Frequently Asked Questions

We know you probably have questions about our practice, procedures, and what to expect during your visit. Here are answers to the most common questions we hear from patients like you.

Dental Checkups

Where is your office located?

We're conveniently located in downtown Miami near Bayfront Park, between CVS and Orange Theory.

What technology do you use?

We utilize advanced technology including 3D scanning, digital X-rays, and intraoral cameras for precise diagnostics and treatment planning.

What makes your practice unique?

Our combination of modern technology, comprehensive services, comfortable amenities, and a multilingual, caring team sets us apart in providing exceptional dental care.

What if I have dental anxiety?

We offer various comfort options including oral sedation and laughing gas to help anxious patients relax. Our gentle approach and caring team will ensure you feel at ease.

What ages do you treat?

We welcome patients of all ages, from infants (6 months+) to seniors, making us your family's complete dental care destination.

How often should I get a dental checkup?

We recommend visiting every six months for routine checkups and cleanings. Some patients may need more frequent visits based on their oral health needs.

Do you provide emergency dental care?

Yes, we offer same-day emergency appointments and have a special $179 emergency exam rate that can be credited toward same-day treatment.

Do you accept insurance?

Yes, we accept all PPO insurance plans and offer various financing options including CareCredit and Cherry to make dental care affordable.

Can I schedule a same-day emergency appointment?

Yes, we typically have availability for same-day emergency appointments with one of our doctors.

Are payment plans available?

Yes, we offer multiple financing options and accept various payment methods including cash, credit cards, and HSA cards.

Invisalign

Will Invisalign affect my speech?

Most patients experience a slight lisp for the first few days as their tongue adjusts to the aligners. This typically resolves within a week with normal speaking. The thin, custom-fit design of Invisalign aligners minimizes speech interference compared to traditional braces.

What makes Relax and Smile Dental Care different from other Invisalign providers in Miami?

As a Platinum Plus Provider, Dr. Cabrera has completed more Invisalign cases than most Miami dentists, ensuring superior expertise. We include professional teeth whitening with treatment, use advanced iTero 3D scanning for precise results, and offer convenient downtown location with validated parking and extended hours.

What happens after my Invisalign treatment is complete?

After achieving your new smile, you'll receive custom retainers to maintain your results long-term. Initially, you'll wear retainers full-time, then transition to nighttime-only wear. Consistent retainer use is essential to prevent your teeth from shifting back to their original positions.

Is Invisalign painful or uncomfortable?

Invisalign is significantly more comfortable than traditional braces. You may experience mild pressure for the first few days with each new set of aligners, which indicates your teeth are moving as planned. Most patients find this much more tolerable than the wire adjustments and mouth sores associated with metal braces.

How often should I wear my Invisalign aligners?

For optimal results, wear your aligners 20-22 hours daily, removing them only for eating, drinking anything other than water, brushing, and flossing. Consistent wear ensures your treatment stays on schedule and delivers the predicted results shown in your 3D preview.

How much does Invisalign cost in Miami?

Invisalign treatment cost varies based on the complexity of your case, typically ranging from $3,000 to $8,000. At Relax and Smile Dental Care, we offer competitive Miami pricing with professional teeth whitening included. We accept all PPO insurance plans and offer 0% financing options through CareCredit, Alphaeon Credit, and Cherry.

How often do I need appointments during Invisalign treatment?

You'll visit our Downtown Miami office every 6-8 weeks to monitor progress and receive your next sets of aligners. These appointments are typically shorter than traditional braces adjustments. Our digital monitoring technology allows us to track your progress efficiently, often requiring fewer visits than other providers.

How do I clean my Invisalign aligners properly?

Clean your aligners daily by rinsing with lukewarm water and gently brushing with a soft toothbrush. Avoid hot water, which can warp the plastic. You can also use Invisalign cleaning crystals or denture cleaners. Never use toothpaste, which can scratch the aligners and make them more visible.

How long does Invisalign treatment take in Miami?

Most patients at our Downtown Miami practice complete Invisalign treatment in 12-18 months, though simple cases may finish sooner and complex cases may take up to 24 months. As a Platinum Plus Provider, Dr. Cabrera will give you an accurate timeline during your free consultation based on your specific alignment needs.

Does dental insurance cover Invisalign in Miami?

