Dra. Cléo Salustiano Frequently asked questions – Dr. Cléo Salustiano
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Here we have gathered the 125 questions patients ask most often, organized by topic: appointments in Mooca and the eight treatments. The answers are the same ones found on the treatment pages, written by Dr. Cléo Salustiano (CRO-SP 170844).
This information is for educational purposes only and does not promise any result: every case is different and can only be assessed in person. If your question is not here, send a message on WhatsApp +55 (11) 97409-7834.
Choose a topic
- Appointments, hours and booking →
- Composite veneers →
- Teeth whitening →
- Braces and clear aligners →
- Dental implants →
- Root canal treatment →
- Gum health →
- Dental cleaning →
- General dentistry →
Appointments, hours and booking
Where is Dr. Cléo Salustiano's dental office?
At Rua Hipódromo, 1141 — Mooca, São Paulo/SP. The nearest subway station is Bresser-Mooca (Metro Line 3-Red), about 7 minutes away, and Mooca station (CPTM Line 10-Turquoise) also serves the area.
What are the opening hours?
Monday to Sunday, 8 a.m. – 10 p.m. Appointments only, including Saturdays and Sundays.
Do you accept dental insurance?
This is a private practice, by appointment only. If you have a dental insurance plan and want to ask about reimbursement, message us on WhatsApp at +55 (11) 97409-7834 before booking.
How do I book an assessment?
On WhatsApp at +55 (11) 97409-7834, by phone or through Doctoralia (booking page in Portuguese). The initial assessment is the starting point for planning any treatment: it is where your case is examined and the options are explained.
Do you see patients with toothache or dental emergencies?
Yes, Monday to Sunday, from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., by appointment. If you are in pain, please send a WhatsApp message so we can fit you in at the nearest available time.
Does Dr. Cléo see children?
Yes. The office sees children, with a focus on building a calm first relationship with the dentist. Regular care from an early age helps prevent problems and avoid fear of the dentist in adult life.
Who is Dr. Cléo Salustiano?
A dental surgeon registered with the São Paulo Regional Council of Dentistry (CRO-SP 170844), with a degree in Dentistry from Universidade Cidade de São Paulo (UNICID, 2020–2024) and a lato sensu postgraduate program in Prosthodontics and Restorative Dentistry at Faculdade São Leopoldo Mandic (2025–2026). She sees patients in English, Portuguese and Spanish in Mooca, São Paulo, with a focus on cosmetic and preventive dentistry, and is rated 5.0★ on Google (92 reviews).
Composite veneers
A natural, balanced smile with composite veneers. See the full page on composite veneers in Mooca.
Do composite veneers stain?
With good care and maintenance, discoloration can be kept under control. Coffee, wine and smoking speed it up. We go over everything at your assessment.
Do my teeth need to be filed down?
Reshaping is usually minimal, and in some cases none is needed. Everything is assessed individually before we start.
Can I book a composite veneer assessment online, without calling?
Yes. Use the "Book" button on this website or on Dr. Cléo Salustiano's Google profile to see open times and book your assessment yourself, any time of day or night, without calling or waiting for a reply. If you'd like to ask questions first, you can always reach us on WhatsApp.
How long do the results last?
It depends on your habits and on maintenance. Each case is assessed individually and followed up at regular check-ups.
What's the difference between veneers and "dental contact lenses"?
Both cover the front surface of the tooth. "Dental contact lenses" is the term used in Brazil for ultra-thin veneers, which usually need little or no reshaping. A veneer can be slightly thicker and is used when more correction is needed. In practice, the choice depends on your case and is made at the assessment.
Composite or porcelain veneers: which should I choose?
Composite resin is applied directly to the tooth, can be touched up and usually costs less. Porcelain veneers are made in a lab and are recommended in different situations. Dr. Cléo works with composite veneers and ultra-thin composite veneers, and she'll explain at your assessment whether this technique suits your case.
Does getting composite veneers hurt?
