San Francisco Dentist Dr. Stella Kim, DDS

Why do I have to come in every six months?

Patients with few dental problems are sometimes tempted to skip their regular cleanings. Don’t do it! People’s dental health needs change with age, and regular cleanings are a great way to make sure there aren’t any problems sneaking up on you unnoticed. Early detection often leads to a better outcome.

Plus, not only do regular cleanings lead to better health, they also save you money in the long run—routine exams and cleanings can help detect problems early so you can avoid expensive and unpleasant treatments like root canals.

Is mouthwash really worth the effort?

It depends on your oral health. It is often beneficial to use mouthwash, but it might not be necessary in your specific case. Regardless, mouthwash is never a replacement for brushing and flossing. Check out our Ask a Dentist article on mouthwash to learn more.

How often should I brush and floss?

Most people should brush and floss at least twice a day. If you have pre-existing periodontal issues, or if you’re undergoing orthodontic or Invisalign treatment, you may need to brush and floss more often.

Do you take my insurance?

We work with many PPO dental insurance plans. Before coming to your appointment, please call us with your insurance information so we can help you look up your benefit level.

Please note, we will need your specific plan information, not just the provider, since most insurance companies offer many different plans. Some patients believe there must be a central insurance database where we can look them up, but unfortunately this is not the case.

We want to make sure your treatment estimates are as accurate as possible. Providing your insurance information well in advance of your appointment helps minimize unpleasant billing surprises down the road. For more information, check out our insurance and payment page.

I don’t have dental insurance, should I get it?

It really depends on your personal needs. We offer competitive self-pay rates, and many of our patients go this route. If your dental health is generally good, insurance may not actually save you any money.

However, if you have a lot of recurring dental issues, insurance may be the better choice. Keep in mind that most plans have an exclusion period of six months or more after you sign up, so you need to prepare in advance. Make sure you look through the plan specifics before you buy.

What can I do about bad breath?

Bad breath is often the sign of an underlying issue, and it can usually be eradicated or significantly improved through treatment. Check out our article on bad breath for more tips.

I grind my teeth. Do I really need a night guard?

It is usually a good idea. Teeth grinding and/or clenching (officially called parafunctional habits) are a very common condition that can wear down your teeth and lead to fractures.

Your night guard needs to be carefully customized to your mouth in order for it to work properly. When they are well-made, patients usually find night guards quite comfortable and easy to use.

If you have concerns about grinding or clenching, or if your night guard isn’t very comfortable, let us know. Dr. Kim will be happy to go over treatment options with you during your appointment at SF Dental.