Frequently Asked Questions

Yes! Our multilingual team can communicate with you in your preferred language, ensuring you fully understand your dental health and treatment options. We believe effective communication is essential to providing excellent care, and we're committed to making every patient feel comfortable and informed regardless of their primary language. We speak English and Spanish fluently

Preparing for your first appointment is simple. Bring a valid ID, your insurance card if you have coverage, and a list of any medications you're currently taking. Arrive a few minutes early to complete any necessary paperwork, or ask about completing forms online beforehand. Brush and floss before your appointment.

If you have specific concerns or questions about your oral health, write them down so you remember to discuss them with your dentist. Most importantly, relax! Our friendly team will make you feel welcome and comfortable from the moment you walk through our door.

Yes! We understand that dental emergencies can't wait. East Lake Family Dental offers same day emergency appointments for urgent dental concerns. We have openings available for emergency exams and can often provide treatment the same day, depending on what's needed. If you're experiencing a dental emergency, contact us right away and we'll get you in as quickly as possible.

A comprehensive dental checkup typically takes about 60 minutes. This includes your professional cleaning, digital x-rays (if needed), thorough examination, oral cancer screening, and time to discuss any findings or questions with your dentist. We respect your time and run our schedule efficiently while never rushing through your care. If you have time constraints, let us know when scheduling and we'll do our best to accommodate your needs.

Oral cancer screening is a quick, painless examination that can save lives through early detection. When caught early, oral cancer is highly treatable. During your checkup, we examine your mouth, tongue, throat, and surrounding tissues for any unusual changes or abnormalities. Regular screenings are especially important if you use tobacco, consume alcohol frequently, or have a family history of cancer.

We accept Aetna, Ameritas, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna, Florida Combined Life, Freedom Life, GEHA, Guardian, Humana, MetLife, Mutual of Omaha, Principal, Sunlife, UnitedHealthcare, Unum insurance plans. Our knowledgeable team will work with your insurance provider to maximize your benefits and minimize your out-of-pocket costs. We'll verify your coverage before your appointment and explain what your plan covers so there are no surprises.

Yes, digital X-rays are extremely safe and actually expose you to up to 90% less radiation than traditional film X-rays. They provide detailed, high-quality images that help us detect problems early and plan effective treatment. The small amount of radiation from dental X-rays is comparable to the radiation you're exposed to during a short airplane flight. We only take x-rays when necessary for your diagnosis and care.

Absolutely! We proudly serve patients of all ages, from infants as young as three months to seniors. Our family scheduling makes it convenient to book appointments for multiple family members on the same day. This saves you time and ensures everyone in your household receives consistent, quality dental care from providers who know your family's dental history.

New patients can take advantage of our $99 special that includes a complete exam, digital x-rays, and professional cleaning. For established patients, checkup costs vary depending on your insurance coverage. We accept most major insurance plans including Metlife, Aetna, Cigna, United Healthcare, BCBS and many more. Our team will verify your benefits and provide a cost estimate before your appointment.

Don't let lack of insurance prevent you from getting the dental care you need. We offer flexible financing options through CareCredit and Cherry to make dental care affordable for everyone. We also accept cash and credit cards. Our new patient special is an excellent value at just $99 for a comprehensive checkup, and our team can discuss payment plans for any additional treatment you may need.

Yes. We know “root canal” can sound scary, especially if you have had a bad past experience. We take extra time to talk through the steps, use a gentle touch, and offer comforts like blankets, pillows, and TVs. For patients with higher anxiety, we can discuss medication options to help you feel more relaxed during treatment.

In most cases, yes. A crown helps protect the tooth and prevent it from cracking after the inside has been cleaned out. Front teeth that still have strong structure may sometimes do well with a large filling. We will explain what is best for your specific tooth.

Yes, sometimes a permanent tooth in a child can become infected and need root canal treatment. We treat kids with the same calm, gentle approach we use for adults and explain everything in age-appropriate terms. Parents are always welcome in the room so your child feels supported.

An infected tooth will not heal on its own. The infection can spread, leading to more pain, swelling, bone loss, and sometimes serious health problems. Waiting often means more complex and more expensive treatment later, or losing the tooth. A root canal is the best way to stop the infection and keep your natural tooth.

Yes. If you have severe pain, swelling, or a broken tooth, call us right away. We reserve time for emergencies and will do our best to see you the same day. In many cases, we can start treatment at that visit to help you feel better quickly.

