FAQ

Regular dental checkups are essential for maintaining good oral health and catching potential issues early. They allow for the early detection of problems like tooth decay, gum disease, and even oral cancer, which can be more easily treated when identified early. Additionally, checkups provide an opportunity for professional cleaning, which removes plaque and tartar buildup that regular brushing and flossing can't eliminate.

The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends visiting your dentist at least once every six months for a routine checkup and cleaning. However, some individuals may require more frequent visits depending on their specific oral health needs. Dr. Kevin Herring can provide personalized recommendations based on your dental history and current condition.

A typical dental checkup at Kevin Herring, DDS includes:

• Professional Cleaning: To remove plaque and tartar buildup, promoting healthy gums and teeth.
• Full Examination: Dr. Herring will inspect your teeth, gums, and mouth for any signs of decay, disease, or other issues.
• Digital X-rays: To get a comprehensive view of your oral health, identifying problems not visible to the naked eye.
• Oral Cancer Screening: An important preventive measure to detect early signs of oral cancer.

Dental checkups are generally not painful. Some patients may experience slight discomfort during the cleaning process, especially if there's significant tartar buildup or gum sensitivity. However, our team at Kevin Herring, DDS is skilled in providing gentle care, ensuring your comfort throughout the visit.

Introducing children to dental checkups at an early age is crucial for instilling good oral hygiene habits and ensuring the proper development of their teeth and gums. Regular visits help identify and treat issues like cavities or misalignments early on, promoting a lifetime of healthy smiles.

For adults and seniors, preventive care focuses on maintaining oral health, preventing tooth loss, and managing any age-related dental issues such as dry mouth or wear and tear on the teeth. Regular checkups are key to detecting problems early and keeping natural teeth for as long as possible.

To prepare for your dental checkup, continue your regular oral hygiene routine, make a list of any questions or concerns you might have for Dr. Herring, and gather any relevant dental records if you're a new patient. This preparation can help make your visit more efficient and informative.

Dental anxiety is common, and at Kevin Herring, DDS, we're committed to making your experience as comfortable as possible. We offer a compassionate, understanding approach and can discuss options such as sedation dentistry to ease your anxiety during your visit.

Booking your dental checkup at Kevin Herring, DDS is easy! Simply contact our Prunedale, CA office directly to schedule your appointment. We're looking forward to providing you with personalized, gentle care that meets all your dental health needs.

Dental crowns are custom-fitted caps placed over a damaged or decayed tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. Dental bridges, on the other hand, are used to replace one or more missing teeth by anchoring artificial teeth between crowns on adjacent teeth or dental implants.

You might need a crown if you have a tooth that's significantly damaged, decayed, or after root canal treatment. Crowns are also used to cover dental implants or as anchors for a bridge. Bridges are recommended if you have one or more missing teeth and wish to restore functionality and aesthetics to your smile. During your consultation, Dr. Kevin Herring will evaluate your specific needs and recommend the best treatment plan.

At Kevin Herring, DDS, we specialize in high-quality zirconia restorations for both crowns and bridges. Zirconia is chosen for its strength, durability, and natural appearance, ensuring your restorations blend seamlessly with your natural teeth. It’s also biocompatible, making it an excellent option for patients with metal sensitivities.

With proper care and maintenance, zirconia crowns and bridges can last many years. The longevity of your restoration depends on several factors, including oral hygiene practices, lifestyle habits, and regular dental checkups. Generally, crowns and bridges can last anywhere from 5 to 15 years or longer.

The process of getting crowns or bridges involves minimal discomfort. Local anesthesia is used during the procedure to ensure you're comfortable and pain-free. Some patients might experience mild sensitivity or soreness after the anesthesia wears off, but this is typically manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers and subsides within a few days.

Caring for crowns and bridges involves the same practices as caring for your natural teeth. This includes brushing twice a day, flossing daily (especially around the crown or bridge area), and visiting Kevin Herring, DDS for regular checkups and cleanings. Avoiding hard and sticky foods can also help prolong the life of your restorations.

Yes, damaged crowns or bridges can often be repaired or replaced, depending on the extent of the damage. If you notice any issues with your crown or bridge, it's important to contact our office immediately for an evaluation.

The cost of crowns and bridges varies depending on several factors, including the number of teeth involved and the material used. At Kevin Herring, DDS, we offer transparent pricing and financing options, including zero-interest financing through CareCredit, to make your treatment as affordable as possible.

Starting your crown or bridge treatment at Kevin Herring, DDS is easy. Simply contact our Prunedale, CA office to schedule a consultation. During your visit, Dr. Herring will discuss your treatment options, answer any questions you may have, and outline the next steps in your smile restoration journey.

