Woman smiling and sitting in a dental exam chair, looking at someone off-camera.

Frequently Asked Questions

We know choosing a new dentist comes with questions, especially when you're looking for care that's both exceptional and comfortable. Find answers to common questions about our services, insurance, scheduling, and what makes the Harbour Dental Studio experience unique.

Dental Checkups

What if you find a problem during my checkup?

Dr. Boules will thoroughly explain any findings and work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that fits your needs and schedule.

What should I bring to my first checkup?

Please bring your ID, insurance information if applicable, and a list of any medications you're currently taking. Arriving 15 minutes early helps us complete the necessary paperwork.

What if I'm nervous about dental visits?

We offer a judgment-free environment with various comfort amenities to ensure a relaxing experience.

How often should I schedule a dental checkup?

We recommend visiting every six months for optimal oral health maintenance. Some patients may need more frequent visits based on their specific dental needs.

How long does a checkup appointment take?

Most routine checkups take about 60 minutes. New patient visits may require additional time for comprehensive documentation and treatment planning.

Do you offer same-day emergency appointments?

Yes, we reserve time in our schedule for dental emergencies and will do our best to see you the same day you call.

What makes your dental checkups different?

Our checkups combine advanced technology like intraoral cameras and VELscope screening with comfort amenities including Netflix, wireless headphones, and warm towels for a superior experience.

Will my insurance cover my checkup?

We're currently establishing relationships with major insurance providers. Our team will help you understand your coverage and maximize your benefits.

Invisalign

Can teenagers get Invisalign?

Yes! Invisalign Teen is designed specifically for younger patients, with added features to accommodate growing mouths and teeth. It’s an excellent option for teens looking to straighten their teeth discreetly and comfortably.

What happens after treatment is complete?

Once your Invisalign treatment is complete and you have your perfect smile, you’ll receive a custom retainer to help maintain your new alignment long-term. This is a crucial step to keep your smile looking great for years to come.

How often are check-in appointments?

You’ll typically visit us every 6-8 weeks to monitor your progress and receive your new set of aligners. These regular check-ins ensure your treatment stays on track, and we can make any necessary adjustments along the way.

Is Invisalign right for everyone?

Invisalign is a great option for many patients with a variety of orthodontic concerns. However, Dr. Boules will determine if it’s the best treatment for you after a thorough consultation, ensuring that you receive the most effective care for your needs.

Can I eat with Invisalign aligners?

It’s best to remove your aligners before eating or drinking anything other than water. After eating, be sure to clean your teeth before reinserting your aligners to maintain good oral hygiene and keep them free from food particles.

Will insurance cover Invisalign?

Many dental insurance plans provide coverage for orthodontic treatment, including Invisalign. Our team is happy to help you verify your benefits and explore financing options to make your treatment affordable and accessible.

How do I clean my aligners?

To keep your aligners fresh and clear, clean them daily with lukewarm water and gentle soap. You can also use specialized Invisalign cleaning solutions to maintain their quality and prevent any buildup.

How often should I wear my aligners?

For the best results, we recommend wearing your aligners 20-22 hours a day, only removing them for eating, drinking, or brushing your teeth. The more consistently you wear them, the faster you'll see the beautiful results!

Is Invisalign painful?

Most patients experience minimal discomfort during their Invisalign journey. It's normal to feel some initial pressure when wearing a new set of aligners, but this sensation typically fades within a few days. Any discomfort is usually mild and temporary.

How long does Invisalign treatment take?

The duration of Invisalign treatment depends on the specifics of your case, but it generally takes between 12 to 18 months. During your consultation, Dr. Boules will provide a personalized timeline based on your unique needs and treatment goals.

Crowns & Bridges

How do I schedule an appointment?

Scheduling an appointment is easy! You can use our convenient online booking system or simply call our office directly to speak with one of our team members. We’ll find a time that works for you.

Are crowns covered by insurance?

