FAQs

Insurance Made Simple – Your Choice, Your Care!

We know dental insurance can be confusing, but don’t worry—we’re here to help! At Pacific Family Dentistry, we accept all insurance plans and are proud to be PPO and Premier providers. While we’re not contracted with HMOs (which assign you a dentist), we may still be in-network through your insurance’s payor network—meaning you could still have coverage with us!

Out-of-network benefits? You have the power to choose! Many people think out-of-network means out of reach, but that’s not always the case. Your insurance shouldn’t limit your care—it should give you options. Let us help you maximize your benefits while receiving the high-quality care you deserve.

Not sure about your coverage? Call us today, and our team will happily check your benefits and guide you through your options. Your smile, your choice!

• Knocked-Out Tooth? Act Fast to Save It!

  Did you know over 5 million teeth are knocked out every year? Accidents happen, but knowing what to do can make the difference between saving and losing a tooth. If you act quickly and correctly, a knocked-out tooth can sometimes be reimplanted—but time is critical!

  What to Do If a Tooth Gets Knocked Out

  Find the tooth and handle it ONLY by the crown (chewing surface)—never touch the roots!
  DO NOT scrub, use soap, or chemicals. If dirty, rinse it gently with milk, saliva, or water.
  ⏳ Get to a dentist within 30 minutes—the sooner, the better!

  How to Transport the Tooth

  ✔️ Best option: Place the tooth back in its socket immediately and bite down gently on gauze or a wet tea bag to keep it in place.
  ✔️ If that’s not possible: Keep the tooth moist by placing it in milk, saliva, or under your tongue. Never wrap it in a tissue or cloth!
  ✔️ For future emergencies: Consider keeping a Save-A-Tooth kit in your first aid box—available at most pharmacies.

  The faster you act, the better the chances of saving the tooth for years to come!

  How to Prevent Knocked-Out Teeth

  Wear a mouthguard during sports.
  Always buckle up when driving.
  Avoid fights (your smile is worth it!).
  Be cautious with hard foods like ice, popcorn kernels, and tough bread.

  Accidents can happen—but now you’re prepared! Knowing these steps could save your tooth and your smile.

More Than Just a Cleaning – Protect Your Smile!

You’ve probably heard it before: Visit the dentist twice a year for a check-up and cleaning. But did you know these visits are about so much more than just cleaning your teeth?

Regular dental check-ups help prevent problems before they start, keeping your teeth, gums, and overall health in check. While your dentist or hygienist may recommend more frequent visits, each appointment is packed with important steps to keep your smile strong and healthy:

✅ Medical History Review – Your overall health impacts your dental health! We review any medical conditions, medications, or changes in your health.

✅ X-Rays (Radiographs) – Detect hidden decay, cysts, tumors, bone loss, and check tooth and root positioning.

✅ Oral Cancer Screening – A quick but crucial check of your face, neck, lips, tongue, throat, and gums for early signs of oral cancer.

✅ Gum Disease Evaluation – Healthy gums are the foundation of a healthy smile! We assess for signs of periodontal disease.

✅ Cavity Check – Every tooth surface is examined with specialized instruments to catch decay early.

✅ Existing Restorations Check – Fillings, crowns, and other restorations are inspected for any needed repairs.

✅ Tartar (Calculus) Removal – Hardened plaque that can’t be brushed away is removed to prevent gum disease.

✅ Plaque Removal – This sticky, bacteria-filled film leads to gum inflammation—early intervention helps prevent bigger problems!

✅ Teeth Polishing – Removes stains and lingering plaque for a fresh, clean feel.

✅ Oral Hygiene Recommendations – We guide you on the best tools and techniques, from electric toothbrushes to fluoride treatments.

✅ Dietary Review – Your diet plays a major role in your dental health—we’ll discuss ways to make tooth-friendly choices.

As you can see, a dental visit is so much more than just checking for cavities! Regular exams and cleanings are essential to keeping your teeth strong, your gums healthy, and your smile shining.

Book your visit today—your future smile will thank you!

Plaque Beware: Your Guide to a Healthier Smile!

