Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I visit Smiley Dental?
To keep your teeth and gums healthy, it’s important to schedule regular checkups and dental cleanings. The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that adult patients visit the dentist at least once every six months. Regular cleanings remove stains and plaque buildup, helping prevent tooth decay and gum disease.
What is TMJ Dysfunction?
The temporomandibular joints (TMJ) connect your jaw to your skull. When these joints are strained, overused, or damaged, you may experience pain when moving your jaw or limited jaw mobility. This condition is known as TMJ dysfunction, or TMD.
Do you take my Insurance?
Yes. We’re happy to process and file claims for most major dental insurance providers, and we’re in-network with a variety of PPO plans as well as MassHealth. If you don’t see your plan listed, give us a call and we’ll check your benefits and confirm your coverage before your visit.
What are Cavity Fighting Sealants?
Dental sealants are a thin, protective coating applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth, where cavities most often start. They act as a barrier that keeps food and bacteria out of the deep grooves of the teeth. Sealants are especially helpful for children, since tooth decay can begin as soon as teeth come in and tends to progress faster in kids than in adults. We recommend sealants as part of a regular preventive routine, along with periodic X-rays as advised by your dentist.
What Are The Benefits Of Routine Teeth Cleaning?
- Reduces risks of tooth decay and cavities
- Reduces the risk of gum disease
- Removes stains
- Freshens your breath
- Improves your overall health
Do you accept new patients?
Yes, we’re currently welcoming new patients at all of our locations. You can request an appointment online or call your nearest office directly to get on the schedule.
What should I bring to my first appointment?
Please bring a photo ID, your insurance card (if you have dental insurance), and a list of any medications you’re currently taking. If you have recent X-rays or dental records from a previous dentist, bringing those along can help us get you started faster. You can request your appointment here.
What if I have dental anxiety?
You’re not alone, and we take dental anxiety seriously. Our team takes time to explain each step of your treatment, answer your questions, and go at a pace that feels comfortable for you. Let us know about any concerns when you book, so we can plan your visit accordingly.
What languages does your staff speak?
Our team includes staff who are fluent in English, Spanish, Portuguese, and Haitian Creole, so many of our patients are able to receive care and ask questions in their preferred language.
What if I don't have dental insurance?
No problem. We welcome patients with or without insurance. We offer flexible financing options and a membership plan, so you can get the care you need and pay over time.
Do you accept MassHealth?
Yes, we accept MassHealth at our locations. Coverage details can vary depending on your specific plan, so we recommend calling ahead to confirm your benefits.
Do you offer payment plans or financing?
Yes. We offer flexible payment options through partners like Cherry, CareCredit, Sunbit, and LendingTree, so you can move forward with treatment without paying the full cost upfront.
What counts as a dental emergency?
Severe tooth pain, a knocked-out or badly broken tooth, facial swelling, uncontrolled bleeding, or signs of infection are all signs of a dental emergency that call for prompt attention rather than waiting for a regular appointment. If you’re experiencing any of these, call us right away.
Do you offer same-day emergency appointments?
Yes. We reserve same-day emergency appointments so patients dealing with pain, trauma, or infection can be seen quickly rather than waiting days for relief. Call our emergency line as soon as symptoms start.
What should I do if I knock out a tooth?
Pick the tooth up by the crown, not the root, and rinse it gently only if it’s dirty. If possible, try placing it back in the socket right away. If that’s not possible, keep it moist in milk or tucked inside your cheek, and call us immediately, since a knocked-out tooth has the best chance of being saved if treated within 30 to 60 minutes.
What is Invisalign, and how does it work?
Invisalign uses a series of clear, custom-fitted, removable aligners to gradually shift your teeth into place, offering a more discreet alternative to traditional metal braces. Treatment length varies by case, and one of our Invisalign-certified providers can walk you through what to expect at a consultation.
How long do dental implants last?
With proper care, dental implants are designed to be a long-term, durable solution for replacing missing teeth. Good oral hygiene and regular checkups play a big role in how long an implant lasts.
Is a root canal painful?
Root canals have a reputation for being painful, but the procedure itself is done under local anesthesia to keep you comfortable. Most patients feel some mild tenderness for a short time afterward, similar to having a filling placed. The goal of a root canal is actually to relieve the pain caused by an infected or damaged tooth.
At what age should my child have their first dental visit?
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends a child’s first dental visit happen by their first birthday, or within six months of their first tooth coming in. Early visits help catch issues early and get kids comfortable with the dentist.
Do you treat dental emergencies for children too?
Yes. We see kids for dental emergencies and do our best to make the visit as easy and stress-free as possible for both the child and the parent.
Which areas does Smiley Dental serve?
We have a location in Boston (Roslindale) and proudly serve surrounding communities including Mattapan, Hyde Park, Dorchester, Jamaica Plain, Milton, West Roxbury, Readville, and Randolph.
What are your office hours?
Our office is open Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and Saturday from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM. We’re closed on Sundays. For dental emergencies outside these hours, contact us.
Does teeth whitening actually work, and is it safe?
Professional teeth whitening, done under a dentist’s supervision, is both effective and safe for most patients. Results and safety vary a lot with at-home or over-the-counter kits, which is why it’s worth understanding the difference before you start.
Do I need fluoride treatments as an adult, or is that just for kids?
Fluoride treatments aren’t just for children. They help strengthen enamel and protect against decay at any age, and can be especially useful for adults dealing with sensitive teeth, dry mouth, or a history of cavities.
What are the warning signs of gum disease?
Bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, redness or swelling, and gums pulling away from your teeth are all early warning signs of gum disease. Catching it early makes it much easier to treat with periodontal therapy.
Is flossing really necessary if I already brush regularly?
Yes, brushing alone can’t reach the tight spaces between your teeth and below the gumline, where plaque and food particles build up. Flossing daily is what catches what brushing misses.
Do I need a mouthguard for sports or teeth grinding?
If you play contact sports or grind your teeth at night, a custom-fitted mouthguard is one of the simplest ways to protect your smile from chips, cracks, and long-term wear.
Does diabetes affect my oral health?
Yes, diabetes can make you more prone to gum disease, slower healing, and dry mouth, and gum disease can in turn make blood sugar harder to control. Managing both together is important.
Why does my breath still smell bad even after brushing?
Persistent bad breath after brushing can point to bacteria trapped on your tongue, gum disease, dry mouth, or an underlying issue that brushing alone won’t fix. It’s worth having it checked rather than just masking it.
What's the difference between a simple and a surgical tooth extraction?
A simple extraction is used for a tooth that’s visible and accessible above the gumline, while a surgical extraction is needed for teeth that are broken, impacted, or haven’t fully erupted, such as wisdom teeth.
