🦷 New Patient Special: $59 Exam & X-Rays — Book Now → FREE Implant Consultation — Schedule Today → $100 OFF Dental Services Over $500 — View Offers → FREE Clear Aligner Consultation — Book Now → No Insurance? Ask About Our Membership Plan →

Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to common dental questions from Planet Family Dental in Lynnwood, WA

Appointment

Are you taking new patients?

Yes! We are accepting new patients from Lynnwood, Edmonds, Mountlake Terrace, Shoreline, Mukilteo, Mill Creek, Bothell, and surrounding communities. Book your first visit.

Does your office take walk-ins?

We will do our best to fit you in. Please make an appointment if possible by calling (425) XXX-XXXX or booking online.

Are you open on Saturdays?

Yes! Our Saturday hours are 8am to 2pm. Full hours: Mon 8-4, Tue 9-6, Wed-Thu 7-3, Fri 8-4, Sat 8-2.

Can I cancel or reschedule my appointment?

Yes, please contact our office directly. We're happy to help you find another day or time that works.

It's been a long time since I've visited the dentist. What do I need to do?

No worries! Just make an appointment. We'll start with an exam and X-rays to assess your current oral health. If additional treatment is needed, we can schedule a future appointment or may be able to start treatment the same day.

Can I fill out my New Patient paperwork ahead of time?

Yes! Visit our New Patients page to download and complete forms prior to your appointment.

When should I take my child to the dentist for their first checkup?

You can bring your child in as soon as they have teeth! The ADA recommends a dental visit within six months of the first tooth erupting, and no later than the first birthday.

Braces

Are clear aligners better than traditional braces?

Both are great options. Clear aligners are removable, nearly invisible, and often faster. Traditional braces may be better for complex cases. Learn more.

What costs more — braces or clear aligners?

Braces typically cost more due to longer treatment and frequent visits. Clear aligners can be more affordable. Call for a free consultation.

How long will I need braces?

Most people need 12-24 months, some up to 36 months. A free consultation will give you a personalized estimate.

How often will I have braces appointments?

Every 4-6 weeks for clear aligners, every 5-10 weeks for wire braces. Your orthodontist will set your schedule.

Are retainers necessary?

Yes — you must wear a retainer to keep teeth in their new positions. Most patients wear one for about a year.

How do I care for my braces?

Brush after every meal, clean around brackets and wires, floss daily, and use fluoride mouthwash. Continue regular checkups during treatment.

How do braces work?

Braces apply gentle, steady pressure to move teeth into proper positions. Brackets are placed on each tooth and connected by an arch wire that guides movement.

What are the different types of braces?

Traditional metal braces, metal braces with colored bands, clear/ceramic braces, and clear aligners. Dr. Sheth can help you choose.

How do Clear Aligners work?

Custom clear plastic trays gradually shift your teeth. You wear each set for 2-3 weeks, then switch to the next. Remove only for eating and cleaning. Learn more.

Do I have to change what I eat with braces?

Yes — avoid hard, sticky, chewy, and crunchy foods. Don't chew ice, popcorn, corn on the cob, or whole apples. Clear aligners have no food restrictions since you remove them to eat.

Can I play sports with braces?

Yes, but wear a protective mouth guard. Ask Dr. Sheth to recommend the right type for orthodontic treatment.

Children

When should my child first see the dentist?

As soon as they have teeth — ideally within six months of the first tooth, and no later than their first birthday.

Are baby teeth really important?

Yes! They help children chew and speak, and hold space for permanent teeth. Early dental visits establish good oral health habits.

What should I do if my child has a toothache?

Rinse with warm water, gently floss to remove trapped food, apply a cold compress if swollen. If pain persists, contact our office.

When should we start using toothpaste?

As soon as teeth appear, brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste. Use a smear for under 2 years, pea-size for ages 2-5. Young children need help brushing.

Costs

How much is a cleaning?

If you're using insurance, teeth cleaning is typically covered at 100%. Without insurance, our membership plan can reduce your out-of-pocket costs significantly.

How much are braces?

