Spicewood Dental FAQ

Q: What should I expect at my first dental appointment at Spicewood Dental in Austin, TX?

At your first visit, our team will review your medical and dental history, take digital X-rays, and perform a complete oral exam including an oral-cancer screening. You'll discuss your goals for health and aesthetics, and we'll outline a personalized treatment plan with clear insurance or financing options. Our goal is to make your first experience as comfortable and informative as possible.

Q: How often should I come in for check-ups and cleanings?

That depends on you. Most patients prefer to be proactive, visiting every few months to stay on top of the health of their teeth. We'll talk about what feels right based on your health, goals, and recommendations from your family dentist in Austin, TX.

Q: Do you accept new patients and families?

Absolutely! We love welcoming new patients — kids, adults, and everyone in between. Our goal is to create an experience that feels personal and comfortable for every member of your family. If you’re searching for a trusted family dentist in Austin, TX, we’re here to help!

Q: What insurance and payment options do you accept?

We'll always be upfront about costs before moving forward with any treatment. If you have dental insurance, we'll do everything possible to maximize your benefits. Insurance or not, we offer flexible options to fit your budget.

Q: What should I bring to my first visit?

Bring any information that helps us get to know you better — your photo ID, a list of medications or allergies, any recent X-rays, and your dental insurance card (if applicable).

Q: Do you offer specialized dental care for older adults in Austin, TX?

Yes. Our Austin dental team provides gentle, comprehensive care for older adults. We focus on gum health, dry mouth management, maintaining dental restorations, and ensuring dentures fit comfortably. Regular visits help preserve oral function and confidence as you age. Regular visits with a trusted family dentist in Austin, TX, help preserve long-term oral function and confidence as you age.

Q: What are the most common dental concerns for seniors?

Many older adults experience increased tooth sensitivity, dry mouth, gum recession, and difficulty with existing fillings or dentures. These issues can make daily care harder, but with consistent checkups and personalized treatment, they can be managed effectively.

Q: When should my child have their first dental visit?

Children should see the dentist by their first birthday or within six months after their first tooth appears. Early visits help identify growth patterns, teach good brushing habits, and prevent small issues from becoming larger problems.

Q: How often should children visit the dentist?

Most kids should come in every six months for cleanings and exams. These visits allow us to track development, apply fluoride, and place sealants for cavity prevention. Some children with higher cavity risk may benefit from more frequent checkups.

Q: Are fluoride treatments and sealants safe for children?

Yes. Both fluoride and sealants are safe and highly effective in protecting children's teeth from decay. Sealants shield hard-to-brush molars, and fluoride strengthens enamel against acid and bacteria.

Q: What preventive dental services do you offer?

We provide routine cleanings, comprehensive exams, fluoride treatments, sealants for cavity protection, oral-cancer screenings, and custom mouthguards or nightguards. All preventive services support strong oral health and are part of our preventive and cosmetic dentistry approach.

Q: How can I prevent cavities and tooth decay?

Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, floss every day, and limit sugary foods or drinks. Drinking water after meals helps rinse away residue. Regular dental cleanings are essential for long-term cavity prevention.

Q: Why are regular dental checkups important?

Checkups are an important part of both preventative and cosmetic dentistry, allowing your dentist to identify small issues before they become major problems. They also help maintain gum health, prevent decay, and ensure your smile looks and feels its best.

Q: What should I do if my gums bleed when I brush or floss?

Bleeding gums are often an early sign of gingivitis. Maintain gentle brushing and daily flossing for a week; if bleeding continues, schedule a professional cleaning. Early treatment prevents more advanced gum disease.

Q: Are fluoride treatments and sealants beneficial for adults?

Yes. Fluoride strengthens enamel and sealants protect against decay in hard-to-reach grooves. They're especially helpful for patients prone to cavities.

Q: What cosmetic dentistry options are available at Spicewood Dental?

We offer professional teeth whitening, porcelain veneers, smile makeovers, and cosmetic bonding as part of our comprehensive preventative and cosmetic dentistry services. Each treatment enhances your smile's color, shape, and overall balance for a confident, natural look.

Q: Which is better: in-office or at-home teeth whitening?

In-office whitening produces immediate results, while at-home treatments offer gradual whitening with reduced sensitivity. Both options are safe and effective under professional guidance.

Q: How long do whitening results last?

Results typically last six months or more with good oral hygiene and regular cleanings. Avoiding staining foods and drinks can extend your results. Ask our Austin dental team how to maintain your whitening results over time.

Q: Are porcelain veneers permanent and how do they work?

Veneers are thin porcelain shells bonded to the front of teeth to improve shape and color. They are durable, stain-resistant, and can last a decade or longer with proper care.

Q: Can I combine cosmetic treatments for a full smile makeover?

Yes. Many patients pair whitening with veneers or bonding for a complete aesthetic transformation. Your dentist will design a customized plan based on your goals.

Q: What restorative treatments do you offer?

