Appointments & New Patients
Here are list of commonly asked questions that our office staff have conveniently compiled for new and existing patients. As always, we can further explain to clarify your concerns
How can I make an appointment?
Use our online booking tool found here to conveniently book an open slot.
I want to schedule a cleaning with a specific Hygienist?
We always try our best to accommodate our patient preferences, as long as our schedule allows it!.
What is the cancellation policy?
We know things come up! We are flexible with cancellations before 24 hours of your appointment; cancellation fees will apply and may depend on your insurance. General cancellation fee is $50. If you miss your appointment, no show fee is $100. It’s important to communicate any schedule issues as soon as possible!
Do you accept new patients?
Yes! We’re always happy to welcome new patients to West Hollywood Smile Dental. Book online or give us a call and we’ll get you scheduled.
What should I bring to my first visit?
Just bring a photo ID and your insurance card (if you have one). If you have recent X-rays or dental records from a previous dentist, feel free to bring those too, but it’s not required — we’re happy to take our own.
Cost & Insurance
Do you take my insurance?
More than likely, yes — we work with a wide range of insurance plans, including PPO, Medicare, Medicaid (Medi-Cal/Denti-Cal), HMO, EPO and more. If you don’t have insurance, ask us about our in-house Membership Plan for affordable care.
How much do veneers cost?
Porcelain veneers typically range depending on how many teeth you’re treating and the material used. Read our full cost breakdown for an accurate estimate.
How much does a dental implant cost?
The cost of a single dental implant depends on the case, including any bone grafting needed and the type of restoration. See our full pricing guide for typical ranges.
How much does professional teeth whitening cost?
In-office professional whitening costs vary based on the technique used and how many shades you’re looking to lift. See our whitening cost guide for current pricing.
What if I don't have insurance?
No problem. We offer an in-house Membership Plan that gives you a full exam, cleanings, and discounts on other treatments for one low annual fee, no insurance required.
Invisalign or braces — which costs more?
It depends on your case and treatment length, but the two are often closer in price than people expect. Compare Invisalign and braces costs in detail here.
Pain, Comfort & Sedation
Can you put me to sleep?
Our staff and doctor have been trained for oral conscious sedation, ask us more about these type of procedure.
Is a root canal painful?
Most patients feel little to no pain during a root canal thanks to local anesthesia — any discomfort typically comes from the untreated infection beforehand, not the procedure itself. Learn more about what to expect.
Does teeth whitening hurt?
Some patients notice mild, temporary sensitivity during or after whitening, especially with in-office treatments, but it typically fades within a day or two. See what to expect from the process.
Why does my filling still hurt months later?
It’s common for a filling to feel sensitive or achy weeks or months after treatment, often due to lingering nerve irritation, a bite that’s slightly off, or a new cavity forming nearby. Find out when it’s normal and when to call us.
Dental Emergencies
I have an emergency, can you help me?
We know emergencies come up. We pride ourselves on getting patients an emergency exam within 24-48 hours and treatment if our schedule allows, and we can use telemedicine to quickly address your concerns.
Why do my bottom teeth hurt all of a sudden?
Sudden tooth pain often signals a cavity, cracked tooth, or gum irritation that needs attention soon. See the common causes and what to do next.
My crown fell out but it doesn't hurt — what should I do?
A crown that pops off without pain is usually fine to leave until your next visit, but you should protect the tooth and see us soon. Find out what to do right now and when to come in.
Cosmetic & Restorative Choices
Do you offer "white" fillings?
We only use the best, up-to-date materials and no longer offer outdated silver or amalgam fillings.
Veneers or bonding — which is better?
Veneers offer a longer-lasting, more dramatic transformation, while bonding is faster and more affordable for small fixes. See a full comparison to find the best fit for your smile.
Dental implants or dentures — which is right for me?
Both can restore a full, functional smile, but the right choice depends on your bone health, budget, and how permanent you want the solution to be. See how implants and dentures compare before you decide.
Clear aligners or braces — which is right for me?
Aligners are discreet and removable, while braces handle more complex bite issues with fixed, round-the-clock control. See which option fits your smile and lifestyle best.
