Frequently Asked Questions

We use digital X-rays, intraoral cameras, and iTero scanning to ensure accurate diagnoses and comfortable care. These tools also help us explain what we see more clearly—so you’re always in the loop.

Yes. Our digital X-rays use a very low dose of radiation and provide high-quality images that help us detect issues early while keeping you safe.

We listen first. Dr. Asthana takes time to understand your goals, your lifestyle, and the full story behind your smile. It’s comprehensive care—delivered with warmth, honesty, and a deep connection to the Sugar Land community.

We’ll explain exactly what we see, what it means, and your options. You’ll get a clear treatment plan and plenty of time to ask questions—no pressure, no surprises.

Yes, we treat kids, teens, and adults. Our pediatric checkups are gentle, encouraging, and designed to make dentistry a positive experience for young patients.

We work with most major PPO insurance plans and are happy to review your benefits and file claims for you. Our team will walk you through your options so you can make the most of your coverage.

Plan for about an hour, depending on your needs. This allows time for a full cleaning, exam, X-rays if needed, and a one-on-one conversation with Dr. Asthana.

You're in the right place. We offer a supportive, judgment-free space and take extra time to help you feel comfortable—always going at your pace.

Most patients benefit from visiting every six months. Depending on your oral health, medical history, or risk factors, we may recommend more frequent checkups.

Book your free consultation at our Sugar Land office. We’ll answer your questions, scan your smile, and build a clear plan tailored just for you.

Many PPO dental plans include orthodontic coverage for Invisalign. We’ll help verify your benefits and walk you through financing options if needed.

Absolutely. Invisalign Teen is designed with young patients in mind and includes features that track wear time and support developing smiles.

Once your treatment is complete, we’ll provide a custom retainer to help maintain your results. Dr. Asthana will guide you on when and how often to wear it.

You’ll wear them 20–22 hours a day, only removing them to eat, drink, brush, and floss.

Use lukewarm water and a gentle toothbrush or soap. Avoid hot water, which can warp the plastic. We’ll also recommend cleaning solutions for extra freshness.

Yes—just take your aligners out when eating or drinking anything besides water. You can enjoy your normal diet without restrictions.

You may feel light pressure when starting a new set of aligners, but it typically fades within a day or two. Most patients describe it as mild and manageable.

Treatment times vary, but most patients see results in 12–18 months. Dr. Asthana will create a personalized timeline based on your bite and goals.

Many insurance plans cover inlays and onlays. Our team will help you verify your benefits and provide a clear cost estimate before treatment.

Most patients experience little to no discomfort during treatment. Because we preserve more of your natural tooth, you may even have less sensitivity than with traditional dental work.

Traditional crowns often require significant removal of tooth structure. Biomimetic inlays and onlays are more conservative—they restore only the damaged areas while leaving the healthy parts untouched.

Yes. We use high-quality materials that are carefully color-matched to your existing teeth for a seamless finish that looks and feels like your natural tooth.

Biomimetic restorations use adhesive, tooth-colored materials that mimic the natural properties of your tooth. They’re bonded in place to restore strength and function—without the need to remove healthy structure.

Early care, managing stress, and addressing bite imbalances proactively can all help prevent TMJ issues from worsening.

We combine advanced training, modern tools, and local care that’s rooted in compassion. Dr. Asthana takes time to get to know you—and it shows in the quality of your results.

Costs vary depending on your treatment plan. We provide transparent pricing and flexible options to help make care accessible.

Yes. Many patients see significant improvement with consistent appliance use and occlusal adjustments.

If you’re experiencing jaw pain, clicking, headaches, or trouble chewing, it’s time for a professional evaluation.

No. Our appliances are custom-fitted for comfort and designed to relieve pressure, not add to it.

Not quite. A night guard primarily protects teeth from grinding. A TMJ appliance is calibrated to help guide your jaw into a healthier, more relaxed position.

Some patients feel relief within weeks, especially with consistent use of oral appliances. Others may benefit from ongoing bite care or lifestyle adjustments.

Coverage varies. We’ll review your benefits and help you understand what’s included—and discuss flexible financing options if needed.

TMJ dysfunction can be caused by a combination of clenching, grinding, bite imbalances, stress, arthritis, or jaw injury. A thorough evaluation helps us pinpoint your specific cause.

Avoid staining foods and drinks, use a straw when drinking coffee or wine, brush and floss daily, and consider occasional touch-ups.

Absolutely. We offer professional-grade take-home kits with custom trays and detailed instructions, so you can whiten safely on your schedule.

Most patients see a change of several shades. The degree of whitening depends on your natural enamel color and the type of stains you have.

Yes. Professional treatments use higher-quality ingredients, protect your gums, and deliver more consistent results. Plus, you have expert support at every step.

Whitening gel won’t change the color of dental restorations, so we may recommend replacing old work after whitening for a uniform look.

You may feel some temporary sensitivity, especially during the first 24 hours, but we take steps to minimize this. We also offer desensitizing products if needed.

Results typically last from 6 months to 2 years, depending on your oral hygiene, diet, and habits like smoking or coffee consumption.

Stay consistent with your checkups, wear a mouthguard for sports, avoid chewing hard objects, and don’t ignore minor issues—they can escalate quickly.

Yes. If appropriate, we’ll prescribe medication to manage infection or pain while we complete treatment.

In many cases, yes. Emergency treatment gets you out of pain and stabilizes the situation. Additional visits may be needed for full repair or healing.

Call our office number—our voicemail will guide you through what to do and how to reach us in an urgent situation.

Most plans cover some emergency care. We’ll help verify your benefits and review all costs upfront.

We offer local anesthesia and laughing gas to keep you comfortable. We’ll always explain what to expect and check in throughout.

Absolutely. Pain is your body’s way of signaling something isn’t right. We’ll figure it out together.

Yes. We keep time open each day for urgent care and do our best to see you as soon as possible.

Anything involving severe pain, infection, trauma, or bleeding should be treated as a dental emergency. Call us if you’re unsure—we’ll help you decide.

Keep it moist—ideally in your mouth or a small container of milk. Avoid touching the root. Call us immediately.

Yes. We set aside time each day for dental emergencies and do our best to see you the same day if you're in pain or need urgent care.