FAQs
▸What services does a general dentist provide?
A general dentist provides preventive, restorative, and cosmetic dental care to help patients maintain healthy teeth and gums. Common services include dental exams, cleanings, fillings, crowns, bridges, root canal therapy, gum disease treatment, and tooth replacement options. At David May DDS in Hemet, patients also receive guidance on oral hygiene and preventive care to help detect dental concerns early and support long-term oral health.
▸How can a cosmetic dentist improve my smile?
A cosmetic dentist improves your smile by treating concerns such as stained, chipped, uneven, or misaligned teeth. Popular cosmetic dentistry treatments include teeth whitening, porcelain veneers, dental bonding, and ClearCorrect aligners. At David May DDS in Hemet, personalized treatment plans are designed to improve smile appearance while maintaining natural-looking results and overall oral function.
▸Are dental implants a permanent solution for missing teeth?
Dental implants are considered a long-lasting solution for replacing missing teeth because they are placed directly into the jawbone to function like natural tooth roots. Implants can support crowns, bridges, or dentures while helping preserve jawbone structure and chewing function. With proper oral hygiene and regular dental care, many dental implants can remain successful for many years.
▸How long do dental veneers typically last?
Dental veneers often last 10 to 15 years or longer depending on the material used, oral hygiene habits, and daily wear. Porcelain veneers are especially durable and resistant to staining. Patients can help extend the lifespan of veneers by brushing and flossing regularly, avoiding excessive grinding, and scheduling routine dental checkups to monitor overall oral health. Have more questions? Call us today!
▸Is teeth whitening safe for sensitive teeth?
Professional teeth whitening can often be safely performed for patients with sensitive teeth when treatment is customized by a dental professional. Dentists may recommend lower-strength whitening products or shorter treatment sessions to reduce discomfort. At David May DDS in Hemet, whitening treatments are tailored to each patient’s oral health needs to help improve smile brightness while minimizing sensitivity.
▸When is a root canal treatment necessary?
Root canal treatment may be necessary when the inner pulp of a tooth becomes infected or inflamed due to deep decay, trauma, or cracks. Common symptoms include severe tooth pain, swelling, prolonged sensitivity, or discomfort while chewing. During treatment, the infected tissue is removed, and the tooth is sealed to help prevent further infection and preserve the natural tooth.
▸How do dental crowns help restore damaged teeth?
Dental crowns restore damaged teeth by covering and protecting teeth weakened by decay, fractures, or large fillings. Crowns improve tooth strength, appearance, and chewing function while helping prevent additional damage. Tooth-colored crowns are commonly used because they blend naturally with surrounding teeth and provide long-term durability with proper dental care.
▸What is the difference between a dental bridge and dental implants?
Dental bridges replace missing teeth by using neighboring teeth for support, while dental implants replace missing teeth by anchoring directly into the jawbone. Bridges may be completed more quickly, while implants often provide greater long-term stability and help preserve bone structure. Both treatment options can improve chewing ability, speech, and smile appearance.
▸How does ClearCorrect work to straighten teeth?
ClearCorrect uses a series of removable clear aligners to gradually move teeth into improved alignment without traditional braces. Patients wear custom aligners throughout the day and switch to new trays every few weeks as teeth shift. ClearCorrect can help improve spacing, crowding, overbites, and other mild to moderate orthodontic concerns.
▸What are the common symptoms that may require TMJ treatment?
Common symptoms that may require TMJ treatment include jaw pain, headaches, jaw clicking, facial soreness, difficulty chewing, and limited jaw movement. TMJ disorders may develop from stress, teeth grinding, bite problems, or jaw injuries. Treatment options often include custom nightguards, bite adjustments, and therapies designed to reduce jaw tension and improve comfort.