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Appointments & General
What are your clinic timings?
We’re open Monday to Saturday from 10:00 AM–1:00 PM and 4:30 PM–8:00 PM, and Tuesday from 10:00 AM–1:00 PM. Sundays are by prior appointment only.
How do I book an appointment at Dr. Rao's Dental Centre?
You can book online using the “Book Appointment” button, or call or WhatsApp us at 08884452777. Same-day slots are often available.
Where is Dr. Rao's Dental Centre located?
We’re at No. 150, 2nd Cross, opposite Siddi Vinayaka Temple, Arekere Mico Layout, off Bannerghatta Road, Bangalore 560076 — convenient for patients across Arekere, BTM Layout, JP Nagar, and South Bangalore.
Is parking available at the clinic?
Yes, we provide dedicated parking for our patients right at the clinic premises.
Who are the dentists at Dr. Rao's Dental Centre?
Founded by Dr. Rao over two decades ago, our clinic brings together a team of MDS-qualified specialists — in implantology, orthodontics, endodontics, and pediatric dentistry — each with 20+ years of experience, so you’re always treated by an expert in the right field.
Do I need a referral to book?
No referral is needed. You can book directly with us for a check-up, consultation, or any treatment.
What can I expect at my first visit?
A thorough examination, digital imaging where needed (our digital X-rays use up to 90% less radiation), a discussion of your concerns, and a clear treatment plan with an upfront estimate. We also keep wait times short so your appointment runs on time.
How often should I visit the dentist?
We recommend a check-up and professional cleaning every six months to keep your teeth and gums healthy and to catch any issues early.
General Treatments
Is a Root Canal painful?
No. With our painless treatment protocols and local anaesthesia, a root canal feels about as comfortable as a routine filling. The procedure relieves the pain you’re already in — it doesn’t add to it.
How many visits does a root canal take?
Most root canals are completed in one or two visits, depending on the tooth and the extent of infection. We’ll tell you exactly what to expect after examining you.
How often should I get my teeth professionally cleaned?
For most people, a scaling and polishing every six months keeps plaque, tartar, and gum problems under control.
How do I know if I need a filling?
Common signs include sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods, a visible hole or dark spot, or food getting trapped. A quick examination confirms whether a cavity needs a filling — the earlier it’s caught, the simpler the treatment.
My gums bleed when I brush — is that serious?
Common signs include sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods, a visible hole or dark spot, or food getting trapped. A quick examination confirms whether a cavity needs a filling — the earlier it’s caught, the simpler the treatment.
Do you treat bad breath?
Yes. Persistent bad breath usually has a treatable dental cause — plaque, gum disease, or decay. We find the cause and treat it at the source rather than just masking it.
Orthodontics (Braces & Aligners)
Am I too old for braces?
Not at all. Orthodontic treatment works at any age, as long as your teeth and gums are healthy. Many of our patients are working adults who choose discreet clear aligners.
What is the difference between metal braces and clear aligners?
Metal braces are fixed to your teeth and use wires to move them. Clear aligners (like Invisalign) are removable, nearly invisible, and taken out for eating and cleaning. The best choice depends on your case, lifestyle, and budget — our orthodontists will advise at your consultation.
How long does orthodontic treatment take?
Most treatments take 12 to 24 months, though mild cases can finish sooner. Your exact timeline depends on how much correction your teeth need.
Do braces or aligners hurt?
You may feel mild pressure or soreness for a few days after fitting or when switching to a new aligner — this is normal and settles quickly. It’s simply a sign your teeth are moving as they should.
At what age should my child first see an orthodontist?
Around age 7 is ideal for a first orthodontic check. Not every child needs early treatment, but it lets us guide jaw growth and spot issues while development is still underway.
How much do braces or Invisalign cost?
Cost depends on the type of appliance and how complex your case is. After your consultation, you’ll receive a clear, written estimate upfront — no surprises.
Dental Implants
What is a dental implant?
A dental implant is a small titanium post placed into the jawbone to replace the root of a missing tooth. A natural-looking crown is fixed on top, giving you a replacement that looks, feels, and works like a real tooth.
Am I a suitable candidate for dental implants? Is there an age limit?