ClearCorrect is an innovative orthodontic treatment that uses custom-made, virtually invisible aligners to straighten teeth. It's an effective solution for correcting various dental issues, including crowding, spacing, and misalignment, without the need for traditional metal braces.

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ClearCorrect treatment involves wearing a series of clear, removable aligners that gradually move your teeth into their desired position. Each aligner is worn for about two weeks before moving on to the next in the series, with the entire process overseen by a dental professional.

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The duration of ClearCorrect treatment varies depending on the individual's dental needs and goals. On average, treatment can take anywhere from 6 months to 24 months, with the average case completing in about 12 months.

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ClearCorrect aligners are designed for comfort and minimal discomfort. While you may experience some pressure and mild discomfort each time you switch to a new set of aligners, this is typically short-lived and a sign that the treatment is working.

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Yes, one of the major advantages of ClearCorrect aligners is that they are removable. You can take them out to eat, drink, brush, and floss, allowing for better oral hygiene and no dietary restrictions during treatment.

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ClearCorrect is suitable for teenagers and adults looking for a discreet way to improve their smile. Ideal candidates are those with mild to moderate alignment issues. A consultation with a ClearCorrect provider, like Kevin Herring, DDS, is the best way to determine if this treatment is right for you.

You will need to visit your ClearCorrect provider approximately every 6-8 weeks. These visits allow the dentist to monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.

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After completing your ClearCorrect treatment, you may need to wear a retainer to help maintain your new smile. Your dentist will provide you with a customized retainer and instructions on how to use it to ensure the long-lasting results of your treatment.

The cost of ClearCorrect treatment can vary based on the complexity of your case and the length of treatment. Kevin Herring, DDS offers personalized treatment plans tailored to your budget, with detailed cost information provided during your initial consultation.

Kevin Herring, DDS offers personalized, comprehensive care for ClearCorrect treatment in Prunedale, CA. Our practice is committed to excellence, leveraging state-of-the-art technology and providing a supportive environment to ensure you achieve the smile you've always wanted.

Veneers are thin, custom-made shells designed to cover the front surface of teeth. Made from porcelain or composite resin, they improve the appearance of your smile by correcting a variety of dental issues, such as discoloration, chips, gaps, or misalignment.

Our practice offers a range of veneer options to suit every need and preference, including:

• Lumineers: Ultra-thin and requiring minimal tooth preparation, Lumineers are a less invasive option.
• DaVinci Veneers: Known for their high quality and durability, DaVinci Veneers offer a beautiful, natural look.
• Empress Veneers: Empress Veneers are lauded for their strength and aesthetic appeal, providing a lifelike translucency.
• Zirconia Veneers: Ideal for teeth that require additional strength, Zirconia Veneers are incredibly durable while offering a natural appearance.

Veneers can address a wide range of dental imperfections, including:

• Discoloration that can't be corrected with whitening
• Chips or cracks in teeth
• Gaps between teeth
• Misshapen or uneven teeth
• Mild misalignment that doesn't require orthodontic treatment

By covering these imperfections, veneers create a uniform, whiter, and more aesthetically pleasing smile.

The process typically involves three main steps:

• Consultation and Planning: Dr. Herring will assess your teeth, discuss your goals, and determine the best type of veneers for you.
• Preparation: A small amount of enamel is removed from the front of your teeth to accommodate the veneer, and an impression is taken.
• Application: Once your custom veneers are ready, they are carefully bonded to your teeth, instantly transforming your smile.

Veneers are considered a semi-permanent solution. While they can last many years with proper care, they may eventually need to be replaced. Porcelain veneers, for example, can last up to 10-15 years or longer with good oral hygiene and regular dental checkups.

Veneers do not require special care beyond good oral hygiene practices. Brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and regular dental checkups are essential to maintain both your veneers and natural teeth. Avoiding hard foods and not using your teeth as tools can also prolong the life of your veneers.

Veneers and crowns serve different purposes. Veneers are primarily used for cosmetic improvements, covering the front surface of the tooth. Crowns encase the entire tooth and are used for teeth that are significantly damaged or decayed. Veneers are a less invasive option when the primary goal is to enhance the appearance of your smile.

The best way to determine if veneers are the right option for you is to schedule a consultation with Dr. Kevin Herring. During the consultation, we'll discuss your cosmetic goals, evaluate your oral health, and recommend the best treatment plan to achieve your desired outcome.

