Frequently Asked Questions
Do you accept insurance?
Arizona Sunset Dental accepts most dental insurance plans. We will be more than happy to submit all insurance forms for you and help you recover the most from your benefits. We will do everything we can to help you afford the treatment you need and want. For patients who require major work, a complete payment plan is designed with an appropriate payment schedule. Forms of payment accepted by the office are check, cash, or any major credit card.
Do you accept new patients?
We are always accepting new patients. Please call our office at (520)797-4551 to schedule your first appointment. We are looking forward to welcoming you to our dental family.
Do you offer emergency appointments?
We understand that dental emergencies are urgent and can be very stressful, so we will try our hardest to fit you in as soon as possible.
I need to cancel an appointment. What should I do?
Please call us at the office as soon as possible to cancel and reschedule your appointment.
We ask that you please let us know no later than 24 hours prior to your appointment. Your appointment
is reserved for you and no one else– we respect your time, and request the same in return.
In the event of a cancellation within less than 24 hours of your appointment, you will be responsible for
a $50 missed appointment fee.
I missed my appointment. What now?
In the event of a missed appointment you will be responsible for a $50 missed appointment fee.
Please call us as soon as possible after your missed appointment to reschedule.
How often should I visit Arizona Sunset Dental
for a cleaning?
It is recommended that you visit Arizona Sunset Dental every six months for a routine dental check-up and cleaning. However, if you have a history of dental problems, we may recommend more frequent visits.
I have not gone to the dentist in years,
why should I start now?
We are a judgement free zone. We pride ourselves on making our practice a compassionate environment in which our patients feel safe and welcome. We know there are many reasons why people avoid dental care, but oral health is an important part of overall health and wellness.
Poor oral health can lead to a number of serious health problems. Poor oral health is also a big insecurity for many people. One in four adults avoid smiling due to the condition of their teeth. At Arizona Sunset Dental our goal is to treat your condition as quickly and efficiently as possible to bring back your healthy smile.
Why are my teeth sensitive?
Sensitive teeth often come from the fact that your gums have slightly receded. This recession of the gum line allows the underlying dentin to show through which allows water and food easier access to the sensitive nerve. To manage this, there are a number of toothpastes, gels and even some dental procedures that can be applied. Speak to us in more detail if you have very sensitive teeth.
Why do my gums bleed when I brush?
Gingivitis is a condition caused when bacteria surrounds the teeth and enters the gums. The gums can become irritated, inflamed, and often bleed. In order to prevent the condition from worsening, regular hygiene visits are highly recommended. During your visit, our hygiene team will teach you the proper flossing techniques and oral hygiene protocol for home care. These techniques and care instructions will prevent the periodontal disease from worsening and speed up recovery.
What should I do to prevent gum disease
and tooth decay?
Great teeth and gum care start at home. Brushing and flossing on a daily basis is the best way to take care of your teeth and gums on a continual basis. By keeping to a daily routine you will greatly minimize the risk of gingivitis or tooth decay as you age.
What is periodontal disease?
Periodontal Disease is a quiet disease that begins with little or no symptoms. It is caused by bacteria that surrounds the teeth and enters the gums. The immediate condition is known as ‘gingivitis’. The gums become irritated, inflamed and often bleed. If not properly treated, the condition worsens. Noticeable symptoms now appear. They include:
-Bad Breath
-Gum Recession
-Gum Sensitivity to Acidic Foods
-Abscesses
-Tooth Pain
-Tooth Loss
How do you treat periodontal disease?
Periodontal Disease is a chronic condition that needs immediate attention. Through a series of Periodontal Cleanings, Root Planing & Scaling, Laser Therapy and Local Antibiotics, this condition can be controlled. Periodontal Surgery is only necessary for severe cases.
What is the difference between a white filling
and a silver filling?
Silver Fillings known as Amalgam have been around for decades. Made from a metal alloy, it was the best restoration for fillings. The metal expands and contracts with the heat and cold placed in the mouth. This allowed for little bacteria to enter a tooth once filled; keeping the tooth healthy and strong.
White Fillings, also known as composites are often made of plastic or glass polymers. These cosmetic fillings allow us to fill a cavity with a substance that will look and feel just like your existing tooth structure. This restoration is created with a resin material and fits tightly into a tooth to prevent decay. Rather than a gray or silver material in your mouth, the composite color will match the tooth color.
How can I improve my smile?
There are several ways in today’s Dental World to enhance your smile. Certain procedures include:
-Tooth Whitening
-Bonding
-Porcelain Veneers
-Porcelain Crowns
We have the capability to improve your smile using all or some of these procedures. For an exact consultation, please contact our office so that we may provide you with a customized treatment plan.
What is tooth whitening?
Tooth Whitening is a cost effective and safe procedure to create a beautiful, healthy smile. Over the years, fluoride is has been added to the whitening product. This reduces the risk of tooth and gum sensitivity.
Tooth Whitening must be monitored by your dentist and only done after a comprehensive exam and hygiene cleaning.
The whitening process can last for a number of years if maintained properly. Beverages such as coffee, tea, cola and wine will reduce the lasting effect. Remember, if it could stain a white shirt, it will stain your smile!
What is bonding?
Bonding is a cost effective procedure used to fill gaps in front teeth and to change a tooth’s color. The immediate results are amazing. Within a few hours, you will have a great smile! Bonding like Tooth Whitening may change color over time due to coffee, tea, cola and wine.
What are porcelain veneers?
Porcelain Veneers are thin pieces of porcelain that go directly on your natural teeth. This entire procedure can take as few as two visits. Veneers change the size, shape and color of a patient’s teeth. This procedure is used to repair fractured teeth, teeth darkened by age or medication, or a crooked smile. Many times, patients ask for Porcelain Veneers to simply feel and look younger with a straighter, whiter smile!
What are crowns?
Crowns are a permanent cosmetic procedure that covers the entire tooth. It will change the size, shape and color of the teeth in as few as 2 visits.
What is a dental implant?
A Dental Implant is a “man-made” replacement for a missing tooth or tooth root. Made from titanium, this screw-like object is inserted under the gum and directly into the upper or lower jaw bone. There is usually minimal discomfort involved with this procedure. After a period of a few months, the Dental Implant and the bone fuse together. This creates an anchor for the new tooth to be placed onto the dental implant.
What are the benefits of dental Implants?
-Dental Implants look and function like your natural tooth.
-Dental Implants are a permanent solution for missing teeth.
-Dental Implants are maintained by routine hygiene visits to your dental office.
-Dental Implants decrease the possibility of bone loss, periodontal disease, tooth movement, and tooth loss.
-Dental Implants replace the need for a Removable Full or Partial Denture.
-Dental Implants focus only on the tooth or teeth that are missing. A traditional bridge would involve the two or more adjacent teeth being compromised to create a false tooth in between.
Who is a candidate for dental implants?
With major advancements in dentistry and dental implants, most people are candidates for dental implants. There may be exceptions due to chronic illness, heart disease, and severe osteoporosis.