Many PPO dental insurance plans include orthodontic coverage that applies to Invisalign treatment, typically covering $1,000-$2,500. Our experienced billing team will verify your specific benefits and maximize your coverage. We also offer flexible financing options to make treatment affordable regardless of your insurance situation.

Can I eat normally with Invisalign aligners?

Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign has no food restrictions. Simply remove your aligners before eating or drinking anything except water, then brush your teeth and rinse your aligners before reinserting them. This prevents staining and maintains good oral hygiene throughout treatment.

Am I a good candidate for Invisalign treatment?

Invisalign can treat most common orthodontic issues including crowded teeth, gaps, overbites, underbites, and crossbites. During your complimentary consultation at our Miami office, we'll use our iTero 3D scanner to determine if Invisalign is right for your specific case or if alternative treatments would be more effective.

Dental Implants

Will my implants look natural?

Yes. Every implant restoration is custom designed to match the color, shape, and size of your surrounding teeth. This creates a seamless result that blends naturally into your smile.

What makes someone a good candidate for implants?

Good candidates for dental implants generally have healthy gums, strong jawbone density, and a commitment to maintaining good oral hygiene. During your consultation at our Downtown Miami office, we will evaluate your mouth with digital scans and discuss whether implants are the best choice for you.

What are the alternatives to dental implants?

If implants are not the right solution for you, other options are available. We provide traditional dentures, fixed bridges, and All-on-4 implant solutions for full-mouth restoration. Our team will guide you through each choice so you can select the option that best fits your needs and goals.

How soon can I eat after getting implants?

Most patients begin with a soft-food diet for the first few days after surgery. As healing progresses, you can gradually return to your normal eating habits. Within a few weeks, many patients enjoy a wide variety of foods again, and once fully healed, implants allow you to eat with complete confidence.

How much do dental implants cost in Miami?

The cost of dental implants varies based on how many teeth need replacement, whether bone grafting is required, and the type of restoration chosen. During your consultation, we will provide a personalized treatment plan and review financing options such as CareCredit, Cherry, and HSA cards. We aim to make high-quality dental implants both affordable and accessible.

How long does the dental implant process take?

The dental implant process usually takes between three to six months. The exact timeline depends on your specific needs and how quickly your jawbone heals. At our Miami office, we use advanced technology such as 3D scans and cone beam CT imaging to plan treatments precisely, which helps many patients complete the process smoothly.

How do I care for my dental implants?

Caring for dental implants is straightforward. You should brush and floss daily and visit us regularly for professional cleanings and checkups. With consistent oral hygiene and routine care, implants can last for many years, often a lifetime.

Can dental implants fail?

Dental implants have a success rate of more than 95 percent when placed and cared for correctly. At Relax and Smile Dental Care, we use advanced techniques and durable materials to give your implants the best chance of long-term success.

Are implants covered by insurance?

Many PPO dental insurance plans offer partial coverage for dental implants. Our team will review your benefits in detail, file claims on your behalf, and work to maximize your coverage so you can lower your out-of-pocket costs.

Are dental implants painful?

Most patients are surprised by how comfortable the procedure feels. We use local anesthesia to numb the area and also provide oral sedation or laughing gas for added relaxation. Our focus is always on keeping you calm and comfortable throughout your visit.

Veneers

Will veneers look natural?

Our custom-crafted veneers are designed to match your facial features, skin tone, and natural tooth characteristics including color, shape, size, and translucency. Using digital smile design technology, we ensure your veneers look so natural that people will think you were born with perfect teeth.

What's the difference between eMax and traditional porcelain veneers?

eMax veneers are made from lithium disilicate ceramic, offering superior strength and durability while requiring less tooth reduction. Traditional porcelain veneers provide excellent aesthetics and have a longer track record. During your consultation, we'll examine your specific case and recommend the material that best meets your needs for strength, appearance, and longevity.

What if I don't like my veneers?

We use digital smile design and temporary veneers to ensure you love your results before final placement. During the temporary phase, we can make adjustments to shape, size, and color. Once permanent veneers are bonded, changes require creating new veneers, which is why we take great care in the design phase to ensure your complete satisfaction.

Is the veneer procedure painful?

Most patients experience minimal discomfort during veneer placement. We use local anesthesia to ensure you're comfortable during tooth preparation, and many patients report the process is easier than expected. We also offer sedation options including laughing gas and oral sedation for anxious patients.