We provide tooth-colored fillings, same-day crowns, bridges, dentures, and implant restorations on existing implant posts. These treatments repair damage, restore function, and bring comfort back to your smile.

Q: What are same-day crowns in Austin, TX?

At Spicewood Dental, our same-day crowns use advanced digital imaging and in-office milling to design and place your crown in a single visit — part of our modern dental technology and comfort experience.

Q: Do you place dental implants?

We do not surgically place dental implant posts. However, we do provide high-quality implant restorations, including crowns, bridges, and repairs for implants already placed by a specialist. If you need a crown for an existing implant or your implant restoration is damaged or loose, we can help.

Q: How long do crowns or bridges last?

With proper home care and routine dental checkups, crowns and bridges can last 10–15 years or longer. Avoid chewing very hard objects and visit us regularly so we can help maintain your restoration.

Q: What is the difference between a dental implant and a bridge?

A dental implant includes a surgically placed post in the jawbone that acts as an artificial root, while a bridge relies on neighboring teeth for support. We restore implants once the post has already been placed, and we also design custom bridges for patients who prefer or need a non-surgical option.

Q: Can you repair or replace old dentures, bridges, or implant crowns?

Absolutely. Whether you have worn dentures, a damaged bridge, or a loose or broken implant crown, we can repair, reline, or replace the restoration. If your implant post was placed elsewhere, we can still restore it with a new custom crown for a comfortable, natural-looking fit. Schedule an evaluation and we'll recommend the best solution.

Q: What sedation options are available for anxious patients?

We offer nitrous oxide to make dental care more comfortable for nervous patients who are seeking sedation and emergency dental care support.

Q: Is nitrous oxide conscious sedation safe?

Yes. Nitrous oxide is one of the safest and most common forms of conscious sedation used in dentistry. It helps reduce anxiety, ease gag reflexes, and make dental procedures more comfortable while keeping you awake and responsive. Nitrous works quickly, wears off fast, and is fully adjustable. Our dental team carefully monitors your comfort and sedation level throughout your visit to ensure a safe, relaxing experience.

Q: Can children receive sedation for dental procedures?

In select cases, yes. Light sedation options like nitrous oxide are safe for children when administered by experienced professionals.

Q: Can I drive after conscious sedation dentistry?

Patients receiving nitrous oxide can usually drive themselves after the effects wear off.

Q: What should I do if I have a dental emergency in Austin, TX?

If you experience severe pain, swelling, or a knocked-out tooth, call us immediately. Acting quickly improves the likelihood of saving the tooth and prevents complications. Our emergency dental team in Austin provides sedation and emergency dental care with same-day availability.

Q: What counts as a dental emergency?

Tooth pain, broken teeth, lost fillings, and gum swelling all qualify as emergencies. When in doubt, contact a dentist right away for guidance.

Q: How fast can I be seen for an emergency?

We reserve time daily for urgent cases and offer same-day and weekend appointments whenever possible.

Q: Can you fix a broken or chipped tooth?

Yes. Depending on the severity, we can often restore the tooth with bonding, a crown, or a veneer during the same visit.

Q: How should I handle a knocked-out tooth before reaching the dentist?

Keep the tooth moist in milk or saline and avoid touching the root. Arrive within 30 minutes for the best chance of saving it.

Q: What dental technologies do you use?

We utilize modern dental technology such as digital X-rays, CEREC® systems for same-day crowns, intraoral cameras, and advanced polishing tools for precise, efficient care.

Q: Are digital dental X-rays safe?

Yes. They use up to 80% less radiation than traditional film and provide clearer images for faster, more accurate diagnosis.

Q: What makes Spicewood Dental different from other Austin dentists?

Our practice combines modern dental technology with personalized, compassionate care. Patients appreciate our gentle approach and long-term focus on comfort and results.

Q: How do you ensure quality and consistency?

We follow strict procedural standards, use premium materials, and prioritize continuing education to stay at the forefront of dental care. Experience high-quality dentistry by visiting our Austin office for your next checkup.

Q: How often should I replace my toothbrush or brush head?

Replace your toothbrush every three months, or sooner if bristles fray. After an illness, always use a new one to prevent bacteria from spreading.

Q: What's the best way to care for my teeth between visits?

Brush twice daily for two full minutes, floss once a day, and rinse after meals. Consistency is key to keeping your smile healthy.

Q: How can I prevent cavities and tooth decay at home?

Limit sugary snacks, use fluoride toothpaste, and chew sugar-free gum to encourage saliva flow. Regular professional cleanings will reinforce your efforts.

Q: How can I keep my gums healthy and prevent bleeding?

Use a soft-bristled brush, floss carefully, and avoid harsh scrubbing. Persistent bleeding may signal gum inflammation and should be evaluated by a dentist.

Q: Is mouthwash necessary for oral health?

While not a replacement for brushing or flossing, mouthwash can reduce bacteria, freshen breath, and strengthen enamel. Choose a fluoride or antibacterial rinse recommended by your dentist.