Dental Care FAQs

McAllen Dental answers common questions on appointments, insurance, procedures, and easing dental anxiety. We accept most PPO plans, offer sedation options, and prioritize patient comfort.

A dentist at McAllen Dental patiently explains a procedure using a tablet, demonstrating our commitment to patient education and comfort.

Appointments & Scheduling

We strive to make scheduling your dental care as convenient as possible. New and existing patients can book appointments by calling our McAllen office at 956-686-5000. We recommend scheduling your next preventive check-up before leaving our office to maintain your six-month routine. If you need to reschedule, we request 24 hours’ notice so we can offer that time to another patient. For your first visit, please arrive a few minutes early to complete any necessary paperwork, and bring your dental insurance card and a list of any medications you are taking.

Insurance, Payments, & Financing

Understanding the financial aspect of dental care is important. We are in-network with many major dental insurance PPO plans and will file claims directly with your provider. It’s important to remember that your insurance policy is a contract between you and your insurer; we can provide estimates, but final coverage is determined by your plan. For patients without insurance or with treatments not fully covered, we offer several payment options, including cash, check, major credit cards, and third-party financing plans through CareCredit. We believe everyone deserves access to quality dental care and are happy to discuss all available payment options for Rio Grande Valley families.

Common Procedures & What to Expect

Knowing what to expect can ease any anxiety about dental procedures.

  • Cleanings & Exams: A routine visit includes a professional cleaning to remove plaque and tartar, a thorough examination of your teeth and gums, and often digital X-rays to check for issues not visible to the eye. * Fillings: For cavities, we use tooth-colored composite resin that matches your natural tooth shade, providing a strong, aesthetic repair. * Crowns & Bridges: These restorative solutions are used for extensively damaged or missing teeth. We use high-quality materials and precise digital impressions for a perfect fit. * Root Canals: This procedure treats infected tooth pulp. With modern techniques and anesthesia, it is far more comfortable than its reputation suggests and saves the natural tooth.

For all procedures, our team will explain each step, and you can learn more about maintaining results through our preventive care guide.

Overcoming Dental Anxiety

It’s normal to feel nervous about dental visits. At McAllen Dental, patient comfort is our top priority. We create a calm, welcoming environment and encourage open communication. Tell us about your concerns so we can tailor your experience. We offer sedation dentistry options, including nitrous oxide (“laughing gas”) and oral sedation, to help you relax during treatment. Our team moves at your pace, explains everything in advance, and uses gentle techniques. Our goal is to build a trusting relationship where you feel safe and in control throughout your care.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if I have a dental emergency?

Signs of a dental emergency include severe toothache, a knocked-out (avulsed) tooth, a loose permanent tooth, significant swelling in your mouth or face, bleeding that won't stop, or a cracked tooth with pain. If you experience any of these, call us immediately for instructions and to schedule urgent care.

What is the best way to whiten my teeth?

Professional, in-office whitening supervised by Dr. Cazares is the safest and most effective method. We use high-concentration bleaching agents that provide dramatic results in about an hour. We also offer custom-fitted take-home whitening kits for more gradual lightening. Over-the-counter products are less effective and can cause sensitivity or uneven results.

Why are regular dental X-rays necessary?

Digital X-rays allow us to see problems that are invisible during a visual exam, such as decay between teeth, infections in the bone, cysts, tumors, and bone loss from gum disease. They are a critical diagnostic tool for providing complete care. Our digital system uses up to 90% less radiation than traditional film X-rays.

How can I prevent cavities?

Prevention is multi-faceted: brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, floss once daily, limit sugary snacks and drinks, use a fluoride mouthwash if recommended, and visit us every six months for professional cleanings and check-ups. These habits disrupt the plaque bacteria that cause decay.