Dental FAQs

Payment is due at the time of your appointment. However, we do offer flexible payment options through CareCredit. For more information, visit www.carecredit.com or call our office, and our staff will help guide you through the process.

Yes, we offer discounts for patients who do not have dental insurance. To take advantage of this, payment must be made in cash or by check.

We do not accept walk-ins. Please contact our office to schedule an appointment in advance.

We begin seeing children starting at the age of three.

Currently, online bill payment is not available. However, you can call our office to make a payment over the phone.

We understand that visiting the dentist can be stressful. Dr. Sahara takes the time to listen to each patient’s concerns and ensures that they fully understand the procedures. She is known for her gentle approach, helping ease dental anxiety.

During your new patient exam, Dr. Sahara will discuss various treatment options to help you achieve your best smile. Every patient receives a personalized care plan.

While most procedures are handled in-house, some may require a specialist’s care. Dr. Sahara will let you know if a referral is needed.

X-rays allow us to detect cavities between teeth, assess bone levels, and identify potential infections, such as periapical abscesses, at the roots of teeth. They are an essential part of comprehensive dental care.

We recommend the Oral-B iO 6 Series. Its round brush head is particularly effective at cleaning along the gumline, especially for patients with gum recession.

You should replace your toothbrush head every three months or sooner if the bristles become frayed.

The timing doesn’t matter as long as you floss once a day. Consistency is key!

For most patients, we recommend a dental cleaning every six months. However, if you have gum disease or a higher buildup of tartar, more frequent cleanings every three to four months may be necessary.

These measurements show how well your gums are attached to your teeth and bone. Higher numbers indicate inflammation or infection, which could be a sign of gingivitis or periodontal disease.

Dry mouth, often caused by certain medications, can increase the risk of cavities. Over-the-counter sprays, gels, and tablets may help alleviate symptoms. Additionally, we recommend using a fluoride treatment at home for extra protection.

A deep cleaning is performed when tartar has built up below the gumline, causing infection. This procedure is typically recommended for patients diagnosed with periodontal disease.

Periodontal disease occurs when bacteria lead to bone loss and gum infection, often due to tartar buildup below the gums or a lack of flossing and regular cleanings. Smoking can also contribute to the development of periodontal disease.

We offer custom-made whitening trays along with professional-strength whitening gel. Simply wear the trays at home for two to four hours daily over a period of two to three weeks to achieve your desired shade.

Being proactive is key to maintaining good oral health. Generally, visiting the dentist every 6mo for a checkup and cleaning is recommended. This helps catch problems like cavities, gum disease, or oral cancer early, even before you notice symptoms. However, the ideal frequency can vary depending on individual needs. For example every 3-4 mos may be recommended for people with gum disease, a history of frequent cavities.

Dental cleanings, exams, Xrays, Fl2 treatment, fillings, tooth extraction, crowns, bridges, dentures, implants, whitening. Cost vary depending on types of insurance. Please contact the Gentle Dentistry of Newnan for further details.

Yes, It is alway best to call the office as early as possible, explain your symptoms clearly.

• Toothache (especially when biting or chewing)
• Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods/drinks
• Visible holes or pits in teeth
• Brown, black, or white staining on the tooth surface
• Bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth

• Red, swollen, or tender gums
• Bleeding when brushing or flossing
• Gums pulling away from the teeth (recession)
• Loose or shifting teeth
• Chronic bad breath or bad taste
• Pus between gums and teeth (in advanced cases)

• • Use a fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled brush
• • Brush for two full minutes, morning and night

• • Removes plaque and food from between teeth where brushing can’t reach

• • Antibacterial or fluoride rinse can help reduce plaque and strengthen enamel

• • Helps rinse away food particles and neutralize acids

• • Limit sodas, candies, and sticky snacks that feed bacteria

1. Composite (Tooth-Colored) Fillings
• Material: Resin mixed with glass or quartz
• Pros:
• Matches natural tooth color
• Bonds well to tooth structure
• Ideal for front teeth or visible areas
• Cons:
• Less durable than metal for large cavities
• Can stain over time
• Best For: Small to medium cavities, especially in visible areas

We at Gentle dentistry of Newnan, only do composite filling Restorations.

