Frequently Asked Questions
We know that choosing the right dentist and understanding your dental care options can be overwhelming. That’s why we’ve put together this handy Q&A to address some of the most common questions about our services, insurance, and how we can help you achieve a healthy, confident smile.
Whether you’re wondering about routine cleanings, cosmetic treatments, or financing options, we’re here to make your experience as smooth and stress-free as possible. If you don’t see your question here, feel free to give us a call—we’re always happy to help!
- What services does Family Dental Care offer? We provide a range of services, including crowns and bridges, dental cleanings, cosmetic dentistry, fillings, implant restoration, root canals, whitening, and dentures.
- What is the experience of Dr. Irina Yesina? Dr. Irina Yesina has been practicing dentistry for over 20 years, since 2003, offering high-quality general and cosmetic dental care for all ages.
- Does Family Dental Care accept insurance? Yes, we accept major insurance providers, including Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna, Delta Dental, MetLife, and more.
- What financing options are available? We offer 0% financing through CareCredit to make dental treatments more affordable.
- What are the office hours? Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday: 10:00AM – 6:30PM.
Open every other Saturday, 10:00AM-2:00PM. - What is a dental crown, and when do I need one? A crown is placed over a damaged tooth to restore its shape, strength, and function. It is needed for severely decayed, cracked, or weakened teeth.
- How often should I get a dental cleaning? A professional cleaning is recommended every six months to prevent cavities and gum disease.
- What is the benefit of dental implant restoration? Implant restorations provide a permanent, natural-looking solution for missing teeth while preserving jawbone health.
- Does Family Dental Care offer cosmetic dentistry? Yes, we offer teeth whitening, veneers, and bonding to enhance your smile.
- Where is Family Dental Care located? We are located at 602 Flatbush Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11225.
- When should I bring my child to the Dentist? We recommend bringing your child to the dentist as soon as their first teeth appear and continuing with regular checkups every six months.
Early visits help your child view dental visits as a normal, positive experience and prevent negative associations with pain. Starting dental care early helps avoid future dental issues. - What insurances do you accept? Dr Yesina is In-network with most major insuranes, such as, Aetna, Bluecross Blueshield, Cigna, Delta Dental, CSEA, Guardian, Humana, Metlife, 1199, Medicaid, Fidelis, Healthfirst and more!
If you do not see your plan here, please give the office a call at 718-778-7600 and a member of our staff will be happy to verify. - Why is it important to have my teeth professionally cleaned every six months? Routine dental cleanings every six months play a key role in maintaining oral health, even for those who brush and floss regularly. Professional cleanings remove plaque and tartar buildup in areas that are difficult to reach at home, helping to prevent cavities and gum disease.
For individuals prone to faster tartar buildup or with less consistent oral hygiene, more frequent cleanings may be recommended.
Most dental insurance plans cover two cleanings per year, and beyond the health benefits, cleanings also leave your teeth feeling refreshed and looking their best. - How Can I Keep My Child’s Teeth Healthy as They Grow? Establishing strong oral hygiene habits early in life is essential to maintaining healthy teeth and preventing cavities. Regular brushing, flossing, and routine dental visits are the foundation—but additional preventive measures, such as dental sealants, can offer extra protection, especially during the cavity-prone years.
Sealants are thin, protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth (molars), where most cavities in children tend to form. These surfaces are naturally grooved and textured, making them difficult to clean thoroughly—even with good brushing habits. Sealants create a smooth barrier that helps prevent food particles and bacteria from settling into those deep crevices.
While both children and adults can benefit from sealants, they are particularly effective for children. Young teeth are more vulnerable to decay and often have deeper grooves than adult teeth, making them harder to clean and more prone to cavities. Applying sealants early—before decay has a chance to start—can significantly reduce this risk.
In fact, according to the American Dental Association, sealants can lower the risk of cavities in molars by up to 80%. The CDC also notes that children without sealants have nearly three times more cavities than those with them.
To ensure your child’s teeth stay healthy as they grow, continue with daily brushing and flossing, schedule regular dental checkups, and speak with your dentist about whether sealants are appropriate for your child. Taking preventive steps early can make a lasting difference in your child’s lifelong oral health. - How do you know if your dental problem is an emergency or can wait for a regular visit? Recognizing a true dental emergency can help you avoid unnecessary stress and get the right care when it matters most. While some dental issues may feel urgent, not all require immediate attention. Knowing the difference can save you time, discomfort, and money.
Common signs of a dental emergency include severe pain or swelling in your mouth, signs of infection, a knocked-out or dislodged tooth, a broken or chipped tooth causing discomfort, or even damage to dentures that affect your ability to eat or speak. These situations often require prompt care to prevent further complications.
If you're unsure, it's always best to contact your dentist. They can help determine whether you need immediate treatment or if it’s safe to wait for a scheduled appointment. Acting quickly in true emergencies can make all the difference in preserving your dental health. - How do I know if I might have gingivitis or periodontitis (gum disease)? Gum disease is far more common than most people realize, studies show that as many as four out of five adults may have some form of periodontal disease without even knowing it. This is because, in its early stages, gum disease often develops quietly and without pain. Unlike tooth decay, which can quickly cause discomfort, gum problems can progress slowly and subtly.
Early signs to watch for may include gums that bleed when you brush or floss, persistent bad breath, gums that appear red, swollen, or tender, and slight changes in the way your teeth fit together when you bite. However, it’s possible to have gum disease with no obvious symptoms at all.
The best way to know for sure is through regular dental check-ups and professional periodontal evaluations. Your dentist can detect early changes in your gum health, often before you notice them yourself, and guide you on the right steps to prevent further damage. - What Are the Benefits of Seeing a Dentist? Many people think of visiting the dentist only when they have a toothache or need a cavity filled, but regular dental care offers so much more than that. Dentists not only treat problems when they arise, they also help prevent them before they become painful or complicated.
Seeing a dentist means getting a full picture of your oral health. Your dentist can spot early signs of cavities, gum disease, infections, or even conditions that may affect your overall health, such as diabetes or heart disease. They can also help with concerns like jaw pain, teeth grinding, or cosmetic issues that affect your smile and confidence.
Routine dental visits also give you the tools to take better care of your teeth at home. Your dentist can recommend the right brushing and flossing techniques, talk about diet choices that impact oral health, and offer solutions like whitening or orthodontic care when appropriate.
Even if you’re not experiencing pain, regular dental checkups and cleanings help protect your teeth, gums, and overall health for years to come. Dentistry is not just about fixing problems, it’s about prevention, education, and helping you maintain a healthy, confident smile.
