Question 1

What types of payment do you accept?

Accepted Answer

For your convenience, we accept cash, check, American Express, Visa, MasterCard, and Discover.

Question 2

Which insurance plans do you take?

Accepted Answer

We're OUT-OF-NETWORK with ALL insurance companies at Prestige Dental, but WE CAN STILL SEND CLAIMS TO MOST PPO DENTAL INSURANCE COMPANIES AND USE YOUR DENTAL BENEFITS. We're not contracted with any dental HMO plans, Medi-Cal, or Medicare, so we cannot use them for any services.

Question 3

What if I don't have insurance?

Accepted Answer

Following a thorough evaluation and discussion, Dr. Bouzoghlanian and staff customize the treatment for each patient individually to meet their goals and fall within their budget. We have a variety of payment plans and will work with you! Please call us for details at (626) 577-2017 and visit our specials page!

Question 4

Do you have emergency services?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! Please call us if you are experiencing a toothache or dental emergency! We can usually accommodate you on the same day (during regular hours), or if it’s after hours, Dr. Bouzoghlanian and staff will do his best to accommodate you as promptly as possible.

Question 5

Which information is necessary for an appointment?

Accepted Answer

If you have dental insurance, please have your insurance card handy when you call for your appointment. We will also work hard to determine your insurance benefits prior to your arrival so that we may begin treatment without delay. Please also bring a list of all medicines you are taking.

Question 6

Do you have senior discount?

Accepted Answer

We value the senior citizens in our community! If you are age 65 and older, and don’t have dental insurance, we can usually extend a 5% discount (If you have dental insurance, we must comply with the terms of the insurance contract). Please call us at (626) 577-2017 for details!

Question 7

What method do you use for nervous patients?

Accepted Answer

At Prestige Dental, we have a variety of methods to care for anxious patients! Come let us pamper you with a relaxing office décor, aromatherapy, flat-screen televisions, and a soothing water fountain. Our gentle and caring treatment methods, and our friendly staff will usually melt anxiety away! Occasionally, Dr. Bouzoghlanian and staff may also use nitrous oxide sedation (laughing gas), oral sedation, or other techniques to relax nervous patients. Please refer to the Technology and Comfort section for more information.

Question 8

How often should I visit a dentist?

Accepted Answer

It’s a good idea to see your dentist once every 6 months for an evaluation. Generally, problems can be treated much faster, easier, and cost less if they are found early!

Question 9

How often should I brush and floss?

Accepted Answer

You should floss your teeth at least once daily to remove the bacterial film that collects between the teeth. This is a major cause of tooth decay, bad breath, and gum disease! Brush your teeth twice daily (morning and at bedtime).

Question 10

How often should I have a dental cleaning?

Accepted Answer

Generally, it’s a good idea to have a cleaning once every six months along with your periodic dental checkup. If you have a history of gum disease, Dr. Bouzoghlanian and staff may recommend more frequent visits such as once every three or four months.

Question 11

What causes decay?

Accepted Answer

Tooth decay is caused by bacteria that are found inside the mouth. These bacteria form a sticky, white film called plaque on the tooth surfaces. When you eat sugar, the bacteria absorb the sugar and use it for energy, releasing acid in the process. Over time, this acid causes damage to the tooth surface and causes the tooth surface to dissolve and breakdown, which is called tooth decay. This is why it is very important to limit the sugar in your diet (sweets, soft drinks, etc.), brush and floss daily, and visit your dentist regularly for examination.

Question 12

Are silver fillings safe?

Accepted Answer

At Prestige Dental, your safety is our top priority! Dental amalgam (silver filling) has been used by dentists for more than 100 years because it is a durable restoration and is less expensive than other cavity-filling materials such as tooth-colored composites or gold fillings. You may wonder about the mercury content in silver fillings. It’s important to know that when combined with the other metals like in a dental amalgam, the mercury forms a safe, stable material. This form of mercury is not the same as mercury found in fish or water, or in a thermometer. Be assured that credible scientific studies affirm the safety of dental amalgam. Study after study shows amalgam is safe and effective for filling cavities. The American Dental Association, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, U. S. Food and Drug Administration and World Health Organization all agree that based on extensive scientific evidence, dental amalgam is a safe and effective cavity-filling material. The Alzheimer’s Association, American Academy of Pediatrics, Autism Society of America and National Multiple Sclerosis Society also say that amalgam poses no health risk.