Many dental insurance plans provide coverage for crowns if they are deemed medically necessary. Our team will gladly help you verify your insurance benefits, ensuring you understand your coverage and potential out-of-pocket costs.

How long does the crown process take?

The traditional crown process usually involves two visits, spaced about two weeks apart. During the first appointment, we prepare your tooth and take impressions. On your second visit, we place your custom crown, giving you a fully restored smile.

What makes Harbour Dental Studio different?

At Harbour Dental Studio, we combine state-of-the-art technology, comfortable amenities, and personalized care to deliver a truly exceptional dental experience. Our goal is to make your visits as comfortable, efficient, and pleasant as possible.

Do you offer same-day emergency appointments?

Yes, we understand that dental emergencies can happen at any time. That's why we offer same-day emergency appointments to address urgent needs quickly and effectively, so you can get back to feeling your best.

Can I eat normally with a crown or bridge?

Yes! Our custom-designed crowns and bridges are made to fit comfortably, allowing you to eat and speak normally. We recommend avoiding very hard or sticky foods in the first few days to help your crown settle in.

How do I care for my crown or bridge?

Taking care of your crown or bridge is simple! Just follow a regular routine of brushing, flossing, and scheduling professional cleanings. This will help keep your restoration in top condition and maintain your oral health.

Is getting a crown painful?

We understand the importance of comfort during your procedure. Local anesthesia is used to numb the area, ensuring you feel no pain. Most patients find the process to be quick and comfortable, with minimal discomfort afterward.

How long do dental crowns last?

With proper care, dental crowns can last between 10 and 15 years or even longer. Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene are key to extending their lifespan and maintaining their effectiveness.

Veneers

Can veneers be whitened?

Veneers maintain their color over time and cannot be whitened. But don’t worry—we’ll work with you to select the perfect shade for your veneers during the planning stage, so your smile looks radiant and beautiful from the start.

How do I care for my veneers?

Caring for your veneers is simple! Just follow a regular routine of brushing and flossing, and keep up with your regular dental visits. Treat your veneers like natural teeth to ensure they last for many years.

How many appointments are needed?

The veneer process generally takes 2-3 appointments: one for your consultation and preparation, and another for the final placement of your custom veneers. We’ll guide you through each step to make sure you're comfortable and informed.

Are veneers covered by insurance?

Veneers are typically considered a cosmetic treatment, so they are not usually covered by insurance. However, we offer a variety of flexible financing options, making it easier to fit this smile-enhancing procedure into your budget.

Can I eat normally with veneers?

Yes, you can eat most foods as usual! However, to protect your veneers, we recommend avoiding excessive force or very hard foods. This will help ensure they stay in great shape for years to come.

Is the procedure painful?

We prioritize your comfort. During the procedure, we use local anesthesia to numb the area, so you won’t feel any pain. Most patients experience little to no discomfort, and any mild soreness typically resolves quickly.

Will veneers look natural?

Absolutely! Our veneers are custom-designed to match the color, shape, and translucency of your natural teeth, ensuring that they blend seamlessly with your smile for a flawless, natural appearance.

Are veneers permanent?

Yes, veneers are a permanent solution for enhancing your smile. The process involves removing a small amount of your natural tooth structure to ensure the veneers fit perfectly and stay securely in place.

How long do veneers last?

With the right care and attention, your veneers can last anywhere from 10 to 15 years, or even longer. Regular dental check-ups are key to keeping them in optimal condition and ensuring their longevity.

Teeth Whitening

When can I eat and drink normally after treatment?

For the best results, we recommend avoiding staining foods and beverages—such as coffee, tea, or red wine—for 24-48 hours after your treatment. This helps to ensure your smile stays bright and vibrant for as long as possible.

How should I maintain my results?

To keep your smile looking its best, we’ll provide you with specific care instructions. You may also want to schedule touch-up treatments as needed to maintain your bright, radiant smile for the long term.

Is whitening covered by insurance?

Most dental insurance plans consider teeth whitening a cosmetic procedure, so it is generally not covered. However, we offer flexible payment options to make whitening treatments more accessible and affordable.