How many veneers will I need?

The number depends on your smile goals and how many teeth show when you smile and talk. Most patients get 6-8 veneers on their upper teeth for a complete smile makeover, though some choose 4 veneers for just their front teeth or 10-12 for a more comprehensive transformation including lower teeth.

How many appointments are needed for veneers?

Most veneer treatments require 2-3 appointments over 2-3 weeks. Your first visit includes consultation and tooth preparation, the second involves trying in your temporary veneers, and the final appointment is for permanent veneer placement. Complex cases may require additional visits.

How long do veneers last?

With proper care and maintenance, porcelain veneers typically last 15-20 years or longer, while eMax lithium disilicate veneers can last even longer due to their superior strength. Many patients enjoy their veneers for decades with regular dental visits and good oral hygiene.

How do I care for my veneers?

Care for veneers just like natural teeth with regular brushing using non-abrasive toothpaste, daily flossing, and routine dental check-ups every six months. Avoid grinding or clenching your teeth, and consider a night guard if you have bruxism. With proper care, your veneers will maintain their beauty for decades.

Can veneers be whitened if they get stained?

Veneers themselves cannot be whitened with bleaching treatments since they're made of ceramic material. However, high-quality veneers are highly stain-resistant and maintain their color for many years. If staining occurs, professional cleaning can often restore their appearance, though severe discoloration may require veneer replacement.

Can I eat normally with veneers?

Yes, you can enjoy most foods normally once your veneers are bonded. However, we recommend avoiding extremely hard foods like ice, nuts, or hard candy, and never use your teeth as tools to open packages. Your veneers are strong but should be treated with the same care as natural teeth.

Are veneers permanent?

Yes, veneers are considered a permanent restoration because we remove a thin layer of enamel (typically 0.5mm) from your natural teeth to ensure proper fit and appearance. While the veneers themselves can be replaced if needed, your teeth will always require some form of covering.

Are veneers covered by dental insurance?

Since veneers are considered a cosmetic procedure, they're typically not covered by dental insurance. However, we accept all PPO plans for any restorative portions and offer flexible financing through CareCredit, Alphaeon Credit, and Cherry, often with 0% interest options to make treatment affordable.

Teeth Whitening

Will Zoom! teeth whitening cause sensitivity?

Some patients experience mild, temporary sensitivity that typically subsides within 24-48 hours after treatment. Our experienced team uses desensitizing gel and can adjust treatment intensity to minimize discomfort, making the process much more comfortable than home whitening products.

Who is a good candidate for professional teeth whitening?

Most adults with healthy teeth and gums are excellent candidates for professional whitening. However, pregnant or nursing women, patients with severe tooth sensitivity, and those with certain types of dental work may need alternative treatments, which we'll discuss during your consultation.

What's the difference between Zoom! whitening and drugstore products?

Professional Zoom! whitening uses clinical-strength gel (15-35% hydrogen peroxide) compared to drugstore products (3-10%), delivering dramatically superior results in one visit versus weeks of daily application. Professional treatment is also monitored for safety and customized to your specific needs.

Is professional teeth whitening safe?

Yes, professional whitening performed by our qualified Miami dentists is completely safe and FDA-approved. We carefully monitor the entire process, use protective measures for your gums, and adjust treatment intensity based on your comfort level to ensure optimal safety.

How should I maintain my teeth whitening results?

Avoid staining substances like coffee, red wine, and tobacco for 48 hours after treatment when your teeth are most porous. Maintain excellent oral hygiene, use a straw for dark beverages, and schedule regular cleanings at our Miami office to extend your results.

How many shades whiter will my teeth get?

Most patients see their teeth become 6-8 shades lighter with our Zoom! whitening system, though results can vary based on your starting tooth color, type of staining, and individual response. During consultation, we'll give you realistic expectations for your specific case.

How long does in-office teeth whitening take?

Our complete Zoom! whitening treatment takes approximately one hour from start to finish, including preparation and post-treatment care instructions. This single visit delivers results that would take weeks or months with at-home products.

How long does professional teeth whitening last in Miami?

Results typically last 1-2 years with proper care and maintenance, significantly longer than over-the-counter products. Factors like coffee consumption, smoking, and wine can affect longevity, but most patients enjoy their bright smile for 12-24 months before needing touch-ups.