The procedure isn't meant to hurt: preparation is minimal and, when needed, local anesthesia is used. Most patients only mention the normal discomfort of keeping their mouth open during the session.
Are composite veneers reversible?
When they are placed with little or no reshaping, they tend to be more reversible than other techniques. Every case is different, and the amount of preparation needed is explained before we begin.
How many teeth get veneers?
It depends on the goal. Some cases involve a single tooth (to fix a chip, for example), others involve all the teeth that show when you smile. The number is planned together with you at the assessment.
Where can I get composite veneers in Mooca?
Dr. Cléo Salustiano (CRO-SP 170844) sees patients at Rua Hipódromo, 1141 – Mooca, São Paulo/SP, Monday to Sunday, 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., in Portuguese, English and Spanish. You can book on WhatsApp at +55 (11) 97409-7834 or through Doctoralia.
How many visits will I need?
There are two main steps: the assessment, which takes about 30 minutes, and the placement session, which is long and is usually done one arch at a time. After that come a follow-up visit for adjustments and regular maintenance. The exact number depends on how many teeth are involved and what needs to be done first.
Do I need to whiten my teeth first?
There's no fixed rule. The target shade is chosen together with you when your treatment is planned. In some cases whitening first makes sense; in others, it doesn't change the plan. Your exam decides.
Can I get veneers on just my front teeth?
Yes, when the correction is small and doesn't create a visible contrast with the neighboring teeth. What decides the number of teeth is your smile line and the risk of that contrast. We go over this in detail at your assessment.
What does maintenance involve, and how often?
Follow-up visits happen roughly every four months, with polishing and a check of the edges and gums. This is what keeps the shine and helps your veneers last longer.
Can I get composite veneers if I grind my teeth?
Teeth grinding (bruxism) doesn't rule them out, but it's part of the plan: a night guard is usually recommended, and we talk about it from the start. Without that protection, any cosmetic work tends to have a shorter lifespan.
Do you see patients in the evening and on weekends?
Yes. We're open Monday to Sunday, 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., always by appointment on WhatsApp, including evenings, Saturdays and Sundays.
How much do veneers cost?
The cost is presented in your treatment plan after the assessment, because it depends on the number of teeth and on what needs to be done first. At the assessment, we explain each factor that goes into the price.
Teeth whitening
Whiter teeth, safely and comfortably. See the full page on teeth whitening in Mooca.
Does teeth whitening cause sensitivity?
It can cause temporary sensitivity, which usually eases after treatment. There are ways to help control it, and we explain them at your assessment.
At-home or in-office whitening?
It depends on your routine and your case. Both techniques are professionally supervised and can even be combined. The recommendation is made at your appointment.
Is the result permanent?
No. Everyday habits have an effect, and periodic touch-ups may be recommended. Follow-up visits help plan the maintenance.
Does teeth whitening hurt?
The procedure isn't meant to hurt. Some people feel temporary sensitivity during treatment, which is managed by adjusting the protocol and using products recommended by the dentist. We talk about this at the assessment, before starting.
How many whitening sessions will I need?
It depends on your starting shade, the type of stain and how your teeth respond. The number of sessions (or how long you'll wear the trays, for at-home whitening) is set in your treatment plan at the assessment.
How long does teeth whitening last?
It varies with your habits: coffee, tea, wine and smoking bring the color back faster. With good oral hygiene and check-ups, results usually last a long time, and touch-up sessions can be planned when needed.
Can I whiten my teeth while pregnant?
As a precaution, whitening is usually postponed until after pregnancy and breastfeeding, since it's an elective cosmetic procedure. An individual assessment confirms the right time.
Do fillings and veneers whiten too?
No. Fillings, veneers and crowns don't change color with the gel. That's why the plan follows the right order: whitening first, then any adjustments or replacement of fillings to match the new shade.
Can a tooth darkened after a root canal be whitened?
In many cases, yes. There's a technique called internal whitening, done from inside the treated tooth. Whether it's right for you depends on an assessment of the case, including a recent X-ray.
