FAQ
Dental Checkups
How often should I get a dental checkup?
Most patients should visit every six months for optimal oral health. However, some patients may need more frequent visits based on their individual needs.
What insurance plans do you accept?
We accept most major insurance plans including Aetna, Metlife, Cigna, Delta Dental, and many others. Our team will help verify your benefits before treatment.
Do you see children for checkups?
Yes! We welcome patients of all ages and provide family-friendly dental care for children 5 years and older.
What if you find a problem during my checkup?
We'll discuss our findings with you and create a personalized treatment plan. Our team will explain all options and help you make informed decisions about your dental care.
Do you offer payment plans?
Yes, we offer various financing options including CareCredit, Sunbit, Cherry, and in-house payment plans to make dental care affordable.
What are your office hours?
We're open Monday through Friday from 9AM to 6PM, with a lunch break from 1PM to 2PM.
Is parking available?
Yes, we offer free parking for our patients' convenience.
What if I have dental anxiety?
Our gentle approach and comfortable amenities help nervous patients feel at ease. We offer various comfort options and can discuss sedation if needed.
How long does a checkup appointment take?
A typical checkup and cleaning appointment takes about 60 minutes. New patient visits may take slightly longer.
What should I bring to my first appointment?
Please bring your ID, insurance card, and a list of any medications you're taking. You can also save time by completing our new patient forms online.
Invisalign
How much does Invisalign cost?
Invisalign costs vary based on the complexity of your case. We accept most major insurance plans and offer affordable payment plans to fit your budget.
How long does Invisalign treatment take?
Most patients complete treatment in 12 to 18 months, but your timeline may vary depending on the degree of correction needed.
Is Invisalign painful?
You may experience mild pressure or discomfort when switching to a new aligner, but it is far less painful than traditional braces.
Can I eat and drink with Invisalign?
Yes, but aligners should be removed when eating or drinking anything other than water to prevent staining and damage.
How often do I need to wear my aligners?
For optimal results, aligners should be worn 20-22 hours per day and removed only for eating, drinking, and oral hygiene.
Will Invisalign affect my speech?
There may be a slight adjustment period, but most patients quickly adapt to speaking with aligners in place.
How do I clean my Invisalign aligners?
Aligners should be rinsed and brushed gently with a soft toothbrush and lukewarm water. Avoid hot water, as it can warp the plastic.
What happens if I lose an aligner?
If you lose an aligner, contact our office immediately. You may need a replacement or be advised to move to the next set early.
Can I switch to Invisalign if I’ve had braces before?
Yes, Invisalign is a great option for post-braces alignment corrections or for those who didn't wear their retainers properly.
How do I get started with Invisalign?
Schedule a consultation at Whitman Dental Center to determine if Invisalign is right for you. We’ll create a customized plan to help you achieve your perfect smile.
Dental Implants
How long do dental implants last?
With proper oral hygiene and routine dental visits, implants can last a lifetime.
Does getting a dental implant hurt?
The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, and most patients experience minimal discomfort. Sedation options are available for added comfort.
How long does the dental implant process take?
On average, the process takes three to six months, allowing time for the implant to fully integrate with the bone.
Are dental implants better than dentures?
Yes, implants offer better stability, comfort, and function compared to dentures, while also preventing bone loss.
How much do dental implants cost?
Costs vary depending on the number of implants and any additional procedures needed. We offer flexible financing options and accept most major insurance plans.
Can I get dental implants if I have bone loss?
Yes, many patients with bone loss qualify for implants with bone grafting procedures to strengthen the jaw.
What are the risks of dental implants?
Complications are rare but can include minor infections or implant failure, which is why proper planning and aftercare are essential.
How do I care for my dental implants?
Implants require daily brushing, flossing, and routine dental checkups to maintain long-term success.
Will my implants look and feel like real teeth?
Yes, custom-crafted restorations are designed to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth for an authentic appearance and feel.
How do I schedule a consultation for dental implants?
You can schedule a complimentary consultation by calling Whitman Dental Center or filling out our online appointment request form.
Full Mouth Reconstruction
How long does full mouth reconstruction take?
The timeline varies depending on the number of procedures involved. Some patients complete treatment in a few months, while others may require a year or more for full recovery.
Does insurance cover full mouth reconstruction?
Many restorative treatments, including crowns, implants, and periodontal care, may be covered partially by insurance. Our team will verify your benefits and provide flexible financing options.
Is full mouth reconstruction painful?
We prioritize patient comfort by using local anesthesia and sedation options. Our minimally invasive techniques help reduce discomfort and promote faster healing.
Will I need multiple appointments?
Yes, full mouth reconstruction is a multi-step process to ensure long-term success and comfort. Your personalized treatment plan will outline expected visits and timelines.
Can full mouth reconstruction fix TMJ or jaw pain?
Yes, correcting bite alignment and jaw positioning can significantly improve TMJ symptoms and prevent further joint discomfort.
Do I need dental implants for full mouth reconstruction?
Not necessarily. While implants are a popular option, bridges, crowns, or dentures may be used depending on your needs.
How long do the results of full mouth reconstruction last?