Post Operative Instruction Library
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.
After your specific procedure, we know it can be overwhelming, we have arranged all our post-operative instruction in one place for our patients continued care
TOOTH EXTRACTION – Post-Operative Instructions
Thank you for trusting West Hollywood Smile Dental with your care.
A little soreness and swelling are normal after an extraction. Following these instructions will help your mouth heal comfortably and reduce the risk of complications.
Questions or Concerns?
We’re here to help. If you’re unsure whether something you’re experiencing is normal, please call our office. It is always better to ask than to worry at home.
Protect the Blood Clot
A blood clot forms in the extraction site and is an important part of healing. Protect it during the first 24 hours.
DO:
- Keep gentle pressure on the gauze placed over the extraction site.
- Change the gauze as needed for up to 90 minutes.
- Use damp gauze, not dry gauze.
- Rest and keep your head elevated when lying down.
DO NOT:
Rinse or vigorously spit- Use a straw or create suction
- Smoke or vape
- Drink alcohol
- Use alcohol-containing mouthwash
- Exercise or perform strenuous activity
- Touch or disturb the extraction site with your fingers or tongue
No smoking or vaping for at least 5 days. Tobacco use can interfere with healing and increases the risk of complications such as dry socket.
Bleeding
Some mild bleeding or blood-tinged saliva is normal during the first day.
If bleeding occurs:
- Place damp gauze directly over the extraction site.
- Bite down with steady pressure for 30 minutes.
- Replace the gauze and repeat if necessary.
If you experience heavy bleeding that does not improve with firm pressure, please contact our office.
Swelling & Bruising
Swelling is normal and may increase during the first 2–3 days before gradually improving.
- Apply an ice pack for 15 minutes on, then 15 minutes off during the first 6 hours.
- Keep your head elevated while resting or sleeping.
- Mild bruising can occur and is generally normal.
Eating & Drinking
Start with liquids and soft foods and advance your diet as you feel comfortable.
First 1–2 days:
Choose soft foods such as:
- Yogurt
- Eggs
- Smoothies
- Soup
- Mashed potatoes
- Pasta
- Cottage cheese
- Pudding
- Ice cream
Avoid:
- Popcorn
- Nuts and seeds
- Hard or crunchy foods
- Spicy or acidic foods
- Foods that can become trapped in the extraction site
Gradually return to your normal diet as your comfort allows.
Pain & Medications
- Begin your pain medication before the local anesthetic completely wears off, unless instructed otherwise.
- Take medications exactly as prescribed or recommended by your dentist.
- If antibiotics are prescribed, take them exactly as directed.
- Do not take pain medication on an empty stomach if it causes you stomach upset.
We will provide individualized medication instructions based on your procedure and medical history. The ADA’s current guidance supports non-opioid medications such as NSAIDs, with or without acetaminophen, as effective options for most adults and adolescents following tooth removal when medically appropriate.
Oral Hygiene
Keeping your mouth clean is important for healing.
The day after your extraction:
- Resume your normal brushing routine.
- Brush gently around the extraction site.
- Be careful not to disturb the blood clot.
- You may use an electric toothbrush, but be gentle around the surgical area.
After the first 24 hours, gentle warm salt-water rinsing may be used as directed. If we gave you an irrigation syringe, begin using it on day 5 as instructed. 🧂 Salt-water rinse: Mix 1 teaspoon of salt into a tall glass of warm water.
What’s Normal During Healing?
You may experience:
- Soreness
- Swelling
- Mild bruising
- Jaw stiffness
- Mild difficulty opening your mouth
The first 2–3 days are usually the most uncomfortable, followed by gradual improvement.
If you had an impacted tooth removed, you may also experience temporary discomfort when swallowing, an earache, or difficulty opening your mouth.
Dry Socket
Dry socket can occur when the blood clot is lost from the extraction site. It typically causes significant, persistent or throbbing pain several days after an extraction, rather than steadily improving pain.
If you develop new or worsening severe pain after the first few days, please contact our office.