The cost depends on which tooth is involved and how complex the infection is. Back teeth generally cost more than front teeth because they have more roots. We accept many major insurance plans, and most cover part of root canal therapy. Our team will check your benefits, explain your estimated portion, and talk with you about payment options before you decide.

Many root canals take about 60 to 90 minutes, depending on the tooth and how complex the case is. Front teeth often take less time than back teeth, which have more roots. We work carefully but efficiently so you are not in the chair any longer than needed.

Most patients are surprised by how routine it feels. With modern anesthesia and gentle techniques, a root canal usually feels similar to getting a filling. The procedure is designed to stop the pain, not cause it. Most people feel relief soon after treatment.

Caring for implants is similar to caring for natural teeth. You should brush twice a day with a soft toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste and floss once a day around the implant and nearby teeth. Regular checkups and cleanings allow us to keep an eye on the health of the gums and bone around your implants and to remove buildup you cannot reach at home.

If you clench or grind your teeth, we may recommend a nightguard to protect both your implants and your natural teeth.

Bone loss does not always mean you cannot have implants. In many cases, we can rebuild the area with a bone graft to create a stronger base for the implant. Your CBCT scan helps us measure your bone and decide whether grafting is needed. If it is, we will explain how that step works, how it affects your timeline, and what kind of result you can expect.

With modern anesthesia, most patients are comfortable during implant placement and feel only pressure or mild movement, not sharp pain. After the procedure, it is normal to feel a little tenderness on the gum, but discomfort is significantly less than a tooth extraction. Over-the-counter pain medicine is usually enough to manage this discomfort and most of our patients don’t even need that. Our team will give you simple instructions and invite you to call if anything feels unusual.

Most implant treatments take several months from start to finish, for the typical patient it is about 4-6 months. The placement visit itself often takes less than an hour. This healing stage commonly takes a few months, and once everything is stable, we place your final crown or restoration. We will give you a personalized timeline based on your specific case so you have a clear idea of each step.

The cost of dental implants depends on how many teeth you are replacing, which teeth are involved, and whether you need steps like bone grafting. A single implant usually costs about $4500, for patients without insurance. At your consultation, we will review your images, outline the plan, and give you a written estimate so you know what to expect before you begin. Our team can also review your insurance benefits and talk with you about payment options.

When performed by trained providers with the right products and technique, cosmetic injections have a strong safety record. Our team follows strict protocols and uses only reputable products. We review your health history in advance and make sure you are a good candidate before we begin.

No — our goal is a natural, relaxed look. We use conservative doses and focus on softening specific lines while keeping your normal expressions. You should still look like yourself, just a bit smoother and more rested.

Cosmetic injections are usually very quick and feel like small pinches or tiny stings. The needles are fine, and most people tolerate the treatment well. If you are worried about discomfort, we can use numbing and take our time to keep you comfortable.

Most patients notice smoother lines for about three to four months, though results vary by person and treatment area. With regular visits, some patients feel their results last a bit longer over time. We’ll help you plan a schedule that matches your goals and lifestyle.

When done by trained providers who understand jaw and facial anatomy, TMJ injections have an excellent safety record. Our doctors have specific training and experience with therapeutic use. We always review your medical history first to make sure this option is appropriate for you.

TMJ-focused injections can greatly reduce clenching and grinding for many patients, especially at night. In some cases, we still recommend a nightguard to protect your teeth, fillings, and crowns from wear. Your doctor will let you know whether injections, a nightguard, or a combination is best for your situation.

Most patients feel only brief pinches or mild pressure during TMJ injections. The needles are very small, and appointments are short. If you feel anxious about discomfort, let us know — we can use numbing and move slowly to help you stay at ease.

Most patients feel relief for about three to four months, but this can vary from person to person. TMJ-related comfort often feels strongest in the first few months and can be maintained with touch-up visits. During your consultation, we’ll talk about what timing is realistic for you and how often you may want treatment.

Yes, you can get veneers on as few or as many teeth as you like. Some patients choose to enhance just one or two teeth that are discolored or damaged, while others prefer a complete smile makeover with veneers on all visible front teeth. When placing veneers on select teeth, our St. Cloud dental team carefully matches the color and shape to blend seamlessly with your surrounding natural teeth.

