1. How do I book an appointment?
2. What will the costs be?
3. What happens at my first appointment?
4. How long are the appointments?
5. How many times a day should I brush my teeth?
6. Which is better: a manual toothbrush or an electric one?
7. What kind of toothpaste should I use?
8. What is the best way to get my teeth whiter?
9. How would you deal with me being a very nervous patient?
 

1. How do I book an appointment?

To schedule a consultation with Dr. Reddy, you may use our online Request an Appointment page, or simply call us at 858-412-4696.

2. What will the costs be?

This will depend on the treatment required, however your initial consultation should not be expensive. The appointment allows the dentist to fully examine your teeth and mouth as well as giving you the opportunity to discuss any concerns you may have. From this examination and discussion your dentist will be able to provide you with a detailed treatment plan providing you with treatment options and associated fees.

Please contact us for a current range of fees.

3. What happens at my first appointment?

At your first appointment you will have an oral health assessment where the tissues supporting your teeth are examined, including appropriate lymph and salivary glands and tongue. You will also be given a gum assessment and have your teeth examined (with, where appropriate, the aid of an intra oral camera to enhance the understanding of your oral condition). Also where appropriate we will consider X-rays to be taken. You will receive preventive advice, and if any treatment is required, treatment options and costs will be discussed with you and a treatment plan with appropriate fees provided.

4. How long are the appointments?

Your first oral health assessment examination can be anything between 30 minutes to one hour. If you require further treatment the timings of any further appointments will be discussed with your dentist.

5. How many times a day should I brush my teeth?

The American Dental Association advocates brushing twice each day. Although there is research indicating that brushing once a day is sufficient to disrupt the formation of plaque that feeds the bacteria that cause decay, this may not be enough for some people, depending on factors such as their diets and the efficacy of their brushing technique. ADHA recommends that you discuss this with your dental hygienist who understands your individual oral health needs and will be able to make a recommendation appropriate for you.

6. Which is better: a manual toothbrush or an electric one?

Comparisons have been made between power-assisted (electric) toothbrushes and manual toothbrushes to look at the ability of each to remove plaque and prevent or reduce calculus (tartar) buildup, thus reducing gingivitis (gum disease). These research studies have shown both powered and manual toothbrushes to be equally effective when used correctly. So probably, in practical terms, which brush you use is not the critical factor, but how you use it. The ADHA Website includes instructions for proper tooth-brushing techniques with a manual brush, and product packaging shows the best way to use your powered brush.

7. What kind of toothpaste should I use?

There are a lot of products to choose from, and much of the decision depends on individual preference. A fluoride toothpaste is essential for optimal oral health. Beyond that, your dental hygienist and dentist can alert you to any other features that make one product more suitable than another for you as an individual.

8. What is the best way to get my teeth whiter?

Most people have teeth that are naturally darker than "pure" white. If you want them whiter, the best thing you can do is talk to your professional oral health care provider about your options. Different people respond differently to different procedures used to whiten teeth, and it will take an in-person consultation with a professional to determine what is best for you. Sometimes all it takes is professional prophylaxis to remove stain and then abstinence from behaviors that stain teeth, such as drinking coffee or tea, or smoking tobacco. Some people respond well to the use of whitening toothpastes while some do not. Other options available include bleaching, at home or in the office, with chemicals or with lasers, as prescribed by a dentist. Sometimes a combination of options is used. See our teeth whitening page for more information.

9. How would you deal with me being a very nervous patient?

Dr. Reddy practices gentle dentistry in which she first discusses the procedures with you, and then makes sure you are comfortable proceeding. In her years as a professional dentist, she has had countless referrals for her gentle touch and caring attitude. Please refer to the testimonials page to see what her clients have had to say.