Question 13

Who is a candidate for sedation dentistry?

Accepted Answer

Candidates for sedation dentistry include children with urgent or extensive dental needs, adults with severe dental anxiety, and individuals with mental disabilities or behavioral handicaps. There are many different methods of sedation, including nitrous oxide (laughing gas), oral sedation, and intravenous (IV) sedation. The appropriateness of these different methods for a particular patient will depend on the patient’s age, health, and type of dental procedure being performed.

Question 14

Should I replace my silver fillings for white ones?

Accepted Answer

If you are considering replacing your silver fillings to improve the appearance of your smile, Dr. Bouzoghlanian and staff can discuss several options which may be suitable for you, including tooth colored (white composite) fillings, porcelain inlays/onlays, and porcelain crowns. If you would like your silver fillings replaced because you are concerned about the potential health risks, please refer to the FAQ “Are silver fillings safe.” Dr. Bouzoghlanian and staff follow the recommendations of the American Dental Association and the latest evidence based literature in regards to silver fillings. Like any restoration material, silver fillings have their advantages and disadvantages and do have their important place in dentistry.

Question 15

Can I get rid of coffee/wine stains and does it permanently stain my teeth?

Accepted Answer

Most coffee and wine stains are effectively removed by a thorough cleaning followed by teeth whitening products if necessary.

Question 16

How do I get rid of temperature sensitivity?

Accepted Answer

Sensitivity to cold or hot is a frequent concern among patients. Over-the-counter toothpastes that are designated for sensitive teeth are usually effective for treating mild to moderate tooth sensitivity. For moderate to severe sensitivity, or persistent discomfort to cold/hot, it’s a good idea to have a consultation with your dentist. Often times, this can be a sign of a bigger problem such as tooth decay, gum recession, or grinding of the teeth. At Prestige Dental, after an evaluation to determine the cause of the sensitivity, we can recommend an appropriate solution! This can include prescription desensitizing toothpastes, rinses, or gels, applying special varnishes to the teeth to cover and protect the sensitive areas, tooth colored fillings, gum grafts, or night-guards, depending on the cause of the problem.

Question 17

Is fluoride toothpaste dangerous for my child?

Accepted Answer

Fluoride is a naturally occurring element that is found throughout the body. Fluoride is used in toothpaste because it hardens the surface of teeth, making them more resistant to acid erosion and tooth decay. Care must be taken with children, however, because swallowing too much fluoride can cause the unerupted, developing teeth to become stained and weak (a condition called fluorosis). Please contact us at Prestige Dental for specific recommendations for your child.

Question 18

Is whitening my teeth safe?

Accepted Answer

Teeth whitening is generally very safe and does not weaken or affect the structure of the tooth. When properly done, whitening agents simply remove the color pigments inside the tooth, both the natural color that was present when the tooth erupted, and also staining from foods, tobacco, coffee, wine, and other products. If you have sensitive teeth or receeded gums (exposed root surfaces), you may experience some sensitivity during the teeth whitening process. However, this can usually be minimized and treated by adjusting the bleaching time, strength of the whitening agent, using a desensitizing toothpaste, and other factors. At Prestige Dental, we will recommend the bleaching product that will work safely and effectively for you!

Question 19

Can I whiten my teeth myself? Are there any risks? Does over the counter bleaching work?

Accepted Answer

Although professional whitening generally is faster and produces better results, some over the counter products are effective for whitening teeth. The success depends on the type of staining/discoloration that is present in the teeth, the type of product, and the amount of time you whiten. Risks include tooth sensitivity, whitening or irritation of the gums. Please call us at Prestige Dental if you are considering whitening and we will be happy to discuss your options!