What stains can't whitening fix?
Deep internal stains, such as some caused by medications (e.g., tetracycline) or by changes in how the tooth formed, may respond little to the gel. In those cases, the assessment presents alternatives such as composite veneers.
Where can I get teeth whitening in Mooca?
Dr. Cléo Salustiano (CRO-SP 170844) sees patients at Rua Hipódromo, 1141 – Mooca, São Paulo/SP, Monday to Sunday, 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., in Portuguese, English and Spanish. You can book on WhatsApp at +55 (11) 97409-7834 or through Doctoralia.
Do you see patients from São Paulo's East Zone? What's the nearest metro station?
Yes. The closest stations are Bresser-Mooca (Metro Line 3-Red) and Mooca (CPTM commuter rail, Line 10-Turquoise).
How do I book teeth whitening in Mooca?
Through WhatsApp or by calling the office. The first step is to book an assessment, which is what sets your whitening plan.
Can I book a whitening assessment online, without calling?
Yes. Use the "Book" button on this website or on Dr. Cléo Salustiano's Google profile to see open times and book your assessment yourself, any time of day or night, without calling or waiting for a reply. If you'd like to ask questions first, you can always reach us on WhatsApp.
Do I need an in-person assessment before whitening?
Yes. The exam confirms whether you can whiten now, which technique fits and what to expect for your type of stain.
Braces and clear aligners
Straightening teeth and correcting your bite. See the full page on braces and clear aligners in Mooca.
How long does treatment with braces take?
It varies with each case and how each person responds. The estimate is set at diagnosis and reviewed during follow-up visits.
Do clear aligners work for every case?
Aligners work in many situations, but not all. Whether they're right for you depends on an orthodontic assessment of your case.
Can I book an orthodontic assessment online, without calling?
Yes. Use the "Book" button on this website or on Dr. Cléo Salustiano's Google profile to see open times and book your assessment yourself, any time of day or night, without calling or waiting for a reply. If you'd like to ask questions first, you can always reach us on WhatsApp.
Will I need a retainer afterwards?
In most cases, yes. A retainer helps keep your teeth in their new position and is part of the treatment plan.
Does Dr. Cléo offer Invisalign?
Yes. Dr. Cléo Salustiano (CRO-SP 170844) works with Invisalign, one of the clear aligner brands, as well as fixed braces. The choice between options is always made at an individual assessment.
Where can I get braces in São Paulo's East Zone?
Dr. Cléo Salustiano (CRO-SP 170844) sees patients at Rua Hipódromo, 1141, in Mooca, São Paulo, in the heart of the East Zone, Monday to Sunday, 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., in Portuguese, English and Spanish. The assessment determines the type of appliance and the plan for your case.
How does orthodontic treatment work?
Gentle, steady forces move the teeth gradually into the planned position, correcting alignment and bite. It can be done with fixed braces or aligners. Treatment follows a series of stages and ends with a retainer, which maintains the result.
Braces or clear aligners: which should I choose?
It depends on your case and your routine. Fixed braces work around the clock and don't rely on discipline, but they're more visible. Aligners are discreet and easy to clean, but you have to wear them for the recommended hours. Your assessment determines the right option for you.
How long does treatment take?
Anywhere from a few months to a few years, depending on how complex the case is and how closely you follow the instructions. There's no fixed timeline. An estimate is given during planning, with no guaranteed timeframe, because every body responds differently to tooth movement.
Can adults get braces?
Yes. There's no age limit for orthodontics; what matters is the health of your teeth and gums. Many adults get treatment, and aligners are popular because they're discreet. Your assessment determines the right approach for your age and your case.
Do I need any exams before getting braces?
Usually, yes. Imaging helps plan tooth movement precisely and check the teeth, roots and bone. This is what makes treatment safe and predictable. Whether you need them is decided at your first assessment, based on your case.
Do braces hurt?