2. Amalgam (Silver) Fillings
• Material: A mix of mercury, silver, tin, and copper
• Pros:
• Very durable and long-lasting (10–15+ years)
• Less expensive
• Cons:
• Noticeable metallic appearance
• Requires more tooth removal
• Concerns about mercury (though considered safe by ADA)
• causes teeth to fracture over time

3. Gold Fillings
• Material: Gold alloy
• Pros:
• Extremely durable (lasts 15–30 years)
• Biocompatible and non-corrosive
• Cons:
• Very noticeable and not aesthetically pleasing
• Expensive
• Requires more than one visit
• Best For: People who want longevity and don’t mind the look

4. Ceramic (Porcelain) Fillings
• Material: Porcelain
• Pros:
• Natural-looking
• Stain-resistant
• Long-lasting (10–15 years)
• Cons:
• More brittle than other materials
• More expensive
• very common to get recurrent decay and therefore need root canals , crown or extraction

5. Glass Ionomer Fillings
• Material: Acrylic and a type of glass
• Pros:
• Releases fluoride (helps prevent further decay)
• Bonds to tooth without adhesive
• Cons:
• Weaker, wears out faster (5 years or less)
• Less aesthetic than composite
• Best For: Kids, baby teeth, non-biting surfaces

For most people, visiting the dentist **every six months** is ideal. This routine helps with:

• Early detection of problems like cavities, gum disease, or oral cancer
• Professional cleaning to remove plaque and tartar
• Preventing costly or invasive procedures later

However, you might need more frequent visits (every 3–4 months) if you:
• Have gum disease
• Are prone to cavities
• Have diabetes or other health conditions affecting oral health
• Smoke or use tobacco

Your dentist can recommend the best schedule for your specific oral health needs.

Fluoride is a natural mineral found in water, soil, and some foods. It plays a key role in keeping your teeth healthy by:

• Strengthening tooth enamel
• Reversing early signs of tooth decay
• Making teeth more resistant to acid from plaque and bacteria

Common sources of fluoride:
• Fluoridated tap water
• Fluoride toothpaste
• Fluoride mouth rinses
• Professional fluoride treatments at the dentist

It’s especially important for children as their teeth are developing, but adults benefit too. If you’re at high risk for cavities, your dentist may recommend extra fluoride care.

Wisdom teeth are the third set of molars that usually come in between ages 17 and 25. Many people don’t have enough space in their mouths for them to erupt properly.

Common reasons for removal:
• Impacted (stuck in the gums or jawbone)
• Growing at an angle (crowding other teeth)
• Causing pain or swelling
• Risk of infection or cysts
• Difficult to clean (leading to decay or gum disease)

Not everyone needs their wisdom teeth removed—some people have enough space and no issues. Regular dental x-rays help your dentist monitor them and recommend removal if needed.

Gum disease (also called periodontal disease) is an infection of the tissues that support your teeth. It starts with gingivitis (inflammation of the gums) and can progress to periodontitis (serious gum infection that damages bone and tissue).

Signs of gum disease:
• Red, swollen, or tender gums
• Gums that bleed easily
• Receding gums
• Persistent bad breath
• Loose or shifting teeth

Prevention tips:
• Brush twice a day
• Floss daily
• Use an antibacterial mouthwash
• Get regular dental cleanings (every 6 months)
• Avoid tobacco products

Early detection and treatment can stop or reverse gum disease. Advanced cases may require deep cleaning, medications, or surgery.

Dental implants are a long-lasting solution for replacing missing teeth. They look, feel, and function like natural teeth.

How they work:
1. A small titanium post is surgically placed into the jawbone (this acts as the tooth root)
2. Over a few months, the implant fuses with the bone (a process called osseointegration)
3. A custom crown (artificial tooth) is attached to the implant

Benefits of implants:
• Natural appearance and feel
• Permanent and durable
• Preserve jawbone (prevents bone loss)
• No impact on surrounding teeth (unlike bridges)

Implants require healthy gums and adequate bone. Your dentist will evaluate if you’re a good candidate.

Dental X-rays are very safe. They use a low dose of radiation and provide essential insight into your oral health.

Why they’re used:
• Detect cavities between teeth
• Monitor bone loss
• Check tooth roots and impacted teeth
• Evaluate developing teeth in children

Frequency depends on your dental health:
• New patients: Often require a full set
• Healthy adults: Every 1–2 years
• High risk for decay or gum disease: More often

Modern digital X-rays use up to 90% less radiation than traditional film. Your dentist takes every precaution to minimize exposure, including lead aprons and fast imaging.

We accept all insurance plans. We are in network with some ppo plans and will file for you the plans that do not fall under that umbrella.

