Frequently
Asked Questions

How to tell if you’re having a dental emergency: If you are experiencing any swelling, excessive bleeding, loss of a filling, a broken tooth, or intense pain—we would classify your symptoms as a dental emergency. If you experience any of these symptoms call the office.

If you do not have any of the symptoms of a dental emergency, the best solution is to call the office and leave a message. We will get back to you as soon as we can during business hours in order to address your concerns. However, if you are a patient of record and experiencing a dental emergency, call the after hours number provided by our answering machine.

We are currently not accepting any new patients. Due to the effects of COVID-19 and the recent retirement of Dr. Lawrence Johanson, our schedule is extremely impacted and we are unable to accept any new patients at this time.

Each insurance plan is different. If you’re wondering about what your plan specifically covers, contacting your insurance provider directly through their customer support line or visiting their website will provide you with the best information.

If you are experiencing discomfort that does not classify as a dental emergency and you need pain relief, you can take two Advil and two Tylenol every 4-6 hours if you are able.

Do not rinse your mouth the day of the extraction. You may gently rinse your mouth every three hours the day prior to your extraction with a gentle saline solution (1 tsp of salt dissolved in a glass of warm water). Some swelling may be experienced post-extraction. Do not be alarmed by this reaction, simply apply an ice pack to the affected area for 10-15 minutes. Repeat until swelling is relieved. Avoid touching the extraction area in order to allow your body to heal. Refrain from smoking, using a straw, or vigorous rinsing to avoid a dry socket or infection. Soft foods are desirable for the first day or two after an extraction. Avoid extremely hot, cold, or spicy foods or liquids. Avoid getting particles of food lodged in the empty space where your extraction took place. If you do get food in the extraction area, you can gently rinse and swish the day after your extraction with the saline solution mentioned above. You can brush and floss your teeth as normal, just take care around the affected area. Some bleeding is normal after any extraction. If you are still bleeding after the extraction, bite on the provided gaze pads for 15 minutes, repeat if necessary. Some discomfort may be experienced after your extraction. For moderate pain, you can take non-aspirin over the counter pain medication such as Advil, Aleve, or Tylenol. Please call the office promptly in the case of severe pain, excessive bleeding, or any unusual developments.

If we are unable to see you immediately, you can find temporary cement material sold over the counter in most drug stores.

Our office is open Monday through Thursday. Our earliest hygiene appointment is 8:10 a.m., and our latest hygiene appointment is 3:30 p.m. The doctor’s earliest appointment is 9 a.m., and his latest appointment is 3 p.m.

You can mail your payment to: S. Shaun Johanson D.D.S. P.O. 2368 McKinleyville, CA 95519 Or you have the option to drop off your payment in our drop box at our physical location, 1661 Pickett Rd. McKinleyville, CA 95519 We also accept credit card payments over the phone during business hours.

Flossing after every meal is ideal, but at minimum flossing once every day will help keep your oral health on track.

Ideally, you should brush your teeth after every meal in order to maintain good oral hygiene.