We discuss your options during your consultation and create a treatment plan that achieves your desired results while respecting your budget and preferences.

Most dental insurance plans consider veneers a cosmetic procedure and do not provide coverage. However, if veneers are needed to restore a tooth damaged by injury or decay, your insurance may cover a portion of the cost. Our knowledgeable team at East Lake Family Dental works with many insurance providers including Metlife, Aetna, Cigna, United Healthcare, BCBS and many more. We're happy to review your specific policy and help you understand your benefits.

Even without insurance coverage, our flexible financing options make veneers affordable for most budgets.

Veneers, crowns, and bonding all improve tooth appearance but serve different purposes. Veneers cover only the front surface of teeth and are ideal for cosmetic enhancement of healthy teeth. Crowns cover the entire tooth and are typically used when a tooth is significantly damaged or weakened. Dental bonding applies tooth-colored resin directly to teeth in a single visit and is best for minor repairs.

Veneers offer a middle ground, providing dramatic cosmetic improvement with moderate tooth preparation. Our dentists help you understand which option best addresses your specific dental needs.

Caring for veneers is simple and similar to caring for your natural teeth. Brush twice daily with a non-abrasive toothpaste and floss once daily to remove plaque and prevent gum disease. Visit our St. Cloud office every six months for professional cleanings and checkups. Avoid using your veneered teeth to bite hard objects like ice, fingernails, or pen caps.

If you grind your teeth at night, we recommend wearing a custom night guard to protect your veneers. With proper care, your veneers will maintain their beautiful appearance for many years.

Most people with cosmetic concerns about their front teeth are good candidates for veneers. Ideal candidates have healthy teeth and gums, adequate tooth enamel, and realistic expectations about results. Veneers work well for addressing discoloration, chips, gaps, and minor misalignment. However, if you have significant tooth decay, gum disease, or severe teeth grinding, we may need to address these issues first.

During your consultation at East Lake Family Dental, we thoroughly evaluate your oral health and discuss whether veneers are the right solution for your smile goals.

Traditional porcelain veneers are highly resistant to staining and maintain their bright appearance for years. The non-porous surface of porcelain doesn't absorb pigments from coffee, tea, wine, or other staining substances the way natural tooth enamel does. Composite veneers are more susceptible to staining over time but can be polished to restore their brightness.

Regardless of which type you choose, maintaining good oral hygiene and attending regular cleanings at our St. Cloud office helps keep your veneers looking their best.

The lifespan of your veneers depends on the type you choose and how well you care for them. Traditional porcelain veneers typically last 10 to 15 years or longer with proper maintenance. Composite veneers generally last 5 to 7 years before they may need replacement or refinishing. Factors that affect veneer longevity include your oral hygiene habits, diet, whether you grind your teeth, and regular dental checkups.

At East Lake Family Dental, we provide comprehensive care instructions to help you maximize the life of your investment.

Most patients experience minimal discomfort during the veneer process. We use local anesthesia when preparing your teeth to ensure you feel no pain during the procedure. After the anesthesia wears off, you may notice some sensitivity to temperature, especially while wearing temporary veneers. This sensitivity is normal and temporary. Once your permanent veneers are placed, any discomfort typically resolves within a few days. Our gentle approach and patient-centered care ensure your experience is as comfortable as possible.

Traditional porcelain veneers are custom-made in a dental laboratory and require two or more visits. They offer superior stain resistance, durability, and a highly natural appearance that can last 10 to 15 years or more. Composite veneers are made from tooth-colored resin material and can often be completed in a single visit. They are more affordable and require less tooth preparation, but typically last 5 to 7 years.

Our St. Cloud dental team helps you choose the option that best fits your goals, timeline, and budget.

The cost of veneers varies depending on the type you choose and how many teeth you want to enhance. Traditional porcelain veneers typically cost more than composite veneers but offer greater longevity and stain resistance. During your consultation, we provide a detailed cost estimate tailored to your specific treatment plan. We offer flexible financing through Care Credit and Cherry to make veneers accessible and affordable.

Many patients find that spreading payments over time makes their dream smile achievable within their budget.

If your crown feels loose or comes off, save the crown and call our office as soon as you can. Avoid chewing on that side until we see you. In many cases, we can clean the area and re-cement the crown; if it’s damaged, we’ll discuss whether a new one is needed.

