Frequently asked questions

Yes! We welcome patients of all ages, from a child’s first visit to adults and seniors. Call (713) 344-0498 or request an appointment online.

We’re in-network with most major dental insurance plans, including Aetna, BCBS, Cigna, Delta Dental, Guardian, Humana, MetLife, United Concordia, and UnitedHealthcare. We also accept Texas Medicaid and CHIP (DentaQuest, MCNA). See our full list on the Insurance page.

Yes. Same-day emergency appointments and walk-ins are welcome. Call ahead if you can, and we’ll get you in as quickly as possible.

Yes. We’re open Saturdays from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM, so you don’t have to miss school or work.

We accept Visa, MasterCard, and Discover, plus cash, personal checks, in-house financing, and CareCredit.

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends a first visit as early as six months and no later than age one. After that, schedule check-ups every six months.

Regular visits keep your teeth and mouth healthy, and they help the rest of your body stay healthy too. Dental care:

• Helps prevent tooth decay
• Protects against gum (periodontal) disease, which can lead to tooth and bone loss
• Reduces the bacteria that cause bad breath
• Keeps teeth bright by preventing stains from food, drinks, and tobacco
• Gives you a more attractive smile and more confidence

Yes. Problems can exist without any symptoms. Regular visits catch them early, and today’s dentistry offers many ways to improve your smile, including professional whitening, tooth-colored fillings, tooth replacement, and full smile makeovers.

Children, teens, and adults should all have a check-up at least every six months. Patients at higher risk for gum disease or oral cancer may need more frequent visits. Dr. Elahi will recommend the right schedule for you.

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends a first visit as early as six months and no later than age one, while the first baby teeth are coming in. After that, schedule check-ups every six months.

Yes, and they matter even more. Braces trap food in places a toothbrush can’t reach, which can lead to cavities and gum disease. Your dentist will work with your orthodontist to keep your teeth clean and healthy during treatment.

Choose a dentist who “clicks” with you and your family. At your first visit, ask yourself:

• Is the schedule convenient, and is the office easy to get to?
• Is the office clean and orderly?
• Were your medical and dental history recorded?
• Does the dentist explain how to care for your teeth?
• Are costs explained before treatment is scheduled?
• Is the dentist a member of the American Dental Association?

A cavity is a small hole in a tooth caused by decay. Plaque on your teeth combines with sugars and starches from food to produce acid that eats away at enamel. Untreated cavities can lead to more serious problems. Brushing and flossing every day helps prevent them.

After the decay is removed, a filling material restores the tooth. Fillings generally don’t hurt because the area is numbed first, and nitrous oxide can help you relax. Fillings can be made from composite, ceramic, amalgam, or gold. Ask us which type is best for you.

Gum (periodontal) disease is mostly caused by plaque and bacteria that aren’t removed early. Tobacco, teeth grinding, some medications, and genetics also play a role. Gingivitis, the early stage, is treatable. If it isn’t treated, it can lead to tooth and bone loss. Common signs include:

• Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
• Chronic bad breath
• Loose or lost teeth
• Extreme tooth sensitivity
• Receding gums
• Abscessed teeth

The type of bristle and the size of the head matter more than the brand. A soft brush with a small head is best. Medium and hard bristles can irritate gums and contribute to recession, and a small head reaches around each tooth more easily. There’s no need to scrub.

Brush at least twice a day for two minutes with fluoride toothpaste, and brush your tongue too. Replace your toothbrush every three months, or every four to six weeks if you have gum disease. Always replace it after you’ve been sick.

A few simple habits make a big difference:

• Brush with fluoride toothpaste and floss at least once a day
• Limit sugary foods, which feed cavity-causing bacteria
• Avoid tobacco, which stains teeth and causes gum disease and oral cancer
• Brush your tongue to remove bacteria and keep your breath fresh
• Keep your six-month check-ups

Yes. Nitrous oxide has been used in dentistry for many years. You breathe on your own and stay in control, it starts working within minutes, and its effects wear off quickly with no “hangover.” It also helps reduce gagging. It isn’t recommended for people with COPD or certain breathing problems, so tell us about your health history. You can ask for a short trial first.