Your first visit to Gentle Dentistry of Newnan PC is designed to make you feel comfortable and informed about your oral health. Dr. Ria Sahara will begin with a thorough examination, which may include digital X-rays to provide a detailed view of your teeth, gums, and jawbone. During this time, she will also review your dental and medical history to ensure a complete understanding of your overall health and any potential factors that could affect your dental care. If needed, a professional cleaning will be performed to help keep your teeth healthy and free from plaque buildup.

In addition to the exam, Dr. Sahara will take the time to discuss any concerns or questions you may have about your oral health. Together, you’ll go over her recommendations for any necessary treatments, and she will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that aligns with your goals and comfort level. The entire team at Gentle Dentistry of Newnan PC is committed to creating a welcoming environment where you feel valued and heard, ensuring your first visit is a positive experience that sets the stage for a lasting relationship in maintaining your smile.

We recommend scheduling dental cleanings and exams every six months to maintain optimal oral health. These routine appointments play a crucial role in preventing issues such as decay, gum disease, and plaque buildup. Regular checkups also give Dr. Sahara the opportunity to monitor any changes in your oral health, catch potential problems early, and provide guidance on maintaining healthy habits at home.

For patients with specific dental concerns or conditions, more frequent visits may be necessary to ensure that issues are addressed promptly. Dr. Sahara will work with you to determine the best schedule based on your individual needs, ensuring that you receive the most effective care and support for your unique oral health situation.

If you experience a dental emergency, such as a toothache, swelling, or a broken tooth, it's important to contact Gentle Dentistry of Newnan PC as soon as possible. Our office prioritizes urgent cases, and we will do our best to offer same-day care to address your emergency and relieve any discomfort. We understand how distressing dental emergencies can be, and we’re here to provide quick, effective treatment.

In the meantime, our team is happy to provide you with helpful instructions on how to manage pain or protect a damaged tooth until you can get to our office. Whether it's using a cold compress for swelling, taking over-the-counter pain relievers, or securely storing a knocked-out tooth, we’re here to guide you every step of the way to minimize discomfort and ensure that you receive the necessary care as quickly as possible.

At Gentle Dentistry of Newnan PC, we offer a variety of preventative services to help maintain and improve your oral health. Our routine exams and cleanings are essential for detecting early signs of dental problems such as cavities, gum disease, and oral cancer. We use advanced digital X-rays to get a detailed view of your teeth and gums, allowing Dr. Sahara to identify any issues that may not be visible to the naked eye.

Additionally, we offer fluoride treatments to strengthen your teeth and protect them from decay, as well as comprehensive oral cancer screenings to catch any potential concerns early. For patients who grind their teeth or experience jaw discomfort, we provide custom occlusal (night) guards to protect teeth from damage caused by bruxism. These services are all part of our commitment to preventing dental issues, promoting lifelong oral health, and ensuring that you maintain a bright, healthy smile for years to come.

Fluoride treatments are simple and effective procedures designed to help strengthen your teeth and protect them from cavities. During a fluoride treatment, a concentrated fluoride solution is applied to your teeth, typically in the form of a gel, foam, or varnish. The treatment is quick and non-invasive, usually taking just a few minutes. Fluoride is a mineral that helps remineralize and fortify tooth enamel, making it more resistant to the acids that cause decay.

Fluoride treatments are especially beneficial for children, who may have developing teeth more susceptible to cavities, as well as for adults who are at higher risk of tooth decay due to factors like dry mouth, frequent snacking, or existing dental conditions. By strengthening the enamel, fluoride helps reduce the risk of cavities, supporting a strong and healthy smile over time. This preventive service is an important part of maintaining long-term oral health.

Occlusal night guards are custom-made dental appliances designed to be worn while you sleep. They help protect your teeth from the damage caused by bruxism (teeth grinding) or jaw clenching, which often occurs during sleep. These guards fit comfortably over your teeth and act as a barrier, preventing direct contact between your upper and lower teeth, which helps reduce wear and tear on the enamel.

Night guards are particularly beneficial for individuals who experience symptoms of bruxism, such as waking up with a sore jaw, headaches, or worn-down teeth. They also provide relief from jaw discomfort, as they help alleviate pressure on the temporomandibular joints (TMJ). Dr. Sahara may recommend a night guard if you show signs of teeth grinding or clenching, or if you experience frequent jaw pain. This preventative measure helps protect your smile while promoting comfort and overall oral health.

