Experience Advanced, Patient-First Dental Care in Costa Mesa

A crown covers a single damaged tooth, while a bridge replaces one or more missing teeth by anchoring to adjacent teeth.

Dental implants can potentially last a lifetime with proper care, though their average lifespan is typically 10-30 years. Several factors influence implant longevity, including oral hygiene practices, the quality of the implant and its placement, and the patient's overall health and lifestyle. Regular dental cleanings, proper brushing and flossing, and using appropriate dental care products are crucial for maintaining implants. While the implant itself can last decades, the crown portion usually needs replacement every 10-15 years due to normal wear. Medical conditions like diabetes, cancer, and autoimmune diseases may reduce implant lifespan. Additionally, lifestyle factors such as smoking, alcohol consumption, and diet can impact implant success. Proper placement by an experienced dentist and avoiding misuse or excessive pressure on the implant are also essential for long-term success.

Not always. The necessity depends on the extent of damage and whether the tooth's pulp is affected. Dr. No can assess and recommend the best treatment.

Tooth-colored fillings are more aesthetically pleasing, bond better to the tooth structure, and don't contain mercury.

Dentures typically need to be relined every one to two years, but this can vary depending on the patient's gum tissue and bone structure. A reline can help dentures last longer by refitting the base of the denture with new material to account for changes in the mouth caused by aging and jawbone deterioration. You should consider getting a reline if your dentures feel uncomfortable, are loose, or don't fit properly. Other signs that it might be time for a reline include difficulty chewing, gum irritation, and fungal infection in the mouth.

We offer various options including professional teeth whitening, porcelain veneers, and clear aligners.

Results can last from several months to a few years, depending on oral hygiene and lifestyle factors.

Veneers are considered a long-term solution, typically lasting 10-15 years with proper care.

Yes, options like veneers or bonding can often close small gaps without orthodontics.

In-office treatments provide faster results in a single visit, while take-home treatments offer gradual whitening over a longer period.

Most dental insurance plans do not cover purely cosmetic procedures. However, some treatments may be partially covered if they also serve a functional purpose.

We offer CareCredit to help make dental care more affordable.

A dental procedure is considered cosmetic or elective if it primarily aims to enhance the aesthetics of a patient's smile without addressing any underlying medical issues. These procedures are performed on teeth or tissues that are not injured, impaired, or decayed, and there is no medically necessary reason for the alteration. Essentially, cosmetic dental treatments focus solely on improving the appearance of teeth and gums rather than treating functional problems or health concerns. Such procedures are optional and are typically chosen by patients who wish to enhance their smile's visual appeal.

Yes! We do offer discounts for patients not covered by insurance.

Yes, we offer financing options through CareCredit that allow you to spread payments over time.

During your first visit to Harbor Modern Dentistry, you can expect a comprehensive dental experience. The appointment typically includes a thorough oral examination, where the dentist will assess your overall oral health. If necessary, x-rays will be taken to get a detailed view of your teeth and jaw structure. The dentist will also perform a teeth cleaning to remove plaque and tartar buildup. Additionally, intraoral photographs may be taken to document your current dental condition. Throughout the visit, you'll have the opportunity to discuss your oral health goals and any concerns you may have with the dentist.

Contact your previous dentist and request that they send your records to our office. We can also provide you with a release form to facilitate this process.

You'll need to complete our new patient forms, which include your medical history and insurance information. These can be found on our website. You can print these out, fill them in, and bring them with you to your first appointment.

New patients have to come in to the office to be properly diagnosed. However, we can do virtual consultations for existing patients who are traveling and have a concern.

A typical new patient exam usually takes about 60-90 minutes, allowing time for a thorough examination and discussion of your dental health.