Sharp Edges
Occasionally, a small piece of bone may work its way through the gum during the first few weeks of healing.
This is usually harmless.
Do not try to remove it yourself. If it is bothersome or you are concerned, contact our office and we can evaluate it.
Dentures & Temporary Appliances
If you wear a denture, partial, flipper, or other removable appliance:
- Follow the instructions given to you by your dentist.
- Do not allow the appliance to place pressure on the surgical site.
- If it feels too tight, painful, or is rubbing the extraction area, contact our office.
When Should I Call?
Please contact West Hollywood Smile Dental if you experience:
Heavy or persistent bleeding- Severe or worsening pain
- Increasing swelling after the first few days
- Fever or chills
- Pus or unusual drainage
- Persistent numbness
- A loose or bothersome suture
- Any concern that your recovery is not progressing normally
Medical Emergency
If you experience difficulty breathing, difficulty swallowing, uncontrolled bleeding, or another life-threatening emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.
🦷 DENTAL IMPLANT
Post-Operative Instructions
Congratulations on taking the next step toward restoring your smile.
Your implant needs time to heal and integrate with the surrounding bone. Protecting the surgical site during the early healing period is important for long-term success.
🚨 Questions or Concerns?
We’re here to help. If something doesn’t feel right or you’re unsure whether a symptom is normal, please call West Hollywood Smile Dental.
🛡️ Protect Your Implant
During the first 24–48 hours:
- Keep the surgical area undisturbed.
- Do not touch or manipulate the implant or surgical site.
- Avoid vigorous rinsing or forceful spitting.
- Avoid straws and suction.
- Avoid smoking and vaping.
- Avoid alcohol.
- Avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting.
Most importantly: do not test, wiggle, push, or bite on the implant.
The implant needs to remain stable while the bone heals around it.
🩸 Bleeding
A small amount of bleeding or blood-tinged saliva is normal after implant surgery.
If bleeding occurs:
- Place damp gauze over the area.
- Apply steady pressure for approximately 30 minutes.
- Repeat if necessary.
If bleeding remains heavy or does not improve with pressure, contact our office.
❄️ Swelling & Bruising
Swelling is expected after implant surgery and may increase during the first 2–3 days.
- Apply an ice pack for 15 minutes on, then 15 minutes off during the first 6 hours.
- Keep your head elevated while resting.
- Mild bruising may occur.
Don’t be alarmed if swelling looks worse on day 2 or 3 before it begins improving.
🍽️ Eating & Drinking
For the first several days, choose soft foods that require minimal chewing.
Good choices:
🥣 Soups
🥚 Eggs
🥑 Soft foods
🥔 Mashed potatoes
🍝 Soft pasta
🥛 Yogurt
🥤 Smoothies
🐟 Soft fish
Avoid:
- ❌ Hard or crunchy foods
- ❌ Popcorn, nuts and seeds
- ❌ Spicy or acidic foods
- ❌ Very hot foods immediately after surgery
- ❌ Chewing directly over the implant site
Do not use the implant to chew until your dentist tells you it is ready.
🚭 No Smoking or Vaping
Avoid smoking and vaping during implant healing.
Nicotine and tobacco use can interfere with healing and have been associated with poorer implant outcomes.
If you use tobacco or nicotine, please speak with us about protecting your implant during the healing process.
🪥 Oral Hygiene
Keeping your mouth clean is important—but the surgical area needs to be treated gently.
- Continue brushing your other teeth normally.
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush.
- Carefully clean around the surgical area without disturbing the healing tissue.
- Do not aggressively brush directly over the surgical site unless instructed to do so.
- If we prescribed a special mouth rinse, use it exactly as directed.
- Do not use a water flosser directly on the surgical site unless specifically instructed.
Your dentist may give you additional hygiene instructions depending on the location of your implant and whether bone grafting or other procedures were performed.
💊 Pain & Medications
- Begin your pain medication as directed, preferably before the local anesthetic completely wears off.
- Take medications exactly as prescribed or recommended.
- If antibiotics were prescribed, take them exactly as directed.
- Do not change or discontinue prescription medications without discussing it with your dentist or physician.