Oral cancer screenings are a crucial part of your regular dental exams, as they help detect potential signs of oral cancer in its early stages. During the screening, Dr. Sahara will carefully examine your lips, tongue, cheeks, gums, and throat for any unusual growths, lesions, or sores that could indicate a problem. This thorough check helps identify any abnormalities that might otherwise go unnoticed.

Early detection of oral cancer is key to successful treatment, as it significantly increases the chances of a positive outcome. By incorporating routine oral cancer screenings into your care, we can catch potential issues before they develop into more serious conditions, making it an essential preventive step for maintaining your overall health.

At Gentle Dentistry of Newnan PC, we offer a variety of cosmetic dental services to help enhance the appearance of your smile. Whether you're looking to correct discoloration, chips, gaps, or other imperfections, our treatments are designed to deliver natural-looking, beautiful results. Some of the cosmetic services we provide include dental crowns to restore damaged or weakened teeth, bonding to fix small chips or cracks, and veneers to address a range of aesthetic concerns such as stains or misalignment.

For a more comprehensive transformation, we also offer full smile makeovers, which combine multiple treatments to give you the smile you've always wanted. These cosmetic services not only improve the aesthetics of your teeth but also boost your confidence, helping you feel great about your smile every day. Dr. Sahara will work with you to determine the best treatment plan based on your specific goals and needs, ensuring a personalized approach to achieving a radiant, healthy smile.

While cosmetic treatments are primarily focused on enhancing the appearance of your smile, many of these services also play a significant role in restoring function and protecting your oral health. For instance, dental crowns and veneers not only improve the look of damaged or discolored teeth but also help reinforce weakened teeth, making them more durable and functional. This added strength can prevent further damage and improve your ability to chew and speak comfortably.

Dr. Sahara takes a comprehensive approach, carefully balancing both aesthetics and functionality in every treatment. Whether you're receiving a cosmetic or restorative procedure, her goal is to ensure that your smile looks great while also supporting your overall oral health. This way, treatments not only boost your confidence but also contribute to the long-term health and stability of your teeth and gums.

General and restorative dentistry encompasses a wide range of dental services aimed at maintaining and improving both the health and function of your teeth. General dentistry includes routine care such as exams, cleanings, and fillings to help prevent dental problems and address minor issues. Restorative dentistry, on the other hand, focuses on more advanced treatments designed to repair or replace damaged or missing teeth, such as crowns, root canals, bridges, and dental implants.

Dr. Sahara works closely with each patient to restore and maintain optimal oral function, comfort, and appearance. Whether it's addressing cavities, repairing broken teeth, or replacing missing teeth, restorative dentistry ensures that your smile not only looks great but also functions properly, allowing you to eat, speak, and smile with confidence. Each treatment plan is personalized to meet your unique needs, helping you maintain a healthy, beautiful smile for years to come.

If you have chipped, decayed, missing, or sensitive teeth, or if you're experiencing difficulty chewing or discomfort while eating, you may need restorative dental care. These issues can affect both the appearance of your smile and your ability to properly chew and speak. Restorative treatments are designed to address these concerns and restore the function and aesthetics of your teeth.

Dr. Sahara will conduct a thorough evaluation during your appointment, examining your oral health to determine the extent of any damage or decay. Based on her findings, she will recommend the most appropriate treatment options, whether it's a dental filling, crown, root canal, or another restorative procedure. The goal is to repair your smile, improve your overall function, and ensure long-lasting oral health and comfort.

Dental implant crowns are a type of restorative treatment designed to replace missing teeth. They consist of two main parts: a titanium implant, which serves as an artificial root, and a custom-made crown that is placed on top. The titanium implant is surgically inserted into the jawbone, where it fuses with the bone over time in a process called osseointegration. This creates a stable foundation for the crown, which is designed to match the size, shape, and color of your natural teeth.

Once the implant has fully integrated with your jawbone, Dr. Sahara will attach the custom crown, effectively restoring your bite and filling the gap in your smile. Dental implant crowns offer a durable, long-lasting solution for missing teeth, improving both the function and appearance of your smile. Since the crown is tailored to your individual needs, it blends seamlessly with your natural teeth, providing a comfortable and aesthetically pleasing result.

You should consider getting a dental crown if you have a tooth that is cracked, worn down, or structurally weakened. Crowns are designed to restore the shape, strength, and appearance of a damaged tooth, helping to protect it from further damage while also improving its function. If a tooth has become too damaged to support a filling or other type of restoration, a crown can provide the necessary support and protection.

