FAQ

A typical dental checkup, including cleaning and examination, usually takes about an hour. However, if additional treatments or discussions are needed, it may take longer.

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Dental checkups are generally pain-free. If you have sensitive teeth or gums, let us know, and we will take extra precautions to ensure your comfort.

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At Kurz Family and Cosmetic Dentistry, we understand dental anxiety and offer solutions to help make your experience as comfortable as possible, including sedation options. Discuss your concerns with us, and we’ll tailor our approach to suit your needs.

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Yes, regular dental checkups are important for maintaining overall health. Poor oral health has been linked to various health issues, including heart disease and diabetes. Keeping your mouth healthy helps keep your body healthy.

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If Dr. Kurz identifies any issues during your examination, she will discuss them with you and suggest the best treatment options. Our goal is to address problems early, ensuring effective and less invasive treatments.

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With modern anesthesia and Dr. Kurz's gentle approach, most patients report that having a root canal feels similar to getting a filling.

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Root canal treatments have a very high success rate, and with proper care, a treated tooth can last as long as natural teeth.

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Most patients return to their normal activities the next day. Any mild discomfort typically subsides within a few days.

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The cost of a root canal varies depending on the severity of the problem and which tooth is affected. We offer detailed pricing information during your consultation and work with many insurance providers to minimize your out-of-pocket expenses.

The main alternative to a root canal is tooth extraction, which is usually followed by replacing the tooth with an implant, bridge, or denture to restore chewing function and prevent shifting of the surrounding teeth.

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The duration of ClearCorrect treatment varies depending on the complexity of the case, but most patients complete their treatment within one to two years. Dr. Elena Kurz will provide a personalized treatment timeline based on your specific orthodontic needs.

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While any orthodontic treatment can cause discomfort, most patients find ClearCorrect less painful than traditional braces. The aligners are made from smooth plastic with no sharp edges, minimizing irritation. Any discomfort usually subsides a few days after switching to a new aligner set.

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ClearCorrect is suitable for adults and teenagers with mild to moderate alignment issues. During your initial consultation at Kurz Family and Cosmetic Dentistry, Dr. Kurz will assess your teeth and gums to determine if ClearCorrect is the right choice for you.

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To care for your ClearCorrect aligners, remove them while eating and drinking anything other than water. Clean your aligners daily with a soft toothbrush and lukewarm water. Avoid using hot water, as it can warp the plastic. Good oral hygiene, including regular brushing and flossing, is crucial to prevent cavities and gum disease during treatment.

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If you lose an aligner, contact Kurz Family and Cosmetic Dentistry immediately. Dr. Kurz can advise whether to move on to the next set of aligners or order a replacement. It's essential to address the loss quickly to prevent any delays in your treatment plan.

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Some patients may notice a slight lisp when they first begin wearing ClearCorrect aligners, but this typically resolves within a few days as you become accustomed to the aligners.

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The cost of ClearCorrect treatment can vary based on the complexity of your case and the length of treatment. Kurz Family and Cosmetic Dentistry offers competitive pricing and works with many insurance plans that cover orthodontic treatment. We also provide flexible payment plans to make treatment more affordable.

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One of the biggest advantages of Lumineers is that the process is virtually pain-free. Because they require little to no tooth reduction, the procedure involves minimal discomfort. Most patients do not need anesthesia during the application of Lumineers, making it an appealing choice for those worried about pain.

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Getting Lumineers typically requires two visits to your dentist. During the first visit, a precision mold will be taken, and you will choose the shade of your new smile. On the second visit, your Lumineers are painlessly applied without shots or drilling. This straightforward procedure is much quicker than that of traditional veneers.

Lumineers are built to last and can maintain their radiant appearance for over 20 years with proper care. Like natural teeth, they require regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups to ensure they stay in excellent condition.

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Yes, Lumineers are completely reversible because there is minimal tooth reduction involved in most cases. This feature is a significant advantage for patients who prefer a non-permanent option that can be adjusted or reversed if desired.

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Lumineers are a suitable option for most individuals looking to enhance their smile. However, during your initial consultation at Kurz Family and Cosmetic Dentistry, Dr. Kurz will evaluate your specific dental needs and help determine if Lumineers are the best choice for you, considering factors like overall oral health and cosmetic goals.

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The cost of Lumineers varies based on several factors, including the number of teeth being treated and specific dental requirements. Kurz Family and Cosmetic Dentistry offers various financing options to help make Lumineers affordable for patients.

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Patients are often concerned about pain during and after the dental implant procedure. At Kurz Family and Cosmetic Dentistry, we ensure the comfort of our patients with local anesthesia and sedation during the procedure. Post-surgery discomfort is typically mild and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. Most patients report that the discomfort is less than they expected and is well worth the benefits of the final results.

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Most adults in good general health and with adequate jawbone to support implants are candidates for this procedure. It’s important to have healthy gums and be free from conditions that impair bone healing. For those who lack sufficient jawbone volume, procedures such as bone grafting may be recommended prior to implant placement.

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With proper care and maintenance, dental implants can last a lifetime. The crown attached to an implant can last 10-15 years before it may need to be replaced due to wear and tear. However, the longevity of the materials and the patient's lifestyle choices can affect the durability of dental implants.

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The success rate of dental implants varies, depending on where in the jaw the implants are placed but, in general, dental implants have a success rate of up to 95%. Good oral hygiene and regular dental visits can significantly increase the success rate of implants.

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Caring for dental implants is similar to caring for natural teeth. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups are essential. Avoid chewing hard items such as ice and hard candy, which can damage the crown. Dr. Kurz will provide detailed care instructions after your procedure.