Medication instructions are individualized based on your procedure and medical history.
🏃 Activity
Avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting for at least 48 hours, unless your dentist gives you different instructions.
Gradually return to normal activity as you feel comfortable.
If exercise causes increased throbbing, bleeding, or swelling, stop and rest.
🦷 Your Implant Needs Time to Heal
Your implant may look simple on the outside, but underneath the gum, your body is doing important work.
The bone needs time to grow around and stabilize the implant—a process called osseointegration.
🚫 Do not:
- Wiggle the implant
- Push on it with your tongue
- Test it with your fingers
- Chew on it unless specifically instructed
Your implant may require several months of healing before the final crown or restoration is placed.
🦷 Temporary Teeth, Dentures & Flippers
If you received a temporary tooth, flipper, partial denture, or other removable appliance:
- Follow the specific instructions provided by our office.
- Do not allow the appliance to put excessive pressure on the implant or surgical site.
- If the appliance feels like it is hitting, pressing against, or putting pressure on the implant, stop wearing it and contact our office.
😊 What’s Normal?
During the first few days, it is normal to experience:
- Mild to moderate soreness
- Swelling
- Bruising
- Minor bleeding or blood-tinged saliva
- Temporary tenderness around the surgical site
These symptoms should generally stabilize and then gradually improve.
⚠️ When Should I Call?
Please contact West Hollywood Smile Dental if you experience:
- 🔴 An implant that feels loose or wobbly
- 🔴 Heavy or persistent bleeding
- 🔴 Severe or worsening pain
- 🔴 Swelling that continues to increase after the first few days
- 🔴 Fever or chills
- 🔴 Pus or unusual drainage
- 🔴 Significant facial swelling
- 🔴 Persistent or worsening numbness
- 🔴 A temporary appliance that is pressing on the implant
- 🔴 Any concern that your implant is not healing normally
🚨 Medical Emergency
If you experience difficulty breathing, difficulty swallowing, uncontrolled bleeding, or another life-threatening emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.
🦷 ROOT CANAL TREATMENT
Post-Operative Instructions
A root canal removes infection and inflammation from inside the tooth and allows the tooth to be preserved. It is normal for the tooth and surrounding tissues to feel tender for a few days after treatment.
🚨 Questions or Concerns?
We’re here to help. If something doesn’t feel right or you’re unsure whether your symptoms are normal, please call West Hollywood Smile Dental.
😌 What to Expect
For the first few days, you may experience:
- Mild to moderate tenderness around the tooth
- Sensitivity when biting or chewing
- Mild soreness in the jaw from keeping your mouth open
- Temporary sensitivity in the surrounding gum tissue
This should gradually improve.
If the tooth was significantly infected before treatment, some soreness may persist for several days.
🍽️ Eating & Chewing
Until your permanent restoration is placed:
⚠️ Avoid chewing hard or sticky foods on the treated tooth.
A root-canal-treated tooth can be more susceptible to fracture, particularly if it has not yet received its final crown or restoration.
Choose softer foods if the tooth is tender.
If you received a temporary filling or temporary crown:
- Avoid sticky foods that could pull it out.
- Avoid chewing hard foods directly on the tooth.
- Contact us if your temporary restoration becomes loose or falls out.
💊 Pain & Medications
- Take pain medication as recommended by your dentist.
- If medication was prescribed, follow the instructions provided.
- Do not take medication on an empty stomach if it causes stomach upset.
- If antibiotics were prescribed, take them exactly as directed.
Important: Antibiotics are not routinely necessary for every root canal. If we prescribed one, it is because we determined it was appropriate for your particular situation.
🪥 Brushing & Flossing
You can generally continue your normal oral hygiene routine.
- Brush normally, but be gentle if the area is tender.
- Floss carefully around the treated tooth.
- If you have a temporary crown or filling, avoid pulling floss upward through the contact. Instead, gently slide the floss out from the side if instructed by our team.
Keeping the area clean helps support healthy healing.
🦷 Your Final Restoration Is Important
A root canal is only part of saving the tooth.
