Frequently Asked Questions

Our office features a beverage station, flat-screen TVs in patient rooms, music, and free parking to ensure a comfortable experience.

We welcome patients from age 6 and up, providing comprehensive family dental care.

Yes, we accommodate same-day emergency appointments to address urgent dental needs promptly.

We'll provide personalized recommendations for your at-home care routine, including proper brushing techniques, flossing, and any specific products that might benefit your oral health.

A typical checkup appointment lasts about 60 minutes, though your first visit may take longer to complete all necessary documentation and initial examinations.

If we detect a cavity, we'll discuss treatment options and can often provide same-day composite fillings for your convenience.

Your first visit will include a comprehensive exam and digital X-rays, and a personalized treatment consultation. We'll take time to understand your dental history and address any concerns.

Yes, our digital X-rays use significantly less radiation than traditional X-rays while providing superior image quality for better diagnosis.

Yes, we accept all PPO insurance plans and Some Medicare plans. We offer various payment options including cash, credit cards, Care Credit and Cherry Financing.

Most patients feel mild pressure when starting a new set of aligners. This means they’re working to gently shift your teeth.

You’ll receive a custom retainer to help maintain your new smile. Wearing it as recommended keeps your results long-lasting.

We typically schedule visits every 6–8 weeks to monitor your progress and provide your next set of aligners.

Clear aligners can correct many mild to moderate alignment concerns. A consultation will help determine if they’re right for your smile.

Some patients notice a short adjustment period, but most get used to speaking with aligners within a few days.

Rinse them daily with lukewarm water and clean with gentle soap, a soft brush, or specialized cleaning solutions. Avoid hot water, which can damage the plastic.

No. Remove your aligners before eating or drinking anything except water. Brush your teeth before putting them back in.

Wear them for 20–22 hours daily. Remove them only to eat, drink, brush, and floss.

Costs vary depending on your treatment needs. We offer flexible financing and will review all pricing during your consultation.

Most treatment plans last between 12 and 18 months. Your personalized timeline will be discussed during your first visit.

Most patients with healthy teeth and gums are candidates for veneers. Schedule a consultation to discuss your specific situation.

Porcelain veneers cannot be whitened after placement, but they are stain-resistant and maintain their color.

Maintain your veneers with regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups, just like natural teeth.

The veneer process typically requires 2-3 appointments from consultation to final placement.

As a cosmetic procedure, veneers are typically not covered by insurance. We offer various financing options to help make treatment affordable.

Yes, you can enjoy most foods normally, though we recommend avoiding excessive force on your veneers.

Our custom-designed veneers are crafted to match your natural teeth in color, shape, and translucency.

Yes, veneers are a permanent cosmetic solution as the procedure requires removing a small amount of natural tooth enamel.

We ensure your comfort throughout the process with local anesthesia and sedation options if desired.

With proper care and maintenance, veneers typically last 10-15 years or longer.

Dental implants require the same care as natural teeth - regular brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings.

Our combination of advanced technology, sedation options, and experienced care team ensures optimal results in a comfortable environment.

There's no upper age limit for implants. Overall health and bone density are more important factors than age.

In many cases, immediate implant placement is possible. We'll evaluate your specific situation during consultation.

With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime, making them a cost-effective long-term solution.

Many insurance plans provide partial coverage for implants. Our team will help maximize your benefits.

While we offer traditional bridges and dentures, implants provide the most natural and long-lasting solution.

Costs vary based on individual needs. We'll provide a detailed treatment plan and discuss financing options during your consultation.

We offer various sedation options, including IV sedation, to ensure your comfort throughout the procedure.

The complete process typically takes 3-6 months, depending on your specific case and healing time needed.

Maintain good oral hygiene, avoid staining foods/beverages, and schedule regular dental cleanings to preserve your results.

Yes, we provide professional-grade take-home whitening kits for patients who prefer to whiten at their own pace.

Professional whitening uses stronger agents, custom-fitted trays, and expert supervision for better, faster, and safer results.

While most external stains respond well to whitening, some internal stains may require alternative treatments.

Existing dental work won't respond to whitening treatments. We can discuss options to ensure a uniform smile.

Most insurance plans consider teeth whitening cosmetic and don't cover it. We offer flexible financing options to help make treatment affordable.

Some patients may experience temporary sensitivity, which typically subsides within 24-48 hours.

Results typically last 6-12 months, depending on your habits and oral hygiene routine.

Yes, professional whitening is safe when performed under dental supervision. We carefully monitor the process to ensure your comfort and safety.

Most in-office whitening treatments can be completed in about an hour, with immediately visible results.

We recommend to fast 8 hours before procedure and we require a driver to drive you home.

We provide a full range of sedation options—including nitrous oxide, oral sedation, and IV sedation—all conveniently administered by our own dentist in our office. This unique approach helps keep your care affordable and flexible. As a fun fact, fewer than 5% of general dentists in the US offer IV sedation, making our practice stand out.

Yes, you'll need a responsible adult to drive you home and stay with you for several hours after the procedure.

Coverage varies by provider. Our team will help verify your benefits and discuss financing options available through CareCredit.

We can perform most dental procedures under IV sedation, including extractions, implants, and complex restorative work.

Need to fast 8 hours before procedure. We'll provide detailed instructions during your consultation.

We recommend taking the rest of the day off after IV sedation. Most patients can return to normal activities the following day.

No, you'll feel deeply relaxed and comfortable throughout your treatment. Most patients have little to no memory of the procedure.

Yes, IV sedation is very safe when administered by qualified professionals like our team at Aster Smiles. We continuously monitor your vital signs throughout the procedure.

The effects of IV sedation typically wear off within 24 hours, though you may feel drowsy for several hours after your procedure.

Follow-up care depends on your specific situation. We'll create a comprehensive treatment plan and schedule any necessary follow-up appointments to ensure optimal healing.

We serve Cypress and surrounding communities including Cypress Springs, Tealbrook, Canyon Village, Marvida, and Bear Creek areas.

Treatment costs vary depending on the specific emergency and required care. We'll provide transparent pricing and discuss payment options before beginning treatment.

Over-the-counter pain medication and cold compresses can help temporarily manage pain. Avoid applying aspirin directly to the affected area.

Most PPO and Medicare dental insurance plans provide coverage for emergency dental care. Our team will help you understand your benefits and coverage options.

Keep the tooth moist, preferably by placing it back in the socket or in milk, and contact us immediately. Quick action can help save your tooth.

We offer same-day appointments for dental emergencies and will do our best to see you as quickly as possible.

Yes, we welcome all emergency patients regardless of insurance status. We offer flexible financing options and accept various payment methods including CareCredit.

Any situation involving severe pain, bleeding, or trauma to your teeth or gums requires immediate attention. This includes knocked-out teeth, severe toothaches, or broken teeth.