It's common to feel some discomfort or pressure in the first few days after braces are placed, or after each adjustment or new set of aligners, and it goes away. The rest of the time, treatment is usually comfortable. The dentist will show you how to ease any soreness.
Do you see patients from Brás, Belém and Tatuapé?
Yes. The office is in Mooca, easy to reach from Brás, Belém, Tatuapé and other neighborhoods in São Paulo's East Zone. We're open Monday to Sunday, 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., with booking through Doctoralia or WhatsApp.
Can I whiten my teeth or get veneers while wearing braces?
The order matters: teeth are usually aligned first, and cosmetic work (whitening, veneers) comes after, once the teeth are in their final position. With fixed braces, whitening isn't done during treatment. Your plan sets the right sequence for your case.
Does oral hygiene change with braces?
Yes, it needs more attention, especially with fixed braces: a soft or orthodontic toothbrush, floss with a floss threader, and interdental brushes. Good hygiene helps prevent white spots, cavities and gum inflammation during treatment. People with braces usually have dental cleanings more often.
Dental implants
Replacing missing teeth with a natural look. See the full page on dental implants in Mooca.
Does getting an implant hurt?
The procedure is done under local anesthesia and is usually calm. Recovery is followed closely, with instructions to keep you comfortable.
How long does implant treatment take?
It depends on healing and the number of implants. The timeline, including any temporary phases, is set during planning.
Do implants last forever?
How long they last depends on gum health, oral hygiene and habits. Regular check-ups are essential to protect the result.
Where is the office for dental implants in Mooca?
At Rua Hipódromo, 1141, Mooca, São Paulo (CEP 03164-140), open Monday to Sunday, 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Care is available in Portuguese, English and Spanish.
Do you see patients from Brás, Belém and Tatuapé?
Yes. The office is in Mooca and welcomes patients from all over São Paulo's East Zone. The closest transit stops are Bresser-Mooca station (Metro Line 3-Red) and Mooca station (CPTM commuter rail, Line 10-Turquoise).
How do I book an implant assessment in Mooca?
Through WhatsApp or by calling the office. The first step is an assessment with imaging, which sets your plan.
Can I book an implant assessment online, without calling?
Yes. Use the "Book" button on this website or on Dr. Cléo Salustiano's Google profile to see open times and book your assessment yourself, any time of day or night, without calling or waiting for a reply. If you'd like to ask questions first, you can always reach us on WhatsApp.
Do I need any exams before getting an implant?
Yes. Imaging, such as a CT scan, shows how much bone is available and guides the plan. It's the foundation of a safe implant.
How long does the whole treatment take?
Anywhere from a few months to longer, depending on whether preparation is needed and how healing goes. Timelines are estimated at your assessment.
Will I be without a tooth during treatment?
In most cases, there are temporary solutions so you don't have a visible gap. This is decided during planning, based on your situation.
I lost the tooth a long time ago. Can I still get an implant?
Often, yes, sometimes with bone preparation first. Only an assessment with imaging can show your actual condition and the right path forward.
Can older adults get implants here?
Age alone doesn't rule it out. What's assessed is your general health and the condition of your bone and gums, always individually.
How soon can I get an assessment?
It depends on the schedule, but we're open Monday to Sunday, 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., which usually makes it easy to find a time.
Is Dr. Cléo registered with the dental council?
Yes, she's registered with the São Paulo Regional Council of Dentistry under CRO-SP 170844. It's always a good idea to check a dentist's registration before any procedure.
How can I learn more about the office before deciding?
The office's hours, map and contact options are all on this website. If you have questions first, send a message on WhatsApp. We answer in Portuguese, English and Spanish.
Root canal treatment
Root canal treatment to relieve pain and save your tooth. See the full page on root canal treatment in Mooca.
Does a root canal hurt?
With local anesthesia, the procedure is usually comfortable. Most of the discomfort tends to come from the toothache that made you seek care.
How many visits does it take?
It depends on the case. The number of visits is set at your assessment, based on the tooth and how affected it is.
