Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about our dental services, procedures, appointments, and more.
Appointments
How do I book an appointment?
You can book an appointment through our website's online booking form, by calling our clinic directly, or by sending us a WhatsApp message. Online bookings are available 24/7 and you will receive a confirmation message once your slot is confirmed.
Can I reschedule or cancel my appointment?
Yes. We kindly ask that you inform us at least 24 hours in advance if you need to reschedule or cancel. This allows us to offer the slot to another patient. You can call us, send a WhatsApp message, or reply to your appointment confirmation to make changes.
What should I bring to my first appointment?
Please bring a valid photo ID, your dental insurance card (if applicable), a list of any medications you are currently taking, and any previous dental X-rays or records if you have them. Arriving 10 minutes early helps complete any paperwork.
How long will my appointment take?
A routine check-up and cleaning usually takes 45–60 minutes. More complex procedures such as root canal treatment, extractions, or crown placements may take 60–90 minutes or require multiple sittings. We will give you a time estimate when you book.
Children & Family
At what age should my child first visit the dentist?
We recommend bringing your child for their first dental visit as soon as the first tooth appears, or no later than their first birthday. Early visits help identify any developmental issues and get your child comfortable with the dental environment.
Are dental X-rays safe for children?
Yes. Modern dental X-rays use very low levels of radiation, and we use digital X-rays which expose patients to up to 80% less radiation than traditional film X-rays. We also use lead aprons for added protection. X-rays are only taken when clinically necessary.
My child is scared of the dentist. How do you handle anxious children?
We understand dental anxiety in children is common. Our paediatric-friendly approach involves a "tell-show-do" technique where we explain and demonstrate before doing anything. We use child-friendly language, take breaks when needed, and create a calm, non-threatening environment. For very anxious children, we can discuss sedation options.
Does my child need a space maintainer if they lose a baby tooth early?
Possibly. If a baby tooth is lost prematurely due to decay or injury, a space maintainer may be needed to hold the gap open for the permanent tooth to erupt correctly. Without it, neighbouring teeth can drift and cause crowding or bite problems. Your dentist will assess the situation and advise accordingly.
Emergency Care
What should I do if I knock out a tooth?
Act fast — time is critical. Pick up the tooth by the crown (not the root), rinse it gently with milk or saline, and try to reinsert it into the socket if possible. If not, keep it in a container of milk or saliva (not water). Call us immediately — a knocked-out tooth can often be saved if you reach us within 30–60 minutes.
Is a cracked or chipped tooth a dental emergency?
It depends on the severity. A minor chip with no pain may wait a day or two, but a cracked tooth with sharp edges, pain while biting, or sensitivity to temperature should be seen the same day to prevent further damage or infection. When in doubt, call us and we will advise you.
I have a severe toothache. Can you see me the same day?
Yes. We reserve emergency slots every day for patients in acute pain. Please call us as early as possible and describe your symptoms so we can prioritise your appointment. Do not take aspirin directly on the gum — you may take a painkiller like ibuprofen or paracetamol while you wait.
What counts as a dental emergency?
Dental emergencies include: severe toothache, knocked-out or displaced tooth, broken tooth with pain, lost crown or filling causing pain, swelling of the face or jaw, dental abscess, or uncontrolled bleeding from the mouth. If you experience any of these, call us immediately rather than waiting for a routine appointment.
General
What are your clinic hours?
We are open Monday to Saturday from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. On Sundays we are available from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM for emergency cases only. You can also book appointments online anytime.
Do I need to book an appointment or can I walk in?
While we do welcome walk-in patients, we strongly recommend booking an appointment in advance to avoid waiting. This ensures you receive dedicated time with your dentist and reduces your waiting time significantly.
How often should I visit the dentist?
For most adults, a dental check-up and cleaning every six months is recommended. However, patients with gum disease, a history of cavities, or other oral health concerns may need to visit more frequently — typically every 3 to 4 months. Your dentist will advise a schedule that suits your specific needs.
Do you accept dental insurance?
Yes, we work with most major dental insurance providers. Please bring your insurance card and ID to your appointment. Our front desk team will help you understand your coverage and estimate your out-of-pocket costs before treatment begins.
Is your clinic hygienic and sterilised?
Absolutely. We follow strict sterilisation protocols in line with dental council guidelines. All instruments are autoclaved after every patient, single-use disposables are used wherever possible, and treatment areas are thoroughly disinfected between appointments.
Payment & Costs
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept cash, all major debit and credit cards, UPI (Google Pay, PhonePe, Paytm), and net banking. We also accept most cashless insurance claims. Please enquire at the front desk about your insurance provider.
Do you offer EMI or payment plans for expensive treatments?
Yes. For treatments such as dental implants, full-mouth rehabilitation, or orthodontic procedures, we offer flexible payment plans to help make treatment affordable. Zero-cost EMI options are available on select credit cards. Please speak to our front desk team for details.
Is there a consultation fee?
Yes, we charge a nominal consultation fee for the initial examination. This is often adjusted against the cost of treatment. Please call us or check our website for the current consultation fee as it may vary by dentist and specialty.
Will I receive an invoice or receipt for my treatment?
Yes. A detailed itemised invoice is generated for every treatment. You can receive it as a printed copy or via email. Invoices include a breakdown of procedures, taxes, discounts, and payment received — useful for insurance reimbursement.
Treatments
Is a root canal treatment painful?
Modern root canal treatment is performed under local anaesthesia and is no more painful than a routine filling. Most patients are surprised by how comfortable the procedure is. You may experience mild soreness for a day or two afterwards, which is manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers.
How many sittings does a root canal treatment require?
Most root canal treatments are completed in 1–2 sittings depending on the severity of infection and the tooth involved. Molars with multiple canals may require an additional sitting. Your dentist will outline the expected number of visits at your consultation.
Is teeth whitening safe?
Yes. Professional in-office teeth whitening is safe when performed by a qualified dentist. We use clinically tested bleaching agents at the appropriate concentration. Some patients experience temporary sensitivity, which subsides within 24–48 hours. We do not recommend whitening for patients with severe enamel erosion or untreated cavities.
How long do dental implants last?
Dental implants are designed to last a lifetime with proper care. The implant fixture (titanium post) is permanent, while the crown on top may need replacement after 10–15 years due to normal wear. Good oral hygiene and regular check-ups are key to implant longevity.
What is the difference between a crown and a veneer?
A dental crown covers the entire tooth and is used when a tooth is cracked, severely decayed, or after root canal treatment. A veneer is a thin shell bonded to the front surface of a tooth, primarily for cosmetic purposes such as correcting colour, shape, or minor misalignment. Your dentist will recommend the right option based on your dental condition.
How long does orthodontic treatment (braces or aligners) take?
Treatment duration depends on the complexity of your case. Mild to moderate corrections typically take 12–18 months, while more complex cases may require 24 months or more. Clear aligners can sometimes be faster than traditional braces for suitable cases. A personalised treatment plan with timeline will be prepared after your orthodontic consultation.
Still Have Questions?
Can't find the answer you're looking for? Our friendly team is happy to help.
Join 5,000+ happy patients
Ready to Experience
the Difference?
Book your appointment today and discover why thousands of patients trust Mehra Dental Clinic for their oral health.