It holds the space open until the permanent tooth erupts.
TOOTH EXTRACTIONS
Tooth extractions are necessary for various reasons, including severe tooth decay, infection, crowding,
trauma, gum disease, or impacted teeth (such as wisdom teeth).
The procedure itself is not painful as it is performed under local anesthesia, which numbs the area.
You may feel pressure during the extraction. After the anesthesia wears off, some discomfort and
swelling are normal, but this can be managed with pain relievers and proper aftercare.
Your dentist will provide specific instructions, but general preparation includes avoiding eating or
drinking for a few hours before the procedure if sedation is used, and arranging for transportation if
you’ll be sedated. Inform your dentist of any medications you are taking and any medical conditions
you have.
TEETH WHITENING
Teeth whitening is a cosmetic dental procedure that lightens teeth and helps to remove stains and
discoloration. It is one of the most popular dental treatments because it can significantly improve the
appearance of your smile.
Tooth discoloration can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
Consumption of staining foods and beverages (e.g., coffee, tea, red wine, and berries)
Tobacco use
Poor dental hygiene
Aging
Certain medications
Trauma to the teeth
Fluorosis (excessive fluoride exposure during tooth development)
The results of teeth whitening can last from several months to a few years, depending on your oral
hygiene and lifestyle habits. Avoiding staining foods and beverages and maintaining good oral hygiene
can help prolong the results.
INVISIBLE RETAINERS
A retainer is a custom-made dental appliance designed to hold your teeth in their new position after
braces or other orthodontic treatments have been removed. They help maintain the alignment of
your teeth and prevent them from shifting back to their original position.
After orthodontic treatment, teeth have a natural tendency to shift back to their original position.
Wearing a retainer helps to stabilize the teeth in their new alignment until the surrounding bone and
tissues have adapted to the new position.
Initially, you may be instructed to wear your retainer full-time (except when eating, drinking, or
brushing your teeth) for a specified period, typically a few months. After that, you may transition to
wearing it only at night. Your orthodontist will provide specific instructions based on your individual
needs.
DENTAL IMPLANTS
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots made of titanium that provide a permanent base for fixed or
removable replacement teeth. They are designed to blend in with your natural teeth and restore the
function and appearance of your smile.
Good candidates for dental implants are individuals with healthy gums and sufficient bone density to
support the implant. Ideal candidates should also be committed to maintaining good oral hygiene and
regular dental visits. Your dentist will evaluate your specific situation to determine if dental implants
are right for you.
With proper care and maintenance, dental implants can last a lifetime. The crown, bridge, or
denture attached to the implant may need to be replaced due to normal wear and tear, but
the implant itself is designed to be a permanent solution.
SCALING & POLISHING
Scaling and polishing is a dental procedure that involves removing plaque, tartar (calculus),
and stains from the surfaces of your teeth. Scaling refers to the removal of these deposits
from the teeth and gum line, while polishing smooths and shines the teeth to make them look
cleaner and brighter.
It is generally recommended to have your teeth professionally scaled and polished every six months.
However, your dentist may recommend more frequent cleanings if you have a history of gum disease
or other dental issues.
Most patients experience little to no discomfort during the scaling and polishing procedure. However,
if you have sensitive teeth or gums, your dentist can use a local anesthetic or numbing gel to minimize
any discomfort.
FILLING/RESTORATIONS
Fillings are necessary to repair cavities caused by tooth decay, restore cracked or broken teeth, and
prevent further decay or damage. They help restore the tooth’s shape and function, allowing you to
bite and chew properly.
The longevity of a filling depends on the material used and how well it is cared for. Amalgam fillings
can last 10-15 years or more, composite fillings typically last 5-7 years, and gold or porcelain fillings
can last 15 years or longer.
The procedure is usually painless as local anesthesia is used to numb the area. You may experience
some sensitivity or discomfort after the anesthesia wears off, but this typically subsides within a few
days.