Do I need an endodontist for a root canal?
Root canal treatment is the field of endodontists, but it can also be done by a dentist experienced in the technique, as is the case with Dr. Cléo Salustiano (CRO-SP 170844). In more complex cases, a referral to an endodontist may be recommended, and this is always discussed openly at your assessment.
Can I be seen urgently if I'm in pain?
Opening hours are Monday to Sunday, 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., which helps fit in people who are in pain. Call or send a message explaining what's going on to check the next available time.
How do I book root canal treatment in Mooca?
By WhatsApp or by phone. The first step is an assessment, which confirms whether a root canal is needed and sets out the plan.
Can I book a root canal assessment online, without calling?
Yes. Use the "Book" button on the website or on Dr. Cléo Salustiano's Google profile to see open times and book your root canal assessment yourself, any time of day or night, with no need to call or wait for a reply. If you'd like to ask questions first, WhatsApp is always available.
Do I need an assessment before booking the root canal?
Yes. The exam, often with an X-ray, confirms the diagnosis and shows how far the problem goes before any treatment starts.
How soon can I get an appointment?
It depends on the schedule, but appointments are available Monday to Sunday, 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., which usually makes it easier to fit you in, including when you're in pain.
Can I ask questions on WhatsApp before booking?
Yes. General questions can be answered through the office contact. The diagnosis and treatment plan, however, can only be set at an in-person assessment.
Is Dr. Cléo registered with the dental council?
Yes. She practices under São Paulo Regional Council of Dentistry registration CRO-SP 170844. It's always a good idea to check a dentist's registration before any procedure, especially a root canal.
Does every painful tooth need a root canal?
Not always. Tooth pain can have other causes. Only a clinical exam, often with an X-ray, confirms whether a root canal is really needed or whether another approach will solve the problem.
Can a tooth hurt after a root canal?
You may feel some tenderness when chewing for the first few days, which usually eases. Pain that gets worse, swelling, or pain that comes back months later should be checked, because it may point to a lingering infection, a crack or a leaking filling.
Does a tooth need a crown after a root canal?
Often, yes, especially back teeth and teeth that have lost a lot of structure, because they become more fragile after a root canal. In other cases a filling is enough. It depends on how much tooth is left and how strong your bite is.
Is it better to have a root canal or pull the tooth?
When the tooth can be saved, a root canal is usually the first option, because it keeps the natural root and the bone around it. Extraction is considered when the tooth is badly broken down, has a fractured root or can't be restored, and then replacing it is planned.
Gum health
Gum care for a healthy smile. See the full page on gum health in Mooca.
Is it normal for my gums to bleed?
Frequent bleeding is usually a sign of inflammation and should be checked. The sooner it's treated, the simpler treatment tends to be.
Does a deep gum cleaning hurt?
The procedure is done with your comfort in mind and, when needed, with local anesthesia. Aftercare instructions are explained at your visit.
How often should I have my gums checked?
How often you need check-ups is individual and depends on your case and the risk factors found at your assessment.
How do I book a gum assessment in Mooca?
By WhatsApp or by phone. The visit includes a gum assessment before any treatment is decided.
Can I book a gum assessment online, without calling?
Yes. Use the "Book" button on the website or on Dr. Cléo Salustiano's Google profile to see open times and book your gum assessment yourself, any time of day or night, with no need to call or wait for a reply. If you'd like to ask questions first, WhatsApp is always available.
My gums bleed when I brush. Should I be worried?
Frequent bleeding is usually a sign of inflammation and should be checked. It's common, but it isn't normal. The sooner it's treated, the simpler treatment tends to be.
How soon can I get an appointment?
It depends on the schedule, but appointments are available Monday to Sunday, 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., which usually gives you plenty of flexibility.
Can I ask questions on WhatsApp before booking?
Yes. General questions can be answered through the office contact. The stage of gum disease, however, can only be diagnosed at an in-person assessment.
Do I need to treat my gums before veneers or teeth whitening?