The cost of veneers varies depending on the type of veneers selected and the number of veneers needed. At Kevin Herring, DDS, we strive to make cosmetic dentistry accessible and offer various financing options to fit your budget. During your consultation, we'll provide a detailed cost estimate based on your personalized treatment plan.

Dental implants are artificial tooth roots, typically made from titanium or ceramic, that are surgically placed into the jawbone. Once in place, they provide a sturdy foundation for fixed (permanent) or removable replacement teeth, designed to match your natural teeth.

Dental implants fuse with your jawbone through a process called osseointegration. This creates a stable base for supporting artificial teeth, including crowns, bridges, and dentures. Implants help to prevent bone loss, maintain facial structure, and provide functionality similar to natural teeth.

Most people in good general health, with adequate jawbone to support implants, are candidates for dental implants. Conditions such as uncontrolled diabetes, cancer, or gum disease may require additional evaluation and treatment to ensure the best outcome.

Implant dentures are an innovative solution for individuals missing several or all of their teeth. Unlike traditional dentures, which rest on the gums, implant dentures are anchored to the jawbone with dental implants. This provides enhanced stability, improved comfort, and better chewing efficiency.

The choice between all-on-4 and all-on-6 implant dentures depends on your specific needs, including the quality and quantity of your jawbone. All-on-4 uses four implants per arch, while all-on-6 uses six, providing additional support. During your consultation, Dr. Herring will recommend the best option based on a thorough examination and discussion of your goals.

Most patients report minimal discomfort during the dental implant procedure, often less than that of a tooth extraction. Local anesthesia is used during surgery, and sedation options may be available to ensure your comfort. Post-operative discomfort is typically manageable with over-the-counter pain medication.

With proper care and maintenance, dental implants can last a lifetime. The success of implants depends on several factors, including oral hygiene, regular dental checkups, and avoiding damaging habits like smoking.

Caring for dental implants and implant dentures involves regular brushing, flossing, and professional dental checkups. Special attention should be given to cleaning around the implants to prevent gum disease and ensure the longevity of your restoration.

The cost of dental implants and implant dentures varies based on the number of implants needed, the type of restoration, and other individual factors. Our practice offers transparent pricing and financing options to make treatment accessible. During your free consultation, we'll provide a detailed estimate tailored to your specific needs.

Beginning your dental implant journey at Kevin Herring, DDS is easy. Contact us to schedule your implant consultation. During this visit, Dr. Herring will assess your oral health, discuss your options, and create a personalized treatment plan to restore your smile and confidence.

Teeth whitening is a cosmetic dental procedure designed to remove stains and discoloration from teeth, resulting in a brighter and whiter smile. It can be performed at home with professional-grade products or in a dental office.

Teeth whitening treatments use bleaching agents, typically hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, to break down stains and discoloration on the tooth surface. The process lightens the color of your teeth, enhancing their appearance.

Yes, when conducted under the guidance of a dental professional, teeth whitening is a safe procedure. At Kevin Herring, DDS, we ensure that our teeth whitening treatments, including Crest 3D White, are applied with your safety and comfort in mind, minimizing the risk of sensitivity and gum irritation.

The longevity of teeth whitening results can vary based on individual habits and lifestyle choices. Typically, the effects can last from several months to a few years. To maintain your results, it's important to avoid stain-causing foods and beverages, use a whitening toothpaste, and follow up with touch-up treatments as recommended.

Most adults are good candidates for teeth whitening, but it may not be suitable for everyone. Teeth whitening is not recommended for children under 16, pregnant or nursing women, or individuals with gum disease, worn enamel, cavities, or allergies to whitening agents. During your consultation at Kevin Herring, DDS, we'll assess your eligibility for teeth whitening.

Teeth whitening is most effective on extrinsic (surface) stains caused by food, drink, and tobacco. Intrinsic stains, which are inside the tooth, may not respond as well to whitening treatments. We'll evaluate the type of staining you have and recommend the best treatment approach for you.

Some individuals may experience temporary tooth sensitivity or gum irritation following teeth whitening treatments. We use products designed to minimize these effects and can provide guidance on how to manage sensitivity during and after your treatment.

To extend the longevity of your teeth whitening results, avoid stain-causing foods and beverages, maintain good oral hygiene practices, and consider using a whitening toothpaste. Regular dental checkups and cleanings at Kevin Herring, DDS can also help maintain your brighter smile.

Starting your teeth whitening journey is easy! Contact our Prunedale, CA office to schedule a consultation. During this visit, we'll discuss your cosmetic goals, evaluate your oral health, and determine the most suitable teeth whitening option for you.