Question 20

Is there a family discount?

Accepted Answer

We welcome new patients and their families/friends! Please call us about our Spread the Smiles℠ program to see how you may benefit from referring your loved ones.

Question 21

How much will a visit cost?

Accepted Answer

At Prestige Dental, we have a variety of Specials throughout the year for new patient examinations! Please ask about our Spread the Smiles℠ program to see how you may benefit from referring your friends or loved ones. And, if you have specific questions or would like a second opinion, consultations are free! If you have dental insurance, we will work hard to maximize your coverage, and the cost will vary depending on your insurance plan. Please call us for details, and we will be happy to inform you of your benefits!

Question 22

Are you taking new patients?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We welcome new patients and their families/friends! Please call us about our Spread the Smiles℠ program to see how you may benefit from referring your loved ones.

Question 23

What is involved in an implant?

Accepted Answer

A dental implant is a fixture that is used to replace the roots of teeth. Dental implants have revolutionized the way we replace missing teeth! They can be used to replace a single tooth or multiple missing teeth. In this scenario, a tooth colored crown (cap) is made and attached to the implant, which will look and feel like a natural tooth. Dental implants can also be used to stabilize loose or poor fitting dentures! Specialized attachments are made inside a new or existing denture to retain the denture to the implant. Say goodbye to loose dentures, denture sores, or messy denture adhesives! If you are missing teeth or experiencing problems with your dentures, please contact us for an evaluation. Dr. Bouzoghlanian and staff have extensive experience with dental implants, and will be happy to thoroughly discuss your options!

Question 24

I brush my teeth like crazy, why do I still have bad breath?

Accepted Answer

Bad breath (halitosis) can be caused from a number of things! Even if you are brushing daily, brushing alone is not enough. Make sure you are flossing regularly to clean between the teeth. Plaque and tartar buildup between the teeth is a very common cause of bad breath, tooth decay, and gum disease! Also, use a tongue scraper or toothbrush to clean the top surface of your tongue and remove the slimy, white bacterial film. If your bad breath persists, please call us for an evaluation! You may be experiencing other problems such as tooth decay, infection, gum disease, or stomach/digestive problems that may be responsible for your symptoms.

Question 25

How old should my child be before they start going to the dentist?

Accepted Answer

Generally, it’s a good idea to have your child see a dentist when they are around 2-3 years old (when most of their baby teeth have erupted). If you see anything suspicious in your child’s mouth, such as discoloration, chipping, or staining of the teeth, or redness of the gums, please call us promptly for an evaluation.

Question 26

Does my child have to go to a child specialist or can they go to a general dentist?

Accepted Answer

At Prestige Dental, we provide treatment to children of all ages! Occasionally, Dr. Bouzoghlanian and staff may refer your child to a pediatric dentist (child specialist) based on your child’s age, compliance, and type of treatment that is necessary.

Question 27

How soon can I get this taken care of? Do you have a long wait before you are seeing new patients?

Accepted Answer

We value your time at Prestige Dental! We arrange our schedule to absolutely minimize your waiting time while in the office. New patients can usually have an appointment within the same week, and we are open on Saturdays for your convenience! If you are in pain or experiencing a dental emergency, we will usually be able to accommodate you on the same day. We will also work hard to determine your insurance benefits prior to your arrival so that we may begin treatment without delay.

Question 28

What are your office hours?

Accepted Answer

Our regular office hours are monday – friday: 9:00 am – 6:00 pm by appointment, with a lunch hour from 1-2pm. If you are in pain or experiencing a dental emergency, Dr. Bouzoghlanian and staff will do his best to accommodate you outside of regular hours.

Question 29

Where are you located?

Accepted Answer

We are centrally located in the heart of beautiful downtown Pasadena! We have close access to the Lake Ave. financial district, Pasadena City College, and Cal-Tech University. Our office has ample, free parking in the rear of the building, and there is convenient access to the 210 and 110 freeways, as well as public transportation. Please consult our Contact Us section for more information.

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