Brushing and flossing aren’t just daily habits—they’re your first line of defense against plaque, bacteria, and gum disease!

What is Plaque?
Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria, food particles, and saliva that clings to your teeth and gums. If not removed, it hardens into tartar (calculus), which leads to tooth decay, gum disease, and even bone loss. The only way to keep it in check? Consistent brushing, flossing, and good oral hygiene.

Brushing: The Right Way to Do It!

Brush at least twice a day—especially before bed—with a soft-bristled, ADA-approved toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
Use a 45-degree angle to the gums and brush in gentle, circular motions to reach all surfaces.
✨ Don’t forget your tongue! Brushing your tongue removes bacteria and keeps your breath fresh.
⚡ Try an electric toothbrush! It makes plaque removal easier and more effective—just let the brush do the work!

Flossing: A Must, Not an Option!

Flossing reaches where your toothbrush can’t, cleaning between teeth and below the gumline to prevent cavities and gum disease.

➡️ Use 12-16 inches of floss, wrapping it around your fingers and leaving a couple of inches to work with.
➡️ Gently slide the floss between teeth using a sawing motion—never snap it against your gums!
➡️ Curve it into a "C" shape to clean along each tooth and under the gumline.
➡️ Floss holders are a great option if regular flossing is tricky for you!

Rinsing: The Finishing Touch

Swish with water after brushing and meals to wash away lingering debris.
If using mouthwash, check with your dentist to ensure you’re using the best option for your needs.

Keeping your teeth clean isn’t just about a sparkling smile—it’s about protecting your health! Make brushing, flossing, and rinsing a daily habit, and your smile will thank you. ✨

Floss Like a Boss: The Secret to a Healthier Smile!

Brushing alone isn’t enough—your toothbrush can’t reach between your teeth, where food, plaque, and bacteria love to hide. These tight spaces are prime spots for cavities and gum disease to develop.

That’s where flossing comes in! Flossing daily removes debris and breaks up plaque colonies before they harden into tartar, preventing irritation, gum disease, and bone loss.

Why Flossing Matters

Plaque 101 – This sticky, nearly invisible film is full of bacteria that release acids, causing cavities and gum inflammation.
⚠️ Tartar Trouble – If plaque isn’t removed, it hardens into tartar (calculus), irritating gums and slowly destroying bone—the start of periodontal disease.
Flossing Stops the Damage – Cleaning between your teeth disrupts plaque buildup and keeps your gums and teeth strong and healthy.

How to Floss Like a Pro

1️⃣ Take 12-16 inches of floss and wrap it around your middle fingers, leaving 2 inches to work with.
2️⃣ Gently insert the floss between teeth using a sawing motion—don’t snap it!
3️⃣ Curve the floss into a "C" shape around each tooth and slide it under the gumline.
4️⃣ Move the floss up and down along the tooth’s surface to remove hidden plaque.
5️⃣ Struggling with regular floss? Floss holders make it easier!

Floss Daily for a Lifetime of Smiles!

Make flossing a non-negotiable part of your routine—it’s quick, easy, and essential for keeping your teeth and gums healthy. A few minutes a day can save you from cavities, gum disease, and costly dental work down the road! ✨

Fresh Breath, Fresh Confidence!

Bad breath (halitosis) is something no one wants, but many people experience—sometimes without even realizing it! Everyone has occasional bad breath, especially in the morning, but persistent odor may signal an underlying issue.

What Causes Bad Breath?

Bacteria on the Tongue – Microbial buildup, especially at the back of the tongue, is the #1 cause of bad breath. Studies show that brushing your tongue can reduce bad breath by up to 70%!

Morning Breath – Saliva production slows while you sleep, allowing bacteria to thrive.

Certain Foods – Garlic, onions, and other strong-smelling foods release odor compounds into your bloodstream, which later exit through your breath.

Poor Oral Hygiene – Leftover food particles fuel bacteria growth.

Gum Disease & Cavities – Bacteria trapped beneath inflamed gums or in untreated cavities contribute to persistent odor.