Prices vary depending on the complexity of the case. Braces and clear aligner consultations are free. (425) XXX-XXXX at (425) XXX-XXXX for more information.

How much do Clear Aligners cost?

Costs depend on case complexity and treatment length. Typically starting around $2,300 for a light case. Dental insurance should cover a portion. Book a free consultation for a personalized estimate.

How much are implants?

Prices vary depending on the complexity of the case. Implant consultations are often free. (425) XXX-XXXX at (425) XXX-XXXX for more information.

How much is a crown?

Prices vary depending on the complexity and whether you have insurance. (425) XXX-XXXX for a detailed estimate.

How much is a porcelain crown?

Prices vary depending on the case and insurance coverage. (425) XXX-XXXX at (425) XXX-XXXX for more information.

How much is a root canal?

Prices vary depending on the tooth and complexity. (425) XXX-XXXX at (425) XXX-XXXX for more information.

How much are dentures?

Prices vary depending on the type (full, partial, or implant-supported). (425) XXX-XXXX for a detailed estimate.

How much are veneers?

Prices vary depending on the number of veneers and complexity. (425) XXX-XXXX at (425) XXX-XXXX for more information.

How much is a filling?

Prices vary depending on the size and material. (425) XXX-XXXX at (425) XXX-XXXX for more information.

How much does it cost to extract a tooth?

Prices vary depending on the complexity of the extraction. (425) XXX-XXXX at (425) XXX-XXXX for more information.

How much is sedation?

Prices vary depending on the type of sedation and procedure. (425) XXX-XXXX at (425) XXX-XXXX for more information.

How much are X-rays?

If you're using insurance, X-rays are typically covered. We also offer affordable exam and X-ray packages for new patients.

How much is a braces consultation?

Braces and clear aligner consultations are free of charge at Planet Family Dental.

How much is an implant consultation?

Most implant consultations are free. Contact our office to confirm.

How much is a partial?

Prices vary depending on the complexity. (425) XXX-XXXX at (425) XXX-XXXX for more information.

How much are temporary teeth?

Prices vary depending on the case. (425) XXX-XXXX at (425) XXX-XXXX for more information.

How much is it to fix a chipped tooth?

If it's a small chip needing only bonding, the cost is minimal. If more extensive, insurance often covers a portion. Call for details.

Can I get pricing on a particular treatment?

Each case is different, so we cannot provide a specific price without an exam. (425) XXX-XXXX and we'll do our best to answer your questions.

Dental Care

How often should I visit the dentist?

Every six months for routine exams and cleanings. If you have gum disease or other concerns, Dr. Sheth may recommend more frequent visits.

How often should I floss?

Every day! The ADA recommends brushing twice a day and flossing once a day.

Why do my gums bleed?

Bleeding gums can be a sign of gingivitis caused by plaque buildup. If bleeding occurs when you brush, schedule a visit. Learn about gum disease treatment.

What causes bad breath?

Bad breath can be caused by food particles, plaque buildup, or health issues. Regular brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings help. Schedule a visit if it persists.

Why are my teeth sensitive?

Usually caused by worn enamel or exposed roots. Other causes include cavities, cracked teeth, or gum disease. (425) XXX-XXXX to schedule a visit.

What causes crooked teeth?

Many dental problems including crowded teeth and jaw alignment issues are genetic. Others result from habits like thumb-sucking or premature loss of baby teeth.

Dental Emergency

Do you take emergency appointments?

Yes! (425) XXX-XXXX immediately at (425) XXX-XXXX so we can see you as quickly as possible.

What do I do in a dental emergency?

(425) XXX-XXXX immediately. For a knocked-out tooth, handle by the crown and store in milk. For pain, use a cold compress and OTC pain relief. For swelling, apply cold compress and rinse with salt water. Learn more.

When should I see an emergency dentist?

When you have severe pain that OTC medicine can't treat, a knocked-out tooth, uncontrolled bleeding, or significant swelling.

What if a tooth gets knocked out?

Act quickly — see a dentist within 30 minutes. Handle the tooth by the crown only, keep it moist in milk, and bring it to our office immediately.

