Frequently Asked Questions

We recommend visiting us every six months for routine checkups and cleanings. However, some patients may need more frequent visits based on their oral health needs.

Yes, we work with most major insurance providers including United Healthcare, Liberty, Aetna, Delta Dental, Humana, and BCBS. Our team will help you understand your coverage and maximize your benefits.

We understand dental anxiety is common and offer a gentle, patient-focused approach. Our office provides various comfort amenities and sedation options, including laughing gas, to help you feel relaxed during your visit.

Yes! We offer family scheduling to make dental care more convenient for busy families. Ask our team about scheduling appointments for multiple family members together.

Please bring your ID, insurance card if applicable, and a list of any medications you're currently taking. Arriving 15 minutes early helps us complete necessary paperwork.

Absolutely! We provide comprehensive dental care for patients of all ages, including children. Our family-friendly environment helps make dental visits enjoyable for young patients.

We accept cash, personal checks, and offer financing through CareCredit and Sunbit to help make dental care affordable for all budgets.

A routine checkup and cleaning usually takes about 60 minutes. If X-rays are needed, the appointment may take slightly longer.

We offer same-day emergency appointments during our regular business hours. Contact our office immediately if you're experiencing dental pain or have suffered an injury.

We're open Monday through Thursday from 7:30 AM to 3:30 PM, and Fridays from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM to accommodate your schedule.

With proper care, implants can last a lifetime, making them a long-term investment in your health.

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We use local anesthesia and sedation options to ensure a comfortable, pain-free experience.

The full process typically takes 3-6 months, allowing time for the implant to fuse with the bone.

Most adults with good oral health and adequate bone density qualify for implants. A consultation will confirm your eligibility.

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Just like natural teeth—brush, floss, and schedule regular checkups to keep them in top shape.

Dental implants have a 95%+ success rate when placed by experienced professionals.

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In some cases, immediate implant placement is possible. Dr. Melo will assess your situation during the consultation.

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We combine modern technology, expert care, and a welcoming environment to make your implant experience smooth and stress-free.

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Schedule a consultation to discuss your options and receive a personalized treatment plan.

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With proper care and regular checkups, crowns and bridges can last 10-15 years or longer.

We ensure a comfortable, pain-free experience using local anesthesia and offer sedation options for anxious patients.

Brush and floss daily, avoid hard or sticky foods, and schedule regular checkups to keep your restoration in top shape.

Many insurance plans cover crowns and bridges. Our team will help you maximize benefits and explore financing options.

It typically takes two visits over a few weeks—one for preparation and impressions, and another for the final placement.

Yes! Once your restoration is placed, you can eat comfortably and confidently with proper care.

We use high-quality porcelain and ceramic that blend naturally with your smile.

Absolutely! Our custom-crafted restorations are matched to your natural tooth color and shape for a seamless look.

Yes! A dental bridge can replace one or several missing teeth in a row, restoring both function and aesthetics.

We ensure a perfect fit, but if you experience discomfort, contact us for a quick adjustment.

Most patients complete treatment in 6-18 months, but Dr. Melo will provide a personalized timeline during your consultation.

Many dental insurance plans cover Invisalign similarly to braces. Our team will help you maximize benefits and explore financing options.

There may be a short adjustment period, but most patients adapt to their aligners within a few days.

You’ll need to remove your aligners when eating or drinking anything other than water, helping to keep them clear and stain-free.

Most patients have check-ins every 6-8 weeks to ensure treatment is progressing as planned.

You may experience mild pressure when switching to a new aligner, but Invisalign is much more comfortable than traditional braces.

Invisalign requires consistent wear (20-22 hours per day). If aligners aren’t worn properly, treatment may take longer.

Invisalign works for many mild to moderate cases, but severe misalignment may require alternative treatments. Dr. Melo will assess your case during your consultation.

Contact us immediately so we can replace your aligner and keep your treatment on track.