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The cost of dental implants can vary depending on several factors, including the number of implants and the complexity of the case. At Kurz Family and Cosmetic Dentistry, we provide a detailed breakdown of costs during the initial consultation and discuss payment and financing options to accommodate our patients’ budgets.

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The longevity of teeth whitening results varies based on lifestyle and oral hygiene practices. Typically, the effects can last from six months to two years. Regular touch-ups and avoiding staining substances can help maintain the results longer.

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When performed by a professional like Dr. Kurz, teeth whitening is a safe procedure. We take precautions to protect your gums and tooth enamel, ensuring a safe and comfortable experience.

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To extend the whitening effects, maintain good oral hygiene, visit our office for regular cleanings, and avoid foods and drinks that stain teeth. Additionally, consider using a whitening toothpaste and rinsing your mouth after consuming stain-causing beverages.

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Most adults can benefit from teeth whitening, but it’s not suitable for everyone. It is not recommended for children under 16, pregnant women, or individuals with severe tooth sensitivity, gum disease, or worn enamel. A consultation with Dr. Kurz can determine if teeth whitening is appropriate for you.

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Immediate assessment and treatment are crucial, not only to relieve pain but also to ensure the best possible outcome for your dental health. Delaying treatment can lead to complications and more extensive procedures.

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While not all dental emergencies can be prevented, regular check-ups and maintaining good dental hygiene can significantly reduce your risk. Wearing a mouthguard during sports can also protect against traumatic injuries to your teeth and mouth.

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Kurz Family and Cosmetic Dentistry provides contact information for after-hours emergencies. It's important to call our office immediately for instructions on how to proceed. We are here to ensure that you receive the care you need, when you need it.

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The cost of emergency dental treatment can vary depending on the type of care you require. We accept most major PPO insurances and offer several payment options to make emergency care as accessible as possible.

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General dentistry is related to your health. Cosmetic dentistry has to do with your appearance. If a cosmetic dentistry procedure improves the functionality of your mouth, that is all well and good, but it is not the main purpose. A responsible dentist, though, will not consider you for cosmetic treatments if your general dental health is not good. So if you have cavities, gum disease, or other dental health issues, they will have to be corrected before you can consider cosmetic dentistry.

You do not have to consider it if your dental health is good and you are happy with your smile. The key indicator, though, is the last four words in that sentence – “happy with your smile.” If you dislike your smile, then you might feel self-conscious or embarrassed. Cosmetic dentistry can give you the smile you want so that you will no longer feel uncomfortable about smiling.

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Well, your Mom’s dentist probably wasn’t trained in cosmetic dentistry procedures. Few dentists were, back in the day. Today, though, dentists know about all manner of treatments that can improve your smile.

Periodontal Disease is a quiet disease that begins with little or no symptoms. It is caused by bacteria that surrounds the teeth and enters the gums. The immediate condition is known as ‘gingivitis’. The gums become irritated, inflamed and often bleed. If not properly treated, the condition worsens. Noticeable symptoms now appear.

Back to veneers, they are just a cosmetic dentistry treatment that involves installing tooth-like porcelain shells over unsightly teeth. The length, shape and color of your teeth can be altered using dental veneers. Crowns are another way of correcting dental imperfections when veneers are not sufficient to correct the dental issues.

General dentistry is related to your health. Cosmetic dentistry has to do with your appearance. If a cosmetic dentistry procedure improves the functionality of your mouth, that is all well and good, but it is not the main purpose. A responsible dentist, though, will not consider you for cosmetic treatments if your general dental health is not good. So if you have cavities, gum disease, or other dental health issues, they will have to be corrected before you can consider cosmetic dentistry.

You do not have to consider it if your dental health is good and you are happy with your smile. The key indicator, though, is the last four words in that sentence – “happy with your smile.” If you dislike your smile, then you might feel self-conscious or embarrassed. Cosmetic dentistry can give you the smile you want so that you will no longer feel uncomfortable about smiling.

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Well, your Mom’s dentist probably wasn’t trained in cosmetic dentistry procedures. Few dentists were, back in the day. Today, though, dentists know about all manner of treatments that can improve your smile.

Periodontal Disease is a quiet disease that begins with little or no symptoms. It is caused by bacteria that surrounds the teeth and enters the gums. The immediate condition is known as ‘gingivitis’. The gums become irritated, inflamed and often bleed. If not properly treated, the condition worsens. Noticeable symptoms now appear.

Back to veneers, they are just a cosmetic dentistry treatment that involves installing tooth-like porcelain shells over unsightly teeth. The length, shape and color of your teeth can be altered using dental veneers. Crowns are another way of correcting dental imperfections when veneers are not sufficient to correct the dental issues.

Dr. Kurz will provide specific instructions based on your treatment plan. Typically, you will need to avoid eating or drinking for a few hours before your appointment and arrange for someone to drive you to and from our office.

Coverage for sedation dentistry varies by insurance plan. Our team can help you understand your benefits and discuss financing options if needed.

Oral conscious sedation is generally less expensive than other forms of sedation, such as IV sedation or general anesthesia. The cost can vary depending on the complexity of the procedure and your individual treatment plan.

While oral conscious sedation is safe for most patients, it may not be suitable for everyone. Dr. Kurz will evaluate your medical history and current health to determine if it is the right option for you.

The effects of the sedative can last for several hours, so you will need someone to drive you home after your appointment. It's also advisable to rest for the remainder of the day.

No, you will remain awake but in a deeply relaxed state. You will be able to respond to Dr. Kurz and follow her instructions.

Yes, oral conscious sedation is safe when administered by a trained professional like Dr. Kurz. You will be closely monitored throughout the procedure to ensure your safety.