FAQ
Insurance & Financing
How Do I Apply for Financing?
Applying for financing is simple and quick. You can apply for Sunbit, CareCredit, or Cherry financing directly at our office or online before your appointment. Our team is happy to guide you through the process to ensure you choose the best plan for your needs.
What Financing Options Do You Offer?
We offer Sunbit and Cherry payment plans, which allow you to spread the cost of your dental care over time. These plans are quick to apply for, with flexible terms that cater to your financial needs.
Do You Take Insurance?
Our practice operates on a fee-for-service basis, which allows us to provide the highest level of personalized care. For your convenience, we offer a range of payment and financing options to make treatments affordable.
Dental Checkups
How often should I get a dental checkup?
We recommend seeing Dr. Beckford for a checkup every six months to maintain optimal oral health and catch potential issues early.
What should I expect during my first dental checkup?
Your first visit includes a comprehensive exam, digital X-rays, oral cancer screening, and personalized treatment recommendations based on your unique needs.
What is the purpose of an oral cancer screening?
Oral cancer screenings help detect early signs of cancer, improving the chances of successful treatment. We include this as a routine part of your checkup.
Do dental checkups hurt?
No, dental checkups are generally painless. We use gentle techniques and modern tools to ensure your comfort during the exam and cleaning.
What happens if you find a cavity or other issue during the checkup?
If we discover any dental problems, Dr. Beckford will discuss treatment options with you and create a personalized plan to restore your oral health.
How long does a dental checkup usually take?
A typical dental checkup lasts about 45 minutes to an hour, depending on your specific needs and any additional treatments.
Are dental X-rays safe?
Yes, digital X-rays use minimal radiation and are a safe, essential part of diagnosing hidden issues like cavities or bone loss.
What are the signs that I need a dental checkup sooner than six months?
If you’re experiencing tooth pain, bleeding gums, sensitivity, or bad breath, it's important to schedule a checkup right away.
What if I’m nervous about dental visits?
We understand dental anxiety and offer amenities like Dream Dental virtual reality to help you relax during your visit. Our team is dedicated to making your experience as comfortable as possible.
Smile Makeovers
How long does a smile makeover take?
The length of your smile makeover depends on the treatments involved. Some patients see results in as little as a few weeks, while more comprehensive makeovers may take several months.
Is a smile makeover painful?
Most cosmetic treatments are minimally invasive and cause little to no discomfort. We use advanced techniques and tools to ensure a comfortable experience during your procedures.
How much does a smile makeover cost?
The cost varies based on the treatments you choose. Dr. Beckford works with you to create a treatment plan that fits your budget, and we offer flexible financing options through Sunbit, CareCredit,and Cherry.
Can I finance my smile makeover?
Yes! We offer flexible financing through Sunbit and Cherry, making it easy to afford the smile you’ve always wanted without financial stress.
Will my results look natural?
Absolutely! Our goal is to create a smile that looks natural and enhances your unique features. We use high-quality materials and advanced techniques to ensure your smile makeover looks and feels great.
Sleep Apnea Treatment
How do snoring devices work?
Snoring devices, like mandibular advancement devices, gently reposition your jaw to keep your airway open, reducing snoring and improving sleep quality.
Can a snoring device replace CPAP therapy?
For many patients with obstructive sleep apnea, a custom oral appliance can be an effective alternative to CPAP machines, offering a more comfortable and non-invasive solution.
How long does it take to get a snoring device?
Typically, it takes two visits to receive your custom device. After your initial consultation and impressions, the device will be ready for fitting within a week.
Is sleep apnea treatment covered by medical insurance?
While we are a fee-for-service practice, we offer flexible financing options through Sunbit and Cherry to help make your treatment affordable.
What are the risks of untreated sleep apnea?
Untreated sleep apnea can lead to serious health issues, including high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Getting treatment can significantly improve your health and quality of life.
Do snoring devices take time to adjust to?
It may take a few nights to get used to wearing the device, but most patients find it comfortable and easy to incorporate into their nightly routine.
Invisalign
How long does Invisalign treatment take?
Invisalign treatment typically lasts between 12-18 months, depending on your individual needs. Dr. Beckford will give you a more precise timeline during your consultation.
Is Invisalign suitable for adults?