Depending on the tooth and your individual circumstances, your dentist may recommend a crown or other permanent restoration to protect it.
⭐ Don’t delay your final restoration.
Until the tooth is permanently restored, avoid putting excessive force on it.
If you have already been scheduled for your crown or final restoration, please keep that appointment.
⚠️ When Should I Call?
Contact West Hollywood Smile Dental if you experience:
- 🔴 Severe or increasing pain
- 🔴 Significant swelling
- 🔴 Facial swelling
- 🔴 Fever or chills
- 🔴 A bite that feels significantly higher than the surrounding teeth
- 🔴 Your temporary filling or crown comes out
- 🔴 The tooth breaks or cracks
- 🔴 Symptoms that were improving but suddenly become significantly worse
🚨 Medical Emergency
If you experience difficulty breathing, difficulty swallowing, rapidly increasing facial/neck swelling, or another life-threatening emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.
✨ IN-OFFICE TEETH WHITENING
Opalescence™ Whitening Aftercare
Congratulations on your brighter smile! ✨
It is normal for your teeth to experience some temporary sensitivity following professional whitening. Following these instructions will help maintain your results and keep your teeth comfortable.
😁 Immediately After Whitening
For the first 24–48 hours, your teeth may be more susceptible to staining.
Try to avoid foods and drinks that can stain your teeth, including:
☕ Coffee
🍷 Red wine
🫖 Dark tea
🥤 Dark-colored sodas
🍅 Tomato-based sauces
🫐 Berries
🍛 Dark or heavily colored foods
🚬 Tobacco products
When possible, choose lighter-colored foods and beverages during this period.
If it can stain a white shirt, it can potentially stain your teeth. 😉
💧 Drink Plenty of Water
Water is your best friend after whitening.
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
- Rinse with water after consuming potentially staining foods or beverages.
- Using a straw for beverages that may stain can help reduce contact with the front teeth.
🦷 Tooth Sensitivity
Temporary sensitivity is one of the most common side effects of professional whitening.
You may notice brief sensitivity to:
❄️ Cold drinks
🔥 Hot foods
🍬 Sweet foods
💨 Cold air
This usually resolves on its own.
If you experience sensitivity:
- Avoid extremely hot or cold foods and drinks temporarily.
- Use a sensitivity toothpaste if recommended by our team.
- Follow any desensitizing instructions provided after your appointment.
- Contact us if sensitivity is severe, persistent, or concerning.
🪥 Keep Brushing & Flossing
Continue your normal oral hygiene routine:
- Brush twice daily.
- Floss daily.
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush if your teeth or gums feel sensitive.
- Do not stop brushing because of temporary sensitivity.
☕ When Can I Have Coffee or Wine?
Ideally, wait 24–48 hours after whitening before returning to heavily staining foods and beverages.
If you choose to have them sooner:
☕ Coffee: Drink it relatively quickly rather than sipping for hours, and rinse with water afterward.
🍷 Wine: Red wine is more likely to stain than white wine.
🚬 Tobacco: Avoid tobacco products as much as possible, especially immediately after whitening.
✨ How Long Will My Results Last?
Whitening results vary from person to person.
Your results depend on factors such as:
- Diet
- Tobacco use
- Oral hygiene
- Natural tooth color
- Frequency of staining foods and beverages
- Individual tooth structure
Professional whitening can significantly brighten natural teeth, but fillings, crowns, veneers, and other dental restorations do not whiten like natural teeth.
🦷 Maintaining Your New Smile
For the longest-lasting results:
✨ Brush and floss consistently
✨ Maintain regular dental cleanings
✨ Drink plenty of water
✨ Limit staining foods and beverages
✨ Avoid tobacco
✨ Follow any touch-up recommendations from our team
⚠️ When Should I Contact the Office?
Please contact West Hollywood Smile Dental if you experience:
- 🔴 Severe tooth sensitivity
- 🔴 Sensitivity that does not gradually improve
- 🔴 Significant gum irritation or burning
- 🔴 White patches or unusual irritation of the gums that persist
- 🔴 Any reaction that concerns you