Yes, if you have active gingivitis or periodontitis. Healthy gums are the foundation for any cosmetic treatment, which is why many treatment plans start with gum care.
What's the difference between gingivitis and periodontitis?
Gingivitis is inflammation of the gums only, with bleeding and redness, and it's usually reversible with a professional cleaning and good oral hygiene. Periodontitis is the stage where the inflammation reaches the bone that supports the teeth, causing loss of support, and it needs deeper treatment and ongoing follow-up.
Can receding gums grow back?
Gums that have receded don't go back to their original position on their own. Treatment controls the cause, such as inflammation, brushing too hard or teeth grinding, so the recession doesn't progress. In some cases, specific procedures can cover part of the exposed root, depending on the assessment.
Can bad breath be a gum problem?
Yes. Plaque and tartar below the gumline harbor bacteria that produce odor, and gum disease is one of the most common causes of persistent bad breath. Treating the gums and adjusting your oral hygiene often helps a lot; other causes are checked too.
Can a loose tooth be treated?
It depends on the cause and how much bone has been lost. When a tooth is loose because of gum disease, periodontal treatment can stabilize things in many cases. The earlier the assessment, the better the chances of keeping the tooth.
Is gum disease linked to diabetes?
Yes, and the link goes both ways: uncontrolled diabetes raises the risk and severity of gum disease, and gum inflammation can make blood sugar harder to control. That's why people with diabetes should have regular check-ups and let their dentist know.
Dental cleaning
Routine cleaning and prevention. See the full page on dental cleaning in Mooca.
How often should I get a dental cleaning?
The interval is individual and set at your assessment, based on your habits and gum health. There's no single number that fits everyone.
Does a cleaning whiten my teeth?
A cleaning removes surface stains and tartar, but it isn't whitening. To change the shade of your teeth, the right treatment is teeth whitening.
Does a professional cleaning hurt?
It's usually quick and comfortable. If your gums are sensitive, this is checked and handled with care.
How do I book a dental cleaning in Mooca?
By WhatsApp or by phone. The visit includes an oral health assessment before the cleaning.
Can I book a cleaning online, without calling?
Yes. Use the "Book" button on the website or on Dr. Cléo Salustiano's Google profile to see open times and book your cleaning yourself, any time of day or night, with no need to call or wait for a reply. If you'd like to ask questions first, WhatsApp is always available.
Are you open on weekends and in the evening?
Yes. Opening hours are Monday to Sunday, 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., which usually makes things easier if you work during the week.
I haven't had a cleaning in years. Can I still come in?
Yes, and getting back on track is what matters most. The assessment sets your starting point without judgment, and the next step is agreed with you.
Do I need an assessment before the cleaning?
The visit itself starts with an assessment: Dr. Cléo checks your gums, looks for cavities and sees how much tartar there is before the cleaning.
Can children have a cleaning here?
Yes, Dr. Cléo also sees children. Care and oral hygiene tips are adapted to their age.
Can I ask about whitening or veneers at the same visit?
Yes. Many patients use their cleaning visit to talk about cosmetic options. In fact, a cleaning is usually the first step before those treatments.
How long does a cleaning appointment take?
It's usually a short visit, but the time depends on how much tartar there is and what the assessment finds.
What's the difference between a regular cleaning and a deep cleaning (scaling)?
A regular cleaning (prophylaxis) removes plaque, tartar above the gumline and surface stains, and ends with polishing. Scaling is recommended when there's tartar below the gumline and periodontal pockets; it's a gum treatment, often done with local anesthesia and over more than one visit.
Does a dental cleaning weaken your teeth?
No. A professional cleaning removes tartar and plaque without meaningfully wearing down the enamel. Teeth may feel "looser" or have gaps afterward when a lot of tartar was filling those spaces; the gums usually settle down soon after.
Can I have a dental cleaning while pregnant?