A veneer covers only the front surface of a tooth and is usually used for cosmetic changes. A crown covers the whole tooth above the gumline and is used when a tooth needs both protection and cosmetic improvement. If the tooth is badly damaged or weak, a crown is usually the safer choice.

The procedure itself should not be painful because we numb the tooth and the area around it. You may feel some gentle pressure or vibration while we work, but not sharp pain. Afterward, it’s common to feel a bit sore or sensitive for a few days, which usually improves with time and over-the-counter pain relief if needed.

Most dental insurance plans cover part of the cost of a crown when it’s needed to restore a damaged tooth. Coverage varies by plan, but many help with a percentage of the fee. Our team will check your benefits, explain what your plan covers, and review your estimated portion before treatment starts.

Porcelain crowns do not respond to whitening gels like natural teeth do. Their color stays the same over time. If you are thinking about whitening, we often recommend doing that first so we can match your new crown to your brighter tooth shade.

Modern porcelain is very strong and works well for many front and back teeth. In some heavy-bite areas, we may recommend different materials or designs, but for most patients porcelain provides a great mix of strength and natural appearance. Your doctor will recommend what’s best based on the tooth and how you chew.

With good brushing, flossing, and regular checkups, many porcelain crowns last 10–15 years or longer. Their lifespan depends on how well you care for them, your bite, and whether you grind your teeth. We’ll check your crown at each visit to help it last as long as possible.

For the first 24 to 48 hours after whitening, we recommend avoiding foods and beverages that could stain your teeth, as your enamel is more porous immediately after treatment. This includes coffee, tea, red wine, dark sodas, berries, tomato sauce, and other highly pigmented items. Stick to lighter-colored foods like chicken, fish, white rice, pasta with white sauce, and clear beverages.

We'll provide you with a comprehensive list of foods to enjoy and avoid during the initial healing period. After this time, you can gradually return to your normal diet while practicing good oral hygiene to maintain your results.

The cost of professional teeth whitening varies depending on the extent of treatment needed and your specific goals. At East Lake Family Dental, we believe everyone deserves a confident smile, which is why we offer flexible financing options through CareCredit and Cherry. During your consultation, we'll provide a detailed cost estimate and discuss payment options that fit your budget.

Many patients find that the superior results and convenience of professional whitening make it an excellent investment in their appearance and confidence.

Professional teeth whitening offers significant advantages over store-bought products. Our Zoom! whitening system uses higher-concentration whitening agents that deliver faster, more dramatic results. Professional treatment is customized to your specific needs and performed under expert supervision to ensure safety and effectiveness. Over-the-counter products often produce uneven results, take weeks to show improvement, and may cause sensitivity if used incorrectly. With professional whitening, you'll achieve superior results in a fraction of the time.

Tooth discoloration occurs for many reasons, including consumption of staining foods and beverages, tobacco use, natural aging, certain medications, and genetics. As we age, our tooth enamel naturally thins, allowing the yellowish dentin layer beneath to show through. External stains from coffee, tea, red wine, and dark-colored foods accumulate on the tooth surface over time. Some medications, particularly certain antibiotics taken during childhood, can cause intrinsic staining that affects the inner tooth structure.

A complete Zoom! whitening treatment typically takes about 60 to 90 minutes from start to finish. This includes preparation time, the whitening application, and final cleanup. The actual whitening process involves multiple short sessions with the whitening gel and activation light. This makes professional whitening a convenient option for busy schedules, as you can achieve dramatic results in a single lunch break or afternoon appointment.

Teeth whitening works on natural tooth enamel but does not change the color of dental restorations like crowns, veneers, or fillings. If you have visible restorations in your smile, we'll discuss how whitening will affect your overall appearance. In some cases, patients choose to whiten their natural teeth first, then replace old restorations to match their new, brighter smile. We'll help you create a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses all your cosmetic concerns.

Results vary depending on your starting tooth shade and the type of staining you have. Most patients achieve teeth that are several shades whiter after just one Zoom! whitening session. During your consultation, we'll assess your current shade and discuss realistic expectations for your specific situation. Surface stains from coffee, tea, and tobacco typically respond very well to whitening, while some intrinsic stains may require additional treatments.