Will it hurt to get my wisdom teeth extracted?

We use local anesthesia and offer sedation options to keep you comfortable. Most patients report less discomfort than expected. Learn more.

Dental Office

How do I choose the best dentist?

Consider what type of dentist you need, whether they accept your insurance, if hours are convenient, and check online reviews. Planet Family Dental checks all these boxes — schedule a visit to see for yourself.

Are your dentists board certified?

Yes! All dentists must pass rigorous board exams to get their license.

Do your offices have online reviews?

Yes! Check out our reviews on Google, Facebook, and Yelp. You can also read reviews on our testimonials page.

Are my files transferable to your office?

Yes — you can bring your files with you or ask your current provider to send them to our office.

Do you fix chipped dentures?

Yes! Please (425) XXX-XXXX to schedule a repair appointment.

Do you replace missing retainers?

Yes — book an appointment right away to ensure your teeth don't start shifting.

I have dental anxiety. What do you do to help?

We offer sedation options, gentle techniques, and clear communication to help you feel relaxed and comfortable throughout every procedure.

Dental Services

What services do you offer?

Comprehensive dental care including cleanings, implants, crowns, root canals, whitening, clear aligners, emergency care, sedation, and much more.

What are dental implants?

Titanium screws placed in your jaw that act as artificial tooth roots. A custom crown is attached that looks, feels, and functions like natural teeth. Learn more.

What are my options for replacing a missing tooth?

Dental implants (standard of care), fixed bridges, and partial dentures. Dr. Sheth can help you choose the best option.

What are the benefits of dental implants vs. bridges and dentures?

Implants last a lifetime, don't affect adjacent teeth, preserve jawbone, and feel like natural teeth. Bridges need replacement every 5-10 years. Dentures can slip and don't prevent bone loss.

Are dental implants worth it?

Yes — they lower long-term dental costs, outlast bridges and dentures, and look and feel like natural teeth. Learn more about implants.

What is the difference between silver and white fillings?

Silver (amalgam) fillings are durable and cost-effective for back teeth. White (composite) fillings match your tooth color and require less tooth removal. Dr. Sheth can help you decide.

What are dental sealants?

Thin protective coatings on back teeth to prevent decay. Recommended for children ages 6-14. Can protect teeth for up to 10 years. Learn more.

Do I need dental X-rays?

Yes — X-rays reveal conditions not visible during a regular exam including decay between teeth, bone loss, and impacted teeth. Learn more.

What is a dental checkup?

A thorough exam of your teeth, gums, and mouth including X-rays. We recommend checkups every six months. Learn more.

I'm interested in changing the shape of my teeth. What options are available?

Options include bonding for minor changes, veneers for a full smile makeover, or crowns for structural changes. A consultation with Dr. Sheth will determine the best approach.

Financing

Do you have financing options?

Yes, we offer flexible payment plans with low interest rates and extended terms. We also accept most major credit cards, HSA, and FSA. Visit our payment page for details.

Do you accept CareCredit?

Yes! We accept CareCredit and also offer in-house financing to ensure you get the dental care you need.

What ways can I pay for my dental treatment?

We offer dental insurance, our membership plan, special offers, flexible financing with low monthly payments, and all major credit cards including HSA and FSA.

Insurance

Do you accept my dental insurance?

We accept most major PPO insurance plans. (425) XXX-XXXX at (425) XXX-XXXX to confirm we accept your specific plan.

Do you accept Medicaid?

We try to accept state insurance where possible. Please (425) XXX-XXXX to confirm whether we accept your specific plan.

How much is insurance going to pay?

It depends on your insurance and coverage type. Typically most dental insurance covers cleanings every six months. (425) XXX-XXXX for specifics about your plan.

Do you have a dental plan if I don't have insurance?

Yes! Our Membership Plan helps you save on dental services including cleanings, exams, X-rays, and discounts on other treatments.

Still Have Questions?

Call Planet Family Dental at (425) XXX-XXXX or book a consultation.

Book an Appointment