Frequently Asked Questions | Phillip Thai, DDS | Dental Care for Sunnyvale, California | Sunnyvale Dentistry

How do I know when it is time to come in for a check up?
My gums bleed after I brush. Is this something to be concerned about?
I have a temporary crown in my mouth. What should I do if it comes off or breaks?
What are mini implant dentures?
What is a cosmetic dentist?
I want to know more about changing my smile. What do you suggest?
How long will my whitening treatment last?
I want straighter teeth, but I do not want to wear braces. What would you recommend?

How do I know when it is time to come in for a check up?

You should schedule an oral hygiene appointment with us every six months to maintain a clean, healthy smile. We suggest that you schedule your next visit before leaving our office. For your convenience, we’ll remind you when your check up gets close.

My gums bleed after I brush. Is this something to be concerned about?

Absolutely! Bleeding gums may be a sign of gum disease and should not be ignored. Schedule a periodontal exam with us right away.

I have a temporary crown in my mouth. What should I do if it comes off or breaks?

Try to replace the crown with denture adhesive paste immediately. If you cannot glue the temporary crown back in, contact us right away so we can take care of it. Keep in mind that we can place CEREC crowns many times in one visit, so you never have to wear a temporary again!

What are mini implant dentures?

Mini implant dentures replace missing teeth just like standard implants, but offer many important benefits. Mini implants can fit into spaces that standard implants cannot, are less invasive to install, require minimal anesthesia, and generally cost less.

What is a cosmetic dentist?

There is no officially recognized specialty for cosmetic dentistry, so no doctor has a degree in cosmetic dental procedures. However, cosmetic dentist is a term for a dentist who has taken CEUs or has experience in performing various smile restoration and enhancement procedures. Dr. Thai has training in many cosmetic dental procedures, and we have a Before & After Gallery that showcases his success. For more information about cosmetic dentistry, click here.

I want to know more about changing my smile. What do you suggest?

Our cosmetic procedures enhance smiles and build confidence. Choose from whitening treatments, veneers, crowns, bridgework, implants, or a custom-designed treatment plan that incorporates a unique combination of these procedures to produce your best smile.

How long will my whitening treatment last?

The life of whitening depends on many factors, including the cause of the stains, the patient’s diet and personal habits, and maintenance. We send patients home with professional kits to touch up their whitened smile at home. Whitening intensifies a few days after treatment.

I want straighter teeth, but I do not want to wear braces. What would you recommend?

Orthodontia is not the only road to a straight smile. Porcelain veneers, cosmetic bonding, and even recontouring procedures can change the look of your smile, making it appear straighter. For more information about our cosmetic procedures, click here.