How often should I get my teeth checked?

You should check and clean your teeth at least twice a year. Regular check-ups are the best way to avoid more serious dental concerns.

I don’t have dental insurance; can I still be seen?

Yes, our Sliding Fee Scale makes dental care accessible and affordable for those with no insurance. Waimānalo Health Center’s goal is to improve your health and wellness regardless of ability to pay. Please bring a photo ID, proof of residency (mail addressed to you) and income verification (pay stubs) to register for our Sliding Fee Scale.

Do you see children? When should my child have their first dental visit?

Yes, we welcome everyone – children, adults, kupuna – to visit. It’s recommended to schedule their first visit between the time their first tooth appears and his/her first birthday. After the first visit, check-ups every six months is best.

What are dental sealants and who should get them?

Sealants are a thin, plastic coating applied on the chewing surface of teeth – usually the back teeth – to prevent decay. The coating quickly fills and seals the groves of the teeth and forms a protective shield over the enamel of the tooth. Children should get sealants on their permanent molars as soon as they grow in and during cavity-prone ages of 6 to 14. Adults molars can also benefit from sealants.

How can I tell if I have gingivitis or periodontics (gum disease)?

Signs and symptoms include red, puffy gums, bleeding gums, continued bad breath, new spaces between teeth, loose teeth, pus around teeth and gums, receding gums and increased tenderness or discomfort. Regular check-ups will reduce the chances of these symptoms. Please schedule an appointment as soon as possible if you think you have gingivitis or periodontics.

Why is flossing important?

Flossing is a must because our toothbrushes cannot reach between teeth and under the gumline. These areas are more vulnerable to decay and gum disease. Flossing helps to clean these areas and breaks down plaque build-up. Extreme plaque build-up can lead bone damage and loss of teeth.

Do you have denture services?

Yes, we do partial and complete dentures. Complete dentures are used when all of the teeth are missing, while partial dentures are used when some natural teeth remain. A partial denture not only fills in the spaces created by missing teeth, it prevents other teeth from shifting.

 

Still have questions?

Please call us at 808-259-7948.