Frequently Asked Questions

My teeth are stained. Can you help?

Yes. We offer whitening solutions to brighten teeth dramatically at home or in our office. Call today for an appointment!

Is teeth whitening safe?

Absolutely. We bet you didn't know that teeth whitening, in some form, has been around since the 1700s. Modern whitening uses safe and effective bleaching gel to melt away stains and discoloration. Choose from Zoom! Whitening in our office or convenient take-home teeth-whitening kits.

How can improve my smile?

That sounds like an easy question to answer, but it isn't! Your smile is unique, and we won't compromise your individuality with smile enhancements. Smile design dentistry done right requires an initial consultation in which we’ll discuss your goals, preferences, and options for care. We may suggest porcelain veneers or Lumineers, teeth whitening, all-white fillings and crowns, and/or replacement teeth. Invisalign clear braces may also be involved. After your complimentary cosmetic consultation, we'll present a makeover plan for your new smile.

What can you do to straighten my smile if I don’t want braces?

Porcelain veneers and Lumineers can correct slight misalignments and gaps, as well as discolorations, chips, and other imperfections. All across the globe, veneers are one of the most popular cosmetic dentistry procedures available today. Learn more about porcelain veneers and Lumineers on our Services page.

My gums bleed after I brush. Is this something to be concerned about?

Bleeding is usually a sign of a problem. When gums bleed, the cause usually stems from brushing too hard or early-stage gum disease, called gingivitis. We can consult with you on the proper toothbrush and pressure for safe, effective daily oral care. If your gums show signs of gum disease, we may recommend a deep hygiene treatment to eliminate your symptoms and halt the damage. Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss for American adults and has been linked to many overall health conditions, including stroke, heart attack, and respiratory problems. Untreated, gum disease can significantly damage your health, so call today for an assessment.

Does my insurance cover that?

Dental insurance is diverse. Some policies cover only a small percentage of fees, while others cover 50% or greater. Generally, the more you or your employer pay for premiums, the better the coverage. For the most part, dental insurance covers some restorative and preventive procedures. Cosmetic treatment is not usually covered. To help you pay for your dental care, we accept CareCredit third-party financing. If you have questions, give us a call. We'll be happy to tell you what your insurance will cover.

What payment options do you offer?

For your convenience in paying for your dental care, we accept cash, checks, and all major credit cards. Third-party financing is available through CareCredit, often at low or no interest rates for qualified applicants. Please see their website for details.

What are my options to replace missing teeth?

We offer bridgework, partials, full dentures, mini-implant dentures, and dental implants to replace missing teeth. Learn more about these options on our Services page, then call for a consultation. With X-rays, intraoral photos, and a thorough assessment of your dentition, Dr. Shahriar can help you decide which replacement option is right for you.

What’s the difference between veneers and Lumineers?

Lumineers are actually a brand of veneers that requires minimal or no tooth preparation prior to placement. Some patients prefer Lumineers because of the quick application and reduced risk for sensitivity. However, others prefer traditional porcelain veneers because of their completely customized design.

I have old, dark fillings. Is there any hope for my smile?

Dark fillings and metal crowns can be replaced with strong, esthetic solutions. Dr. Shahriar offers tooth-colored composite resin fillings and all-ceramic crowns to restore form, function, and attractiveness to compromised teeth.