Does dental insurance cover professional teeth whitening?

Most dental insurance plans consider teeth whitening a cosmetic procedure and don't provide coverage. However, we accept all PPO plans for any dental health components and offer 0% financing through CareCredit, Alphaeon Credit, and Cherry to make treatment affordable.

Do you offer take-home whitening kits in Miami?

Yes, we provide professional-strength take-home whitening systems with custom-fitted trays for patients who prefer gradual whitening or want to maintain their in-office results. These are much stronger and more effective than store-bought options while remaining safe for home use.

Can all types of teeth stains be removed with whitening?

External stains from coffee, wine, tobacco, and food respond excellently to professional whitening. However, internal stains from medications like tetracycline or fluorosis may require alternative cosmetic treatments like veneers, which we can discuss during your consultation.

Can I whiten my teeth if I have crowns, veneers, or fillings?

Existing dental work like crowns, veneers, and fillings won't change color with whitening treatments. If you have visible dental work, we may recommend replacing it after whitening to match your new brighter teeth, or suggest alternative cosmetic treatments for a uniform appearance.

Emergency Dentistry

Will my emergency dental visit be painful?

Your comfort is our absolute priority during emergency treatment. We offer multiple sedation options including local anesthesia, laughing gas (nitrous oxide), and oral sedation to ensure you're completely comfortable throughout your visit, even when you're already experiencing significant pain.

What should I do for severe tooth pain until I can get to your office?

Take over-the-counter pain medication as directed on the package, apply cold compresses to reduce swelling (never heat), rinse gently with warm salt water, and avoid extremely hot or cold foods. However, don't delay seeking professional treatment—severe pain often indicates serious problems that won't resolve without professional intervention.

What payment options are available for emergency dental care?

We accept all PPO dental insurance plans, cash, all major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover), and HSA/FSA cards. We also offer flexible financing through CareCredit, Alphaeon Credit, and Cherry, often with 0% interest options to make emergency treatment affordable.

What if I need emergency dental care after hours?

Contact our office immediately for guidance on after-hours emergencies. We'll help you determine if your situation requires immediate hospital emergency room care for life-threatening infections or severe trauma, or if it can safely wait for our next available emergency appointment.

What constitutes a dental emergency in Miami?

Any situation causing severe pain, uncontrolled bleeding, facial swelling, or dental trauma requires immediate professional attention. This includes knocked-out teeth, severe toothaches, broken or cracked teeth, lost fillings or crowns, dental abscesses, or any injury that affects your ability to eat, speak, or sleep comfortably.

How long will my emergency dental visit take?

Treatment time varies depending on your specific emergency, but we prioritize urgent cases and work efficiently to provide relief as quickly as possible. Simple procedures like temporary fillings may take 30-60 minutes, while more complex emergencies could require 1-2 hours for comprehensive treatment.

How can I prevent dental emergencies?

Regular dental checkups every six months help catch problems before they become emergencies. Wear protective mouthguards during sports, avoid chewing ice or hard objects, don't use teeth as tools to open packages, and maintain excellent oral hygiene to prevent infections that can lead to painful emergencies.

Do you treat children's dental emergencies?

Yes, we provide gentle emergency dental care for patients of all ages, including infants as young as 6 months old. Our experienced team knows how to handle pediatric dental emergencies while keeping both children and parents comfortable during stressful situations.

Do you offer same-day emergency dental appointments?

Yes, we reserve time every day for dental emergencies and typically have same-day availability with one of our experienced Miami dentists. With two doctors available daily, we can usually accommodate urgent cases even during busy periods without compromising the quality of your care.

Can you save a tooth that's been knocked out or severely damaged?

Success depends on the type of injury and how quickly you seek treatment. Knocked-out teeth have the best chance of being saved if you reach us within one hour. Severely cracked or fractured teeth can often be restored with crowns or other treatments when addressed promptly, preventing the need for extraction.

Are emergency dental visits more expensive than regular appointments?

Our emergency examination fee is $179, which is fully credited toward any same-day treatment you accept. We provide upfront cost estimates for all treatments and work with your insurance to maximize your benefits. Emergency care often costs less than delaying treatment and needing more extensive procedures later.

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