Can I whiten my teeth if I have dental work?

Existing dental work, such as crowns or fillings, won’t respond to whitening treatments. However, we can discuss options for ensuring a uniform and beautiful smile, taking into account your natural teeth and dental restorations.

How white will my teeth get?

Results vary from person to person, but most patients notice their teeth brightening by several shades. During your consultation, we’ll discuss realistic expectations based on your individual needs and desired results.

Can all stains be removed?

While most external stains (from coffee, wine, etc.) respond well to whitening, some internal stains may not be fully addressed by whitening alone. In these cases, we may recommend alternative cosmetic treatments to achieve the best outcome for your smile.

Will whitening cause tooth sensitivity?

Some patients may experience temporary tooth sensitivity after whitening, but rest assured, we take every precaution to minimize this. We use techniques and desensitizing treatments that help keep your comfort in mind during and after the procedure.

How long do results last?

With proper maintenance and good oral hygiene, the results of your whitening treatment can last between 6 to 12 months. We’ll provide tips and recommendations to help you keep your smile looking bright and fresh for as long as possible.

Is professional teeth whitening safe?

Yes, professional whitening is completely safe when performed by trained dental professionals. We monitor the entire process to ensure your safety and comfort while achieving the best results possible.

How long does professional teeth whitening take?

Most in-office whitening treatments typically take between 60 to 90 minutes, allowing you to leave with a brighter, more confident smile in just one visit. It’s a quick and effective way to enhance your smile.

Emergency Dentistry

What amenities do you offer to help me feel comfortable during emergency treatment?

We understand that emergencies can be stressful, so we’ve created a comfortable and soothing environment. Our office features amenities like Netflix, wireless headphones, blankets, pillows, and warm scented towels to help you feel relaxed during your emergency treatment.

Will I need follow-up care after my emergency visit?

Depending on your specific emergency, follow-up care may be necessary to ensure proper healing and prevent future issues. We’ll discuss the next steps and schedule any follow-up appointments needed for your recovery.

What payment options are available for emergency care?

We offer various payment options to make emergency care as accessible as possible. During your visit, our team will review your financial options and work with you to find a solution that fits your needs.

How can I prevent dental emergencies?

While some emergencies are unavoidable, you can reduce your risk by having regular dental checkups, wearing protective gear during sports, avoiding extremely hard foods, and maintaining excellent oral hygiene. These steps help keep your smile healthy and safe.

Will my emergency treatment hurt?

Your comfort is our priority. We use local anesthesia and gentle techniques to ensure that you’re as comfortable as possible throughout your emergency treatment. Our goal is to relieve your pain without causing any additional discomfort.

How quickly can I be seen for an emergency?

We understand how urgent dental issues can be. That’s why we offer same-day appointments for dental emergencies during our regular business hours, and even on select Saturdays, to get you the care you need as quickly as possible.

What if my emergency occurs outside of business hours?

If your emergency happens outside of business hours, don't worry. Just contact our office immediately. We’ll provide emergency care instructions and schedule you for the earliest available appointment to address your urgent needs.

What should I do if my tooth is knocked out?

If your tooth is knocked out, stay calm and handle it carefully. Hold the tooth by the crown (the top part), rinse it gently with water, and if possible, try to place it back in the socket. If you can’t reinsert it, keep the tooth in milk or your saliva, and seek immediate care.

Do you accept dental insurance for emergency visits?

We are currently working on establishing relationships with dental insurance providers. In the meantime, our team will assist you in maximizing your insurance benefits and discuss flexible payment options to ensure you receive the care you need.

What constitutes a dental emergency?

A dental emergency is any situation that causes severe pain, bleeding, or trauma to your teeth or gums. This includes issues like knocked-out teeth, intense toothaches, broken teeth, or dental abscesses. If you're in pain or discomfort, it's important to get prompt care.

Ready to Experience Dentistry Done Differently?