Question 1

What makes OC Dental Centers different from other dental practices?

Accepted Answer

OC Dental Centers is a network of trusted dental practices across Orange County, combining decades of experience with cutting-edge technology. Under the leadership of Dr. Peter Zakhary, our practices offer personalized, comprehensive care in warm environments. We prioritize patient comfort, use advanced digital technology, and accept most insurance plans at all our locations.

Question 2

Do your locations accept new patients?

Accepted Answer

Yes! All OC Dental Centers locations warmly welcome new patients of all ages. Our teams are dedicated to making your first visit comfortable and informative. We offer comprehensive new patient exams that include digital X-rays, oral cancer screening, and a personalized treatment plan discussion.

Question 3

Are your offices wheelchair accessible?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. All our facilities feature wheelchair-accessible parking, entrances, and restrooms. We are committed to providing comfortable, accessible dental care for all patients at every location.

Question 4

Do you offer pediatric dental care?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we provide comprehensive family dentistry including pediatric care and pediatric orthodontics at all our locations. Our dentists specialize in creating positive dental experiences for children, helping them develop healthy oral hygiene habits from an early age.

Question 5

How can I find office hours for a specific location?

Accepted Answer

Each OC Dental Centers location has its own operating hours to best serve the local community. Visit our Locations page to find specific hours for each clinic, or contact your preferred location directly. We offer flexible scheduling to accommodate your busy lifestyle.

Question 6

How do I schedule an appointment?

Accepted Answer

Scheduling is easy! You can call any of our locations directly during office hours, or use the contact form on our website. We typically respond to online requests within 24 hours. For urgent matters, please call the location nearest to you directly.

Question 7

Do you offer same-day appointments?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we offer same-day appointments for dental emergencies whenever possible at all our locations. If you're experiencing severe pain, a broken tooth, or other urgent dental issues, call your nearest OC Dental Centers location immediately.

Question 8

What should I bring to my first appointment?

Accepted Answer

Please bring a valid photo ID, your insurance card (if applicable), a list of current medications, and any relevant medical history. If you have previous dental X-rays, we can request them from your former dentist to avoid unnecessary radiation exposure.

Question 9

How often should I visit the dentist?

Accepted Answer

We recommend visiting every six months for routine cleanings and exams. Regular checkups help us detect issues early, prevent costly procedures, and maintain your optimal oral health. Some patients with specific conditions may need more frequent visits.

Question 10

What services do you offer?

Accepted Answer

We offer comprehensive dental services at all locations including: Preventive Care & Cleanings, Cosmetic Dentistry (veneers, whitening, smile makeovers), Dental Implants, Orthodontics & Invisalign, Restorative Dentistry (crowns, bridges, fillings), Periodontal Treatment, Root Canal Therapy, Oral Surgery, and Emergency Dental Services.

Question 11

Do you offer teeth whitening?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We offer professional teeth whitening as part of our cosmetic dentistry services at all locations. Professional whitening provides safer, more effective, and longer-lasting results compared to over-the-counter products. We can help you achieve a brighter, more confident smile.

Question 12

What are dental implants and am I a candidate?

Accepted Answer

Dental implants are permanent tooth replacements that look, feel, and function like natural teeth. They consist of a titanium post surgically placed in your jawbone, topped with a custom crown. Most patients with good oral health and sufficient bone density are candidates. We offer comprehensive consultations at all our locations to determine if implants are right for you.

Question 13

Is Invisalign as effective as traditional braces?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Invisalign clear aligners are highly effective for treating most orthodontic issues including crowding, spacing, and bite problems. They offer the advantage of being virtually invisible, removable for eating and cleaning, and typically more comfortable than traditional braces. During your consultation, we'll determine if Invisalign is the best option for your specific needs.

Question 14

Are root canals painful?

Accepted Answer

Modern root canal therapy is virtually painless thanks to advanced anesthesia and techniques. The procedure actually relieves the pain caused by infected tooth pulp. Most patients report feeling comfortable during and after treatment. We prioritize your comfort and offer sedation options if needed.

Question 15

How long do dental crowns last?

Accepted Answer

With proper care, dental crowns typically last 10-15 years or longer. Factors affecting longevity include oral hygiene, diet, teeth grinding habits, and the crown material used. We use high-quality materials and precise techniques to ensure your crowns are durable and natural-looking.

Question 16

Do you accept dental insurance?

Accepted Answer

Yes, all OC Dental Centers locations accept most major dental insurance plans. Our knowledgeable staff will help you understand your benefits and maximize your coverage. We handle insurance claims and paperwork to make the process as smooth as possible for you.

Question 17

What payment methods do you accept?

Accepted Answer

We accept cash, checks, and all major credit cards at all locations. We also offer flexible financing options to help make dental care affordable. Our team can discuss payment plans during your visit.

Question 18

What if I don't have dental insurance?

Accepted Answer

Don't worry! We offer affordable options for patients without insurance, including flexible payment plans and financing at all our locations. Quality dental care should be accessible to everyone. Contact us to discuss your options—we're here to help.

Question 19

Do you offer payment plans for expensive procedures?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we understand that some dental procedures require significant investment. All our locations offer flexible financing options to help you get the care you need without financial stress. Our team will work with you to create a payment plan that fits your budget.

Question 20

What constitutes a dental emergency?

Accepted Answer

Dental emergencies include: severe toothache, knocked-out tooth, broken or cracked tooth, lost filling or crown, abscess or swelling, uncontrolled bleeding, or jaw injury. If you're experiencing any of these, call your nearest OC Dental Centers location immediately. We offer same-day emergency appointments.

Question 21

What should I do if I knock out a tooth?

Accepted Answer

Time is critical! Gently rinse the tooth with water (don't scrub), try to place it back in the socket if possible, or keep it moist in milk or saliva. Call your nearest OC Dental Centers location immediately. If treated within an hour, there's a good chance we can save the tooth.

Question 22

Do you offer emergency services after hours?

Accepted Answer

For dental emergencies during office hours, call your nearest OC Dental Centers location for immediate assistance. For after-hours emergencies, please call our emergency line. We're committed to providing prompt care when you need it most.

Question 23

How can I manage dental pain until my appointment?

Accepted Answer

For temporary relief: rinse with warm salt water, take over-the-counter pain medication as directed, apply a cold compress to reduce swelling, and avoid hot, cold, or hard foods. Never apply aspirin directly to gums. Call your nearest OC Dental Centers location to schedule an appointment as soon as possible.

Caring for Smiles, One Family at a Time.

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