Some patients experience temporary tooth sensitivity during or after whitening treatment, but this typically subsides within a few days. Our team takes special precautions to minimize sensitivity, and we can adjust the treatment if you experience discomfort. We'll also recommend desensitizing products and provide aftercare tips to help you manage any sensitivity. If you have a history of sensitive teeth, let us know during your consultation so we can customize your treatment accordingly.

Yes, professional teeth whitening is safe when performed by experienced dental professionals. At East Lake Family Dental, we use proven Zoom! whitening technology that's been extensively tested for safety and effectiveness. Our team carefully monitors the treatment to protect your tooth enamel and gum tissue throughout the process. Unlike some harsh over-the-counter products, professional whitening is designed to brighten your teeth without causing damage.

Professional Zoom! whitening results typically last from six months to two years, depending on your lifestyle habits and oral hygiene routine. Patients who avoid staining foods and beverages, practice good oral hygiene, and attend regular dental cleanings tend to maintain their results longer. We can provide touch-up treatments to refresh your smile whenever needed.

While we focus on creating a calm, supportive environment to help anxious patients feel at ease, our primary sedation method for emergency visits is local anesthesia. If you have significant dental anxiety, please let our team know so we can take extra steps to help you feel comfortable and relaxed throughout your visit.

Yes! We welcome new patients experiencing dental emergencies and will do our best to accommodate you with a same day appointment. You don't need to be an established patient to receive emergency care at East Lake Family Dental. Our team treats everyone with the same compassionate, professional care regardless of whether you're a long-time patient or visiting us for the first time.

Please bring your photo ID, dental insurance card if you have coverage, a list of any medications you're currently taking, and any relevant medical history information. If you have a knocked-out tooth or broken tooth fragments, bring those with you as well. If you're a new patient, arriving a few minutes early to complete paperwork will help us serve you more efficiently. Don't worry if you can't gather everything in an emergency situation—we'll work with what you have to get you the care you need.

We accept multiple payment methods to make emergency dental care accessible and convenient. You can pay with cash, all major credit cards, Care Credit, or Cherry financing. We also work with most major dental insurance providers including Metlife, Aetna, Cigna, United Healthcare, and BCBS. Our knowledgeable staff will help you understand your insurance benefits and explore financing options to ensure you receive the treatment you need without financial stress.

Depending on your specific treatment, you may need a follow-up appointment to ensure proper healing or to complete additional phases of care. For example, if you receive an emergency extraction, we may want to see you again to discuss tooth replacement options like dental implants. If you undergo root canal therapy, you may need a crown placement at a subsequent visit. Our team will clearly explain any necessary follow-up care and schedule appointments that work with your schedule.

Most emergency treatments can be completed during your same day visit, depending on the nature of your dental concern. We perform emergency tooth extractions, root canal therapy to save infected teeth, treatment for dental abscesses, repair of broken or chipped teeth with fillings or bonding, replacement of lost crowns or fillings, and management of soft tissue injuries. Our practice is equipped with advanced technology and experienced dentists to handle a wide range of urgent dental situations efficiently.

Absolutely! East Lake Family Dental is a true family practice, and we welcome patients of all ages for emergency dental care, including infants as young as three months, toddlers, school-age children, and teens. Our experienced dentists are skilled in treating pediatric dental emergencies such as knocked-out baby teeth, toothaches, dental injuries from falls or sports, and broken teeth. Our friendly, gentle approach helps children feel comfortable even during stressful emergency situations.

The cost of your emergency visit depends on the nature of your dental emergency and the treatment required. We accept most major insurance plans including Metlife, Aetna, Cigna, United Healthcare, and BCBS, and our team will work to verify your benefits and maximize your coverage. For patients without insurance or those needing help with out-of-pocket costs, we offer flexible financing through Care Credit and Cherry. We believe cost should never prevent you from receiving necessary emergency care.

If you experience a dental emergency outside our regular business hours of Monday through Friday 8am to 6pm, please call our office and leave a message describing your emergency. For severe emergencies involving uncontrolled bleeding, difficulty breathing, or significant facial swelling, please visit your nearest emergency room. Contact our office first thing the next business day, and we'll schedule you for the earliest available appointment to address your dental concern.

We offer same day emergency appointments for urgent dental needs. When you call our office, our team will work to schedule you as quickly as possible, often the same day you contact us. We understand that dental emergencies require immediate attention, and we prioritize getting you out of pain fast. With same day and same week availability, you won't have to wait long to receive the care you need.