PATIENT QUESTIONS & CLINICAL GUIDE

Frequently Asked Questions

Transparent clinical answers by Dr. Dipika Dodeja regarding cosmetic dentistry, restorative treatments, smile enhancements, and practice procedures at Dental Reforms in Naupada, Thane.

1. Smile Design & Aesthetic Planning

How does Dr. Dipika Dodeja plan a personalized smile design?

Smile design begins with a comprehensive photographic and facial aesthetic analysis. Dr. Dipika evaluates lip symmetry, gum contours, and tooth visibility during speaking and smiling. A physical or digital mock-up is created so you can preview your anticipated aesthetic contours before any permanent restorative treatment begins.

By evaluating how teeth harmonize with your unique facial shape, skin undertone, and smile arc, every restoration is customized rather than using a standardized formula.

2. Porcelain Veneers

How long do custom porcelain veneers typically last?

High-quality porcelain veneers crafted from dental ceramics typically last 10 to 15 years or longer when supported by consistent oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups. Maintaining proper brushing, flossing, avoiding chewing ice or pens, and wearing a nightguard if you clench ensure optimal ceramic longevity.

Glazed dental porcelain is biologically inert and resistant to everyday tea, coffee, and nicotine discoloration, ensuring long-lasting shade stability.

3. Teeth Whitening

Is professional teeth whitening safe for natural tooth enamel?

Yes, professional dental whitening administered under clinical supervision is safe for enamel. The treatment utilizes pH-balanced formulations that penetrate microscopic enamel pores to dissolve organic stain molecules without stripping, thinning, or damaging the underlying mineral structure of your natural teeth.

Any transient post-whitening temperature sensitivity typically resolves naturally within 24 to 48 hours following application of desensitizing gels.

4. Clear Aligners & Orthodontics

How many hours per day must clear aligners be worn?

Clear aligners must be worn for 20 to 22 hours each day to achieve planned orthodontic tooth movements on schedule. Aligners should only be removed during meals, when drinking hot or sugary beverages, and during your morning and evening brushing and flossing routines.

Inconsistent daily wear reduces biological movement pressure, which can prolong treatment timelines and affect aligner fit.

5. Dental Implants & Replacement

What is the typical healing timeline for dental implants?

The primary osseointegration period—where the titanium implant biologically integrates with the surrounding jawbone—typically takes 3 to 6 months depending on bone density. Once integration is clinically and radiographically verified, custom permanent abutments and lifelike crowns are securely attached.

Patients receive a temporary aesthetic restoration during healing so chewing function and appearance are maintained throughout recovery.

6. Root Canal Treatment & Comfort

Is modern root canal treatment comfortable?

Yes. Modern endodontic treatment is performed under profound local anaesthesia with gentle rotary instrumentation. The primary purpose of a root canal is to eliminate the source of acute infection and toothache, ensuring patient comfort throughout the procedure with minimal post-treatment soreness.

Most patients find the experience comparable to a routine filling, reporting immediate relief from throbbing infection pain.

Clinic Quick Facts • Dental Reforms

Location
102, Yashwant Building, Ram Maruti Road, Naupada, Thane West 400602
Lead Specialist
Dr. Dipika Dodeja (M.D.S. Prosthodontics, 15+ Yrs Experience)
Clinic Hours
Mon – Sat: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM | Sun: By Appointment
Appointments
Call / WhatsApp +91 79000 13190