Dry Mouth (Xerostomia) – Caused by medications, mouth breathing, or salivary gland issues, a dry mouth creates the perfect environment for bad breath.

Tobacco Use – Smoking dries out your mouth and leaves a lingering smell.

Dieting & Fasting – When your body burns fat, ketones are released, causing a distinct odor.

Dehydration & Skipping Meals – Drinking water and eating stimulates saliva flow, washing away bacteria.

Underlying Medical Conditions – Diabetes, sinus infections, liver/kidney disease, and bronchitis can all contribute to bad breath.

How to Beat Bad Breath & Keep It Away

✅ Brush & Floss Daily – Use an ADA-approved fluoride toothpaste, floss regularly, and don’t forget to brush your tongue or use a tongue scraper!

Visit Your Dentist Regularly – Get professional cleanings at least twice a year or more often if you have gum disease.

Quit Smoking & Tobacco – Your dentist can help you find resources to quit.

Stay Hydrated – Drinking water frequently keeps your mouth moist and washes away odor-causing bacteria.

Use the Right Mouthwash – Many rinses only mask odor—ask your dentist about antiseptic options that kill bacteria.

If your bad breath persists despite good oral care, your dentist may recommend seeing a physician to check for underlying health conditions.

Don’t let bad breath hold you back—freshen up and take control today!

Gum Health = Whole-Body Health!

Did you know that gum disease is one of the most common infections, even more prevalent than the common cold? It’s not just the #1 reason for tooth loss—it can also impact your overall health in surprising ways!

How Gum Disease Starts

Periodontal disease begins as gingivitis, caused by plaque buildup—a sticky mix of bacteria, food debris, and saliva. If left untreated, bacteria produce toxins that damage the gums and destroy bone, eventually leading to tooth loss.

The Mouth-Body Connection

Studies suggest gum disease bacteria can enter your bloodstream and contribute to:
❤️ Heart disease
Increased stroke risk
Complications for diabetes & respiratory conditions
Higher risk of preterm, low-birth-weight babies

While research is ongoing, it’s clear that oral health plays a key role in overall well-being.

Protect Your Smile & Your Health

✅ Get regular dental check-ups (including a periodontal evaluation).
✅ Maintain good home care—brush, floss, and rinse daily.
✅ Eat a balanced diet to reduce harmful bacteria.

Your mouth and body are connected—taking care of your smile helps protect your health!

Periodontal Disease: The Silent Threat to Your Smile

Did you know that 4 out of 5 people have periodontal (gum) disease and don’t even realize it? Unlike cavities, which often cause discomfort, gum disease can sneak up without noticeable symptoms—making regular dental check-ups essential for early detection and prevention.

How Does Gum Disease Start?

It all begins with plaque—a sticky, invisible film of bacteria, food debris, and saliva. If left on your teeth and gums, bacteria in plaque produce toxins that inflame the gums and slowly destroy the bone supporting your teeth. Brushing, flossing, and routine dental visits are the best way to keep gum disease at bay.

What Puts You at Risk?

Tobacco Use – Smoking or chewing tobacco increases plaque buildup and weakens gum tissue.
Poorly Fitted Dental Work – Crowded teeth, old fillings, or loose bridges can trap bacteria.
Certain Medications – Steroids, blood pressure meds, cancer treatments, and oral contraceptives can reduce saliva, making it easier for plaque to thrive.
Hormonal Changes – Pregnancy, puberty, and oral contraceptives can make gums more sensitive to bacteria.
Underlying Health Conditions – Diabetes, blood disorders, and HIV/AIDS increase your risk.
Genetics – If gum disease runs in your family, you may be more prone to developing it.

Signs of Gum Disease You Shouldn’t Ignore

❌ Red, swollen gums – Healthy gums should never look inflamed.
❌ Bleeding gums – Your gums shouldn't bleed when you brush or floss.
❌ Persistent bad breath – Bacteria trapped under the gums cause odor.
❌ New gaps between teeth – Bone loss can shift teeth.
❌ Loose teeth – A sign that gum disease is weakening the foundation of your teeth.
❌ Pus around the gums – A sign of active infection.
❌ Receding gums – Exposed tooth roots mean your gums are pulling away.
❌ Tender or sensitive teeth – Plaque and bacteria can make teeth feel uncomfortable.