Yes, and it's recommended, because pregnancy makes gum inflammation more likely. The second trimester is usually the most comfortable time for dental visits. Let the dentist know you're pregnant so positioning, X-rays and medications can be adjusted if needed.
General dentistry
Assessment, diagnosis and complete everyday care. See the full page on general dentistry in Mooca.
How often should I see the dentist?
How often you need check-ups is individual and depends on your oral health and habits; it's decided at your visit.
I haven't seen a dentist in years. What now?
A general dentistry assessment is the right place to start: no judgment, and a plan built around your pace and priorities.
Can I book an assessment online, without calling?
Yes. Use the "Book" button on the website or on Dr. Cléo Salustiano's Google profile to see open times and book an assessment yourself, any time of day or night, with no need to call or wait for a reply. If you'd like to ask questions first, WhatsApp is always available.
Can everything be done at the same visit?
Routine procedures can be done as part of general dentistry; more specific cases are planned in stages, always explained clearly.
What happens at a general dentistry visit?
The visit includes a conversation about your concerns and health history, an exam of your teeth, gums and bite, and X-rays when needed. Then the dentist explains what was found, what the priorities are, and puts together a treatment plan with the steps in order.
What treatments does general dentistry cover?
Some of the most common are fillings for cavities, replacing old fillings, cleanings and oral hygiene guidance, treatment for sensitive teeth, small repairs to chipped or broken teeth, bite adjustments and regular check-ups. When your case calls for it, the plan includes other treatments such as a root canal, gum treatment or an implant.
Can a broken tooth or a lost filling be treated in general dentistry?
Yes. These are common situations in general dentistry: the tooth is examined, the missing part is rebuilt, usually with composite resin, and the dentist checks for anything underneath, such as a cavity or a crack. If there's severe pain, swelling or the tooth is loose, you should be seen the same day.
Do I need X-rays at my first visit?
Not always, but often yes. X-rays show cavities between teeth and under fillings, the bone around the roots and the position of teeth such as wisdom teeth, which a visual exam can't show. The dentist will tell you which images you need.
Does general dentistry handle dental emergencies?
Yes. Toothache, a broken tooth, a lost filling or crown and swollen gums are seen as urgent cases, by appointment. Facial swelling with fever, or trouble swallowing or breathing, needs a hospital emergency room first.
How is the treatment plan put together?
After the exam, treatments are organized by priority: first anything causing pain or infection, then gum health and cavities, then function and, finally, cosmetic work. The plan is explained step by step, with an estimated number of visits, before anything starts.
How often should I have a dental check-up?
For most people, every six months to a year, depending on the risk of cavities and gum problems. People with veneers, implants, braces or a history of gum disease usually need more frequent check-ups. The dentist will set the right interval for you.
I'm afraid of the dentist. What is the visit like?
The visit starts with a conversation, and no procedure is required at the first appointment. Each step is explained before it happens, and you can ask for a break at any time. For anxious patients, shorter visits and a plan made at your own pace often help a lot.
Are sensitive teeth treated in general dentistry?
Yes. Sensitivity has several possible causes, such as wear, receding gums, a cavity or a crack, and a general dentistry visit is exactly where you find out which one applies to you. Treatment depends on the cause and can range from advice and desensitizing products to a filling.
Where can I find a general dentist in Mooca?
In Mooca, Dr. Cléo Salustiano (CRO-SP 170844) provides general dentistry at Rua Hipódromo, 1141, near Bresser-Mooca station (Metro Line 3-Red), Monday to Sunday, 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., by appointment via WhatsApp at (11) 97409-7834. She sees patients in Portuguese, English and Spanish. This is a private practice; Brazilian dental insurance plans (convênios) are not accepted.
Still have questions?
An in-person assessment is the only way to answer precisely about your case: how many sessions, which materials, what can be done and in what order. You can book on WhatsApp +55 (11) 97409-7834 or by phone, Monday to Sunday, from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., at Rua Hipódromo, 1141 — Mooca, São Paulo/SP. Appointments are in English, Portuguese and Spanish.