With proper oral hygiene and routine dental visits, full mouth reconstruction results can last a lifetime.
How will my new teeth look?
All restorations are custom-designed to match the natural color, shape, and size of your teeth for a seamless, aesthetic appearance.
Can I eat normally during the process?
While some dietary adjustments may be needed after certain procedures, most patients can resume normal eating habits within a few days.
How do I get started with full mouth reconstruction?
You can schedule a complimentary consultation at Whitman Dental Center, where our specialists will evaluate your needs and create a customized treatment plan.
Veneers
How long do porcelain veneers last?
With proper care, veneers can last 10-15 years or longer. Good oral hygiene and regular dental visits are essential for longevity.
Are veneers a permanent treatment?
Yes, veneers are considered a permanent cosmetic treatment because a small amount of enamel is removed for placement.
Will my veneers look natural?
Yes, our custom-designed porcelain veneers are crafted to match the color, shape, and translucency of your natural teeth for a seamless appearance.
Do veneers stain like natural teeth?
Porcelain veneers are highly stain-resistant, unlike natural enamel. However, maintaining good oral hygiene and avoiding excessive staining foods can help keep them bright.
Are veneers painful to get?
The procedure is minimally invasive, and we use local anesthesia to ensure comfort during tooth preparation.
Can I get veneers if I have gum disease?
Gum health is essential before placing veneers. If you have gum disease, it must be treated before starting cosmetic procedures.
How do I take care of my veneers?
Brush and floss daily, avoid using your teeth as tools, and schedule regular checkups to maintain veneer longevity.
Can I eat normally with veneers?
Yes, you can eat most foods normally. However, avoid biting into hard objects like ice, pens, or fingernails to prevent damage.
How much do veneers cost?
The cost varies depending on the number of veneers needed. We offer financing options to make treatment affordable.
How do I schedule a veneer consultation?
You can schedule a consultation at Whitman Dental Center by calling our office or using our online appointment request form.
Teeth Whitening
How long does professional teeth whitening take?
Most whitening treatments take 60 to 90 minutes and provide instant, noticeable results in a single visit.
Is professional teeth whitening safe?
Yes, our dentist-supervised treatments use professional-grade whitening gel formulated to protect your enamel and gums.
How long do whitening results last?
With proper care, results can last anywhere from six months to a year or longer. Avoiding staining foods and drinks and maintaining good oral hygiene will extend your results.
Will teeth whitening make my teeth sensitive?
Some patients may experience mild, temporary sensitivity, but our advanced whitening formulas minimize discomfort. If needed, we offer desensitizing treatments.
Can I whiten my teeth if I have crowns or veneers?
Whitening treatments only work on natural enamel and will not lighten crowns, veneers, or fillings. We can discuss options for maintaining a uniform shade.
How much whiter will my teeth get?
Most patients see their teeth lighten by several shades, though final results depend on the type and severity of staining.
Can I eat or drink after teeth whitening?
For the first 24-48 hours, avoid dark-colored foods and drinks like coffee, wine, and berries to prevent re-staining.
How often should I whiten my teeth?
Most patients get professional whitening every 12-18 months to maintain brightness, with occasional touch-ups as needed.
Are over-the-counter whitening kits effective?
Store-bought whitening strips and gels offer limited results and may cause uneven whitening or increased tooth sensitivity. Professional whitening is stronger, safer, and longer-lasting.
How do I schedule a whitening appointment?
You can schedule a whitening consultation by calling our office or booking online. We offer flexible financing options and accept most insurance plans.
Emergency
Do you accept dental insurance for emergency visits?
Yes, we accept most major insurance plans, including Aetna, MetLife, Cigna, Delta Dental, and more. Our team will help verify your benefits.
What if I don’t have dental insurance?
We offer multiple financing options, including CareCredit, Sunbit, Cherry, and in-house payment plans to make care affordable.
How soon can I be seen for a dental emergency?
We offer same-day emergency appointments and strive to see patients as soon as possible. Call us immediately for availability.
What should I do if I knock out a tooth?
Try to place the tooth back in the socket without touching the root. If that’s not possible, store it in milk or saliva and visit our office immediately.
Can I go to the ER for a dental emergency?
Emergency rooms do not provide dental care, but they can prescribe pain medication. It’s best to see a dentist immediately for proper treatment.
What is considered a true dental emergency?
Any issue causing severe pain, swelling, bleeding, or infection should be treated as an emergency. Call us right away for guidance.
Do you offer sedation for emergency procedures?
Yes, we offer local anesthesia and sedation options for patients with dental anxiety or complex procedures.
How much does an emergency visit cost?
We offer a $79 Emergency Exam Special, which includes a limited exam and X-rays. Additional treatments are discussed before proceeding.
Can an emergency visit prevent tooth loss?
Yes. Seeking immediate dental care can prevent the need for extractions and help save natural teeth whenever possible.
How do I schedule an emergency appointment?
Call Whitman Dental Center immediately to book a same-day emergency visit. We prioritize urgent cases to provide fast, effective relief.
Dentists Proudly Serving
Philadelphia, PA
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