DENTAL VENEERS
Dental veneers are thin, custom-made shells of tooth-colored materials (porcelain or composite resin) designed to cover the front surface of teeth to improve their appearance. They are bonded to the
front of the teeth, changing their color, shape, size, or length.
With proper care, porcelain veneers can last 10-15 years or longer, while composite resin veneers typically last 5-7 years. Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene practices can help prolong the
lifespan of your veneers.
Porcelain veneers are considered a permanent treatment because a small amount of enamel is
removed from your teeth. Composite veneers can sometimes be removed or replaced, but it is still a
significant commitment. It’s important to discuss all options and implications with your dentist before proceeding.
ROOT CANAL TREATMENT
Root canal treatment is a dental procedure used to treat infection or damage in the pulp (the
innermost part of the tooth) and surrounding tissues. It involves removing the infected or damaged
pulp, cleaning and disinfecting the root canals, and then sealing the tooth to prevent further infection.
The duration of a root canal procedure can vary depending on the complexity of the case. On average,
it takes about 60 to 90 minutes. Some cases may require multiple visits.
Most patients can return to normal activities the day after the procedure. Some soreness or mild
discomfort may last for a few days, but this typically subsides with proper care and medication.
CROWNS / CAPPING
A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap that is placed over a tooth to restore its shape, size, strength,
and appearance. It encases the entire visible portion of the tooth above the gum line, providing
protection and support.
Dental crowns are designed to be durable and can last between 5 to 15 years or longer with proper
care. The lifespan of a crown depends on factors such as material used, oral hygiene, and the location
of the crown.
The procedure is typically not painful, as local anesthesia is used to numb the affected tooth and surrounding area. Some discomfort or sensitivity may occur after the procedure, but this usually
subsides within a few days.
DIGITAL DENTISTRY
Digital dentistry refers to the use of digital technologies and tools to diagnose, plan, and perform
dental treatments. This includes digital imaging, computer-aided design (CAD), computer-aided
manufacturing (CAM), and other advanced technologies to enhance the accuracy and efficiency of
dental procedures.
The initial investment in digital technology may be higher, but it often leads to cost savings over time
due to increased efficiency, reduced need for adjustments, and fewer errors. Many patients also find
the benefits of enhanced accuracy and comfort to be well worth the investment.
Yes, digital dentistry improves patient experience by providing more comfortable and less invasive
procedures, quicker turnaround times, and better visualization of treatment options. Patients can also
benefit from more accurate diagnoses and treatment planning.
INTRA ORAL SCANNING
Intraoral scanning is a digital technology used to capture detailed, three-dimensional images of the
inside of the mouth, including the teeth and gums. It involves using a small, handheld scanner to
create a precise digital model of the oral structures.
An intraoral scanner uses a small, wand-like device to capture thousands of digital images of the teeth
and oral tissues. These images are then processed by computer software to create a detailed 3D
model of the mouth. The process is typically quick and comfortable for the patient.
Yes, intraoral scanning is generally more comfortable than traditional impressions. Traditional
impressions use gooey, sometimes unpleasant materials that can cause gagging or discomfort,
whereas digital scanning is a non-invasive process that uses a small wand to capture images without
the need for impression trays or materials.
CAD CAM
CAD/CAM stands for Computer-Aided Design and Computer-Aided Manufacturing. In dentistry,
CAD/CAM technology involves using computer software to design dental restorations and a milling
machine or 3D printer to manufacture them. This technology allows for the creation of custom dental
crowns, bridges, veneers, and other restorations with high precision.
The CAD/CAM procedure itself is not painful. Patients may experience some discomfort during the
preparation of the tooth or while adjusting to a new restoration, but this is usually minimal and
manageable with over-the-counter pain relief if needed.
CAD/CAM restorations are highly accurate, thanks to advanced digital imaging and design technology.
The precision of CAD/CAM technology ensures that restorations fit well and function properly,
providing a high level of satisfaction and performance.