Crowns are also commonly used following root canal treatment to protect a tooth that has been treated for infection. In addition, if you've had a dental implant placed, a crown is often used to cover the implant and restore the missing tooth. Dr. Sahara will evaluate your specific situation and recommend a dental crown if it’s the best option to restore your tooth and maintain your oral health.

A full-mouth reconstruction is a comprehensive, customized treatment plan designed to restore and enhance your entire smile. It involves combining various restorative and cosmetic procedures to address a range of dental issues, including damaged, missing, or decayed teeth. Depending on your needs, treatments may include crowns, dental implants, periodontal therapy to address gum disease, and extractions to remove problematic teeth.

Dr. Sahara will carefully assess your oral health and create a personalized treatment plan to improve both the function and appearance of your smile. The goal is to restore your ability to chew, speak, and smile comfortably while also enhancing the overall aesthetics of your teeth and gums. Full-mouth reconstruction is often recommended for patients who have multiple dental concerns or significant damage to their teeth, providing a holistic solution to improve their oral health and quality of life.

Full-mouth reconstruction is typically not painful, as it is usually performed in phases to allow for proper healing and comfort between treatments. Dr. Sahara and her team prioritize your comfort throughout the process, using advanced anesthesia to ensure you are pain-free during each procedure. Additionally, for patients who experience anxiety or fear about dental work, sedation options are available to help you feel relaxed and at ease during treatment.

While there may be some temporary discomfort or recovery time after certain procedures, most patients find the results well worth it. The comprehensive restoration of your smile can significantly improve your oral health, function, and appearance, leading to lasting benefits that far outweigh the brief recovery period. Dr. Sahara will work closely with you to ensure the process is as comfortable and convenient as possible.

During a tooth extraction, you can expect a comfortable, pain-free experience thanks to the use of local anesthesia, which numbs the area around the tooth to prevent any discomfort. Dr. Sahara will carefully and gently remove the tooth to minimize any stress on the surrounding gums and bone. If the extraction is more complex, she will take extra care to ensure the process goes smoothly and efficiently.

After the extraction, Dr. Sahara will provide you with detailed aftercare instructions to ensure proper healing and minimize any potential complications. These instructions may include advice on managing pain, swelling, and caring for the extraction site. If the extraction leaves a gap in your smile, Dr. Sahara will discuss tooth replacement options, such as dental implants or bridges, to restore your bite and enhance your appearance. The goal is to make the extraction process as easy and stress-free as possible while ensuring the best long-term outcomes for your oral health.

Tooth extraction is not always the only option if you have a severely damaged tooth. Dr. Sahara will first explore all restorative options to try and save the tooth, such as dental crowns or root canal therapy. These treatments can often repair and restore a damaged tooth, allowing it to function properly without the need for extraction.

If, after careful evaluation, Dr. Sahara determines that extraction is the best course of action, she will guide you through the process and discuss your options for replacing the tooth. Whether through dental implants, bridges, or dentures, we’ll work with you to restore your smile and ensure your bite remains functional and comfortable. The goal is to provide the most effective and least invasive treatment to maintain your oral health and appearance.

Periodontal scaling and root planing is a deep cleaning procedure used to treat gum disease, particularly in its more advanced stages. The process involves two main steps: scaling and root planing. Scaling is the removal of plaque and tartar buildup from below the gumline, while root planing smooths the surfaces of the tooth roots to help the gums reattach to the teeth. This procedure helps eliminate harmful bacteria and promotes the healing of the gums.

Scaling and root planing are typically needed when gum disease has progressed beyond a routine cleaning and into a more serious condition, such as periodontitis. Signs that you may need this treatment include gum recession, bleeding gums, or persistent bad breath. By removing plaque and tartar and smoothing the roots, this treatment helps stop the disease from progressing, reduces inflammation, and supports long-term oral health by preventing further damage to the gums and bone. Dr. Sahara will determine if scaling and root planing are necessary based on the severity of your gum disease.

Yes! Gentle Dentistry of Newnan PC is currently accepting new patients of all ages. Whether you're due for a routine checkup, need restorative care, or are interested in cosmetic treatments, our team is here to provide friendly, comprehensive service tailored to your individual needs. Dr. Sahara and our staff are dedicated to making your dental experience as comfortable and welcoming as possible. Contact us today to schedule your first appointment and take the first step toward achieving a healthier, more beautiful smile.