Protect Your Health!

Boost Your Confidence with a Brighter, Healthier Smile!

If you’re feeling self-conscious about your teeth or simply want to enhance your smile, cosmetic dentistry can help! With today’s advanced treatments, achieving a whiter, straighter, and more confident smile is easier than ever.

From minor touch-ups to full smile makeovers, cosmetic dentistry offers custom solutions to fit your needs. Whether it’s brightening your teeth, fixing chips, or replacing missing teeth, your dentist can help transform your smile!

Popular Cosmetic Treatments:

✨ Teeth Whitening – Lifts stains from coffee, tea, smoking, and aging for a noticeably brighter smile.

Composite (Tooth-Colored) Fillings – Also called “bonding,” these natural-looking fillings repair cavities, chips, gaps, and worn teeth.

Porcelain Veneers – Thin, custom-made shells that cover stains, chips, gaps, and misaligned teeth for a flawless look.

Porcelain Crowns – A tooth-shaped cap that restores damaged, broken, or heavily decayed teeth while looking completely natural.

Dental Implants – The most durable way to replace missing teeth, providing a strong, stable foundation for crowns, bridges, or dentures.

Orthodontics (Braces & Clear Aligners) – Modern braces and nearly invisible aligners straighten teeth with ease.

With today’s advanced dental techniques, you can achieve a stunning smile that looks and feels natural. Ask your dentist which cosmetic treatments are right for you—and get ready to love your smile! ✨

Brighten Your Smile with Professional Teeth Whitening!

A brighter, whiter smile is one of the top cosmetic goals for many patients—and with today’s advancements, achieving it is easier than ever!

Why Choose Professional Whitening?

While there are countless whitening products on the market, professional whitening treatments provide faster, safer, and longer-lasting results compared to over-the-counter options.

What Causes Tooth Staining?
Aging – Over time, enamel wears down, revealing a darker layer underneath.
☕ Coffee, Tea, & Wine – These beverages stain teeth, making them appear yellow.
Smoking – Tobacco products contribute to stubborn discoloration.
Medications & Fluorosis – Certain childhood antibiotics and excessive fluoride exposure can cause deep stains that may require additional treatment.

Whitening Options

At-Home Whitening – Custom-fitted trays and a professional-strength gel allow you to whiten at your convenience. Wear them for 30 minutes twice a day or overnight for a few weeks to achieve your desired shade.

⚡ In-Office Whitening – Get instant results in just one or more 30-60 minute visits! A powerful whitening agent is applied while your gums are protected, and a special light may be used to speed up the process.

Good to Know: Whitening only works on natural tooth enamel, so if you have old fillings or crowns, your dentist may recommend replacing them to match your newly brightened teeth.

How Long Does Whitening Last?

Teeth whitening isn’t permanent, but with good oral care and occasional touch-ups, your smile can stay bright for years!

Mild Sensitivity? Some patients experience temporary sensitivity after whitening, but this usually fades within a few days.

✨ Ready for a more confident, radiant smile? Ask your dentist about professional whitening options today!

ooth Loss & Replacement: What You Need to Know

Thanks to modern dental advancements, extracting a tooth is usually the last resort. If something goes wrong, we do everything we can to restore your natural tooth. However, in cases of severe decay, gum disease, fractures, or injury, removal may be necessary.

Losing a tooth isn’t just a cosmetic issue—it can lead to serious long-term problems if not replaced. When a tooth is missing:
➡️ The jawbone shrinks, weakening surrounding teeth.
➡️ Neighboring teeth shift or tip into the open space.
➡️ The opposing tooth moves downward or upward, affecting your bite.
➡️ Issues like tooth decay, gum disease, TMJ problems, and difficulty chewing can develop over time.

Tooth Replacement Options

Removable Bridges – A budget-friendly option that replaces one or more teeth, though metal clasps may be visible.

Fixed Bridges – A permanent solution that anchors to adjacent teeth. Strong and natural-looking, but requires crowning healthy teeth.