Rinse them with lukewarm water, brush gently with a soft toothbrush, and use Invisalign cleaning crystals or denture cleaner as needed.

The denture process typically takes a few appointments over several weeks, allowing for precise customization and adjustments.

Many insurance plans cover partial or full denture costs. Our team will help you maximize benefits and understand any out-of-pocket expenses.

Brush them daily with a soft denture brush, soak them overnight in a denture-cleaning solution, and schedule regular checkups for adjustments.

Yes! While there’s an adjustment period, properly fitted dentures restore chewing function so you can enjoy most foods again.

There may be a brief adjustment period, but with practice, most patients speak clearly within a few days.

With proper care, dentures typically last 5-10 years. Regular adjustments help extend their lifespan.

Well-fitted dentures often don’t need adhesives, but implant-supported dentures provide the most secure fit.

It’s best to remove them at night to allow your gums to rest and prevent irritation.

New dentures may require small adjustments. We provide follow-up care to ensure the best fit.

Yes! They provide superior stability, comfort, and a longer lifespan than traditional dentures.

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

Veneers are typically considered cosmetic and not covered by insurance, but we offer flexible financing options to make treatment affordable.

The procedure is minimally invasive and virtually painless. We use local anesthesia to ensure your comfort during treatment.

Maintain good oral hygiene, avoid biting hard objects, and schedule regular checkups to keep your veneers in top condition.

Veneers can correct mild misalignment, but severe cases may require Invisalign or orthodontic treatment.

Yes! Our custom veneers are designed to match your natural tooth color and shape, creating a seamless, realistic look.

It depends on your goals! Some patients need a single veneer, while others opt for a full set for a completely transformed smile.

Porcelain veneers don’t respond to whitening, so we recommend whitening your natural teeth before veneer placement for the best match.

Porcelain veneers are more durable and stain-resistant, while composite veneers are a faster, more affordable option with slightly shorter longevity.

You can eat immediately, but it’s best to avoid hard, sticky, or extremely hot/cold foods for the first 24 hours as your veneers settle.

Most in-office whitening treatments take about an hour, delivering noticeable results in a single visit.

Yes! Our whitening treatments are safely administered by dental professionals, minimizing tooth sensitivity and gum irritation.

Results typically last several months to a year, depending on your diet, lifestyle, and oral hygiene habits.

No. Our Opalescence system is designed to protect enamel while effectively removing stains.

Whitening does not affect crowns, veneers, or fillings. Dr. Melo can discuss options to ensure an even, natural look.

Avoid dark-colored foods and drinks, brush with whitening toothpaste, and schedule touch-up treatments as needed.

Some patients experience temporary sensitivity, but we use desensitizing agents to keep discomfort minimal.

Whitening is best after braces are removed to prevent uneven results.

Professional whitening is stronger, safer, and more effective, providing faster and longer-lasting results than drugstore products.

Yes! We assess your oral health first to ensure whitening is the best option for you.

Yes! We offer same-day emergency appointments whenever possible. Call us right away for immediate care.

Absolutely! We welcome patients with or without insurance and offer affordable payment plans through CareCredit and Sunbit.

If you’re experiencing severe pain, swelling, bleeding, or a broken tooth, it’s best to seek emergency dental care immediately.

Call our office. Even if we’re closed, our answering service will provide guidance on managing your emergency until we can see you.

A lost crown or filling can expose your tooth to further damage or pain. Contact us for a quick repair to restore your tooth’s function.

Yes, if a tooth is infected, broken, or causing severe pain, we can often perform same-day emergency extractions.

Rinse with warm salt water, take over-the-counter pain relievers, and apply a cold compress to reduce swelling.

For mild emergencies, yes. However, if you’re experiencing severe pain, dizziness, or swelling, arrange for someone to drive you.

It depends on your condition. We’ll provide a personalized care plan to ensure your dental health is fully restored.

We offer a $49 emergency exam for new patients. Treatment costs vary, but we provide upfront pricing and financing options.