San Francisco and Marin CA
At Glen Park Dental, we believe that informed patients make the best decisions about their oral health. Below are answers to some of the most frequently asked dental questions we hear from patients in San Francisco.
If you have additional questions or would like to schedule an appointment, call (415) 799-3900.
Do You Accept New Patients Through Referrals?
Absolutely. Many of our new patients come to us through recommendations from friends, family members, and coworkers. Referrals are one of the highest compliments we can receive, and we are always happy to welcome new patients into our dental family.
What Teeth Whitening Options Are Available?
We offer multiple professional teeth whitening treatments to match different lifestyles and goals:
In-Office Teeth Whitening
For fast, dramatic results, we provide Opalescence® X-tra Boost, a professional in-office whitening treatment that can significantly brighten your smile in about one hour. Unlike older systems that rely on lights or lasers, this whitening system is chemically activated, allowing for efficient and even results with minimal sensitivity.
Custom Take-Home Whitening
Our customized take-home whitening system uses custom-fitted trays created from impressions of your teeth. You’ll receive professional-strength Opalescence gel to use at home on your schedule, offering gradual, controlled whitening with long-lasting results.
Pre-Filled Whitening Trays
For convenience, we also offer Opalescence Treswhite®, which features pre-filled trays that adapt comfortably to your teeth. These trays are worn for about 60 minutes per day and provide better results than over-the-counter products, all at an affordable price.
Why Might I Need a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is often recommended when a tooth has been weakened by a large filling, fracture, or extensive wear. Over time, pressure from chewing can cause cracks in compromised teeth. Placing a crown helps reinforce the tooth, restore strength, and prevent further damage that could require more extensive treatment.
What Exactly Is a Dental Crown?
A crown is a protective covering placed over the visible portion of a tooth above the gumline. Crowns are custom-made in a dental laboratory and secured with dental cement. While your permanent crown is being created, you may wear a temporary crown to protect the tooth.
Why Is Flossing So Important?
Brushing alone only cleans about 60% of tooth surfaces. Flossing removes plaque and food debris from between the teeth and beneath the gumline—areas where cavities and gum disease often begin. Daily flossing is essential for preventing tooth decay and maintaining healthy gums.
Why Are Dental X-Rays Necessary?
Dental X-rays allow us to see issues that aren’t visible during a standard exam, such as cavities between teeth, infections in tooth roots, bone loss, and jaw alignment concerns. Early detection through X-rays helps prevent minor problems from becoming major dental issues.
What Role Does Fluoride Play in Oral Health?
Fluoride helps strengthen tooth enamel by replenishing lost minerals, making teeth more resistant to decay. Regular exposure to fluoride—whether through drinking water or professional applications—supports cavity prevention at any age.
What Are Scaling and Root Planing?
Scaling and root planing is a deep cleaning procedure used to treat gum disease. Scaling removes plaque and tartar from tooth surfaces, while root planing cleans bacteria from below the gumline. This treatment may require more than one visit and is an important step in restoring gum health.
What Is Bruxism and Why Would I Need a Night Guard?
Bruxism refers to involuntary teeth grinding or clenching, often during sleep. Over time, it can lead to tooth damage, jaw pain, and headaches. A custom night guard is designed to protect your teeth and reduce stress on the jaw joints while you sleep.
Are Silver (Amalgam) Fillings Safe?
Amalgam fillings contain trace amounts of mercury, which has raised concerns over the years. While research indicates that the levels used in dental fillings are considered safe, some patients choose to replace older amalgam fillings with tooth-colored materials for peace of mind or aesthetic reasons. This replacement process is straightforward and commonly performed.
Have More Dental Questions?
Our team at Glen Park Dental is happy to help you understand your dental care options and feel confident about your oral health decisions.
📍 San Francisco, CA
📞 Call (415) 799-3900 to schedule an appointment