Yes! Invisalign is an excellent choice for adults who want a discreet way to straighten their teeth without traditional braces.
Can I eat while wearing Invisalign aligners?
No, you should remove your aligners before eating or drinking anything other than water. This helps prevent damage to the trays and keeps them clean.
How often do I need to visit the dentist during Invisalign treatment?
You’ll typically need to see Dr. Beckford every 6-8 weeks to monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments.
Is Invisalign painful?
Invisalign is generally more comfortable than traditional braces. You may feel slight pressure when you switch to a new set of trays, but this usually goes away within a day or two.
How much does Invisalign cost?
The cost of Invisalign varies depending on the complexity of your case. However, we offer flexible financing through Sunbit, CareCredit, and Cherry to make your treatment more affordable.
Veneers
How long do porcelain veneers last?
With proper care, porcelain veneers can last 15-20 years before needing to be replaced.
Are veneers painful?
The procedure is generally painless, and we offer local anesthesia to ensure your comfort during the enamel removal process.
How do I care for my veneers?
Caring for veneers is easy—just brush and floss as you normally would. Be mindful of biting hard objects, and visit Dr. Beckford for regular checkups.
Can veneers fix crooked teeth?
Veneers can improve the appearance of minor misalignment, but if you have significant orthodontic issues, treatments like Invisalign may be recommended.
How much do veneers cost?
The cost of veneers varies depending on your individual case. We offer flexible financing options through Sunbit, CareCredit, and Cherry to make treatment more affordable.
Dental Implants
How long do dental implants last?
With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime. Regular dental checkups and good oral hygiene are essential to maintaining their longevity.
Am I a good candidate for dental implants?
Most people with healthy gums and sufficient bone density are good candidates for dental implants. Dr. Beckford will assess your oral health during your consultation to determine if implants are right for you.
How long does the dental implant process take?
The dental implant process typically takes several months, as it involves a healing period for the implant to fuse with your jawbone. Dr. Beckford will give you a detailed timeline during your consultation.
Are dental implants painful?
Most patients experience minimal discomfort during the implant procedure, which is typically performed under local anesthesia. Any post-procedure discomfort is manageable with over-the-counter pain relief.
How much do dental implants cost?
The cost of dental implants varies depending on the number of implants and your specific needs. We offer flexible financing options through Sunbit, CareCredit, and Cherry to make treatment affordable.
Teeth Whitening
How long do teeth whitening results last?
With proper care, the results of professional teeth whitening can last for several months. Regular cleanings and good oral hygiene will help maintain your bright smile.
Is teeth whitening safe?
Yes, professional teeth whitening is safe and effective when performed by a qualified dentist. Our Sapphire™ Whitening system is designed to minimize sensitivity while delivering powerful results.
Can teeth whitening remove deep stains?
Yes! Professional whitening is effective at removing deep, stubborn stains caused by foods, beverages, and smoking. The Sapphire™ Whitening system penetrates enamel to break apart even the most difficult stains.
How much does teeth whitening cost?
The cost of teeth whitening varies, but we offer flexible financing options through Sunbit, CareCredit, and Cherry to make treatment affordable for all our patients.
Will teeth whitening make my teeth sensitive?
Some patients may experience mild sensitivity after whitening, but this usually subsides within a day or two. Our Sapphire™ Whitening system is gentle on enamel to reduce the risk of sensitivity.
Emergency Dentistry
What should I do if I break a tooth?
Rinse your mouth with warm water, apply a cold compress to reduce swelling, and contact our office immediately for emergency care.
Can a knocked-out tooth be saved?
Yes, but time is critical. Try to place the tooth back in its socket or store it in milk. Call us right away for a same-day appointment to increase the chances of saving the tooth.
How do I know if I need emergency dental care?
If you’re experiencing severe pain, swelling, or trauma to your teeth, gums, or jaw, you likely need emergency care. Contact our office for guidance and immediate attention.
What happens during an emergency dental appointment?
We will evaluate your condition, provide pain relief, and recommend the necessary treatment to restore your oral health. Follow-up care may be needed depending on the issue.
Is emergency dental care expensive?
The cost varies depending on the treatment, but we offer flexible financing options to make emergency dental care affordable. Ask us about payment plans during your visit.