Dentures – A removable option for replacing multiple or all missing teeth in one arch, designed to mimic your natural smile.

Dental Implants – The gold standard for tooth replacement! Implants provide a stable, durable, and natural-looking solution by placing an artificial root into the jawbone. They also help support loose dentures.

If you’re missing a tooth, don’t wait! Early replacement helps prevent future complications and costly treatments. Ask us about the best option for your smile today!

Outdated Fillings? Upgrade Your Smile Today!

Many of us have old, dark, or worn-out fillings from years past—some dating back to childhood! Over time, these fillings can become unattractive, defective, and even harmful, allowing bacteria to sneak in and cause decay.

If your fillings are damaged, discolored, or just making you feel self-conscious, your dentist can help restore your smile with modern, natural-looking options that are quick, painless, and long-lasting!

Ways to Replace Old Fillings:

Composite (Bonding) Fillings – Tooth-colored fillings that blend seamlessly for a natural, flawless look—ideal for front and visible teeth.

Crowns (Caps) – If a tooth is too damaged for a filling, a custom crown restores strength, function, and aesthetics while protecting the remaining structure.

Inlays/Onlays – Custom-made restorations for larger cavities or damaged teeth that provide a stronger, more conservative alternative to traditional fillings.

✨ Porcelain Veneers – Ultra-thin, stain-resistant porcelain shells that cover imperfections like discoloration, chips, and gaps—perfect for front teeth makeovers!

No more outdated, unsightly fillings! With modern materials, your dental work can look just as natural as your teeth. Ask your dentist which option is best for you and bring back your confident smile! ✨

Seal the Deal: Protect Your Smile with Sealants!

Even with thorough brushing and flossing, your toothbrush can’t reach the deep grooves in your teeth where more than 75% of cavities begin! That’s where dental sealants come in—a simple, protective shield that locks out decay and keeps your teeth healthier, longer.

What Are Sealants?

Sealants are thin, invisible coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of molars and premolars. They create a smooth, protective barrier over deep pits and grooves, making these hard-to-clean areas more resistant to cavities.

Who Benefits from Sealants?

Kids & Teens (Ages 6-16) – Especially during cavity-prone years as molars come in.
Infants – For baby teeth with deep grooves and a high risk of decay.
Adults – For teeth with deep grooves or pits that are difficult to clean.

Quick, Painless & Long-Lasting!

Applying sealants takes just minutes per tooth—your dentist or hygienist will:
✅ Prepare the tooth with a mild solution to help the sealant bond.
✅ Paint on the sealant, which hardens to form a protective layer.
✅ Sometimes, a special light is used to speed up the process.

Keep Your Sealants Strong!

To make them last:
❌ Avoid chewing ice, hard candy, or sticky foods.
✔️ Have your sealants checked during regular dental visits.

Paired with good oral hygiene, a healthy diet, and regular check-ups, sealants are a powerful tool to keep your smile cavity-free! ✨

Straight Teeth = A Healthier, More Confident Smile!

A straight smile isn’t just about looks—it improves chewing, speaking, and overall dental health while boosting confidence. Crooked teeth, on the other hand, can lead to dental issues like gum disease, uneven wear, and jaw pain.

Why Straight Teeth Matter:

Healthier Gums – Crooked teeth trap plaque and bacteria, increasing the risk of gum disease. Straight teeth are much easier to clean!
Less Jaw Pain (TMJ Issues) – Misaligned teeth can lead to jaw discomfort, headaches, and grinding.
Lower Risk of Tooth Injury – Protruding teeth are more vulnerable to chipping and damage.
⚖️ Even Wear & Tear – Straight teeth distribute pressure evenly, preventing excessive wear on certain teeth.

How to Straighten Your Smile

Braces – Fixed brackets and wires gradually shift teeth into alignment and work for all types of misalignment.
Clear Aligners – Custom, removable trays are great for mild to moderate corrections and offer a discreet way to straighten teeth.

If you’re considering a straighter, healthier smile, talk to your orthodontist about the best option for you! ✨