Most healthy adults with adequate jawbone are good candidates, and there’s no upper age limit. Conditions like diabetes or gum disease don’t automatically rule you out — they’re simply managed as part of your plan. A consultation and 3D scan confirm your suitability.
Are dental implants painful?
The procedure is done under local anaesthesia with our painless protocols, so you won’t feel pain during placement. Mild soreness for a day or two afterwards is normal and easily managed.
How long do dental implants last?
With good oral hygiene and regular check-ups, dental implants can last for decades — often a lifetime. They’re the closest permanent replacement to a natural tooth.
How long does the implant process take?
After the implant is placed, the bone needs a few months to fuse with it before the final crown is fitted. The exact timeline varies by case, and we’ll map it out for you at the start.
Should I choose an implant, a bridge, or dentures?
Implants are the only option that replaces the tooth root, which helps preserve the jawbone and doesn’t rely on grinding down neighbouring teeth. We also offer zirconia crowns and bridges, dentures, and full-mouth rehabilitation — and will help you choose what’s right for your case and budget.
How much do dental implants cost?
It depends on the number of implants, the system used, and whether any additional preparation is needed. You’ll get a detailed, written estimate upfront after your consultation.
Cosmetics
What cosmetic dental treatments do you offer?
We offer smile design and makeovers, professional teeth whitening, porcelain and composite veneers, and tooth jewellery — each designed to enhance your smile while keeping it healthy and natural.
Should I choose teeth whitening or veneers?
Whitening is ideal for brightening stained or discoloured teeth. Veneers go further, correcting chips, gaps, uneven shape, or stubborn discolouration that whitening can’t fix. We’ll recommend the right approach after examining your teeth.
How long does professional teeth whitening last?
Results typically last several months to a couple of years, depending on your diet and habits — coffee, tea, and smoking fade it faster. Simple touch-ups keep your smile bright.
Are veneers permanent, and will I need to replace them?
Veneers involve removing a thin layer of enamel, so the process isn’t reversible. With good care, quality veneers last many years before they need replacing.
Is teeth whitening safe? Will it damage my enamel?
Professional whitening done by a dentist is safe and doesn’t harm your enamel. Any temporary sensitivity settles within a few days — which is why supervised, in-clinic whitening is far safer than unregulated home kits.
How much does a smile makeover cost?
It depends on which treatments your smile needs — from a single whitening session to a full set of veneers. We’ll design a plan and give you a clear estimate upfront.
Pediatric Care
At what age should my child have their first dental visit?
By their first birthday, or within six months of the first tooth appearing — whichever comes first. Early visits are gentle “well-baby” check-ups that build comfort and catch issues before they become painful.
Do baby teeth really matter if they're going to fall out anyway?
Yes — a lot. Baby teeth help your child chew, speak, and guide the adult teeth into position. Decay in baby teeth can cause pain, infection, and problems for the permanent teeth underneath.
How can I prevent cavities in my child?
Brush twice daily with an age-appropriate amount of fluoride toothpaste, limit sugary snacks and drinks, and keep up six-monthly check-ups. Our preventive care and cleaning give young teeth extra protection.
What are myofunctional and interceptive therapies?
These are early treatments that guide your child’s jaw growth and correct habits (like mouth breathing or thumb-sucking) before they become bigger orthodontic problems. Starting early can reduce, or even avoid, the need for braces later.
My child is anxious about the dentist — how do you handle that?
Our award-winning pediatric specialists use a calm, friendly, child-first approach to make visits feel positive, and gentle sedation options are available for anxious children when needed. Building trust early is exactly why we encourage those first visits.
Do you offer tooth-coloured fillings and crowns for children?
Yes. We use tooth-coloured fillings and bio-crowns that blend in naturally and are designed specifically for young smiles.
Laser Therapy
What laser dental treatments do you offer?
We offer laser gum cleaning, laser gum removal and reshaping, laser gum depigmentation (for dark gums), and laser bleaching — all using minimally invasive, precision technology.
Is laser gum treatment painful?
Laser treatments are minimally invasive and usually need little or no anaesthesia, with less bleeding and faster, more comfortable healing than traditional methods.
What is laser gum depigmentation?
It’s a quick, safe procedure that gently lightens dark or unevenly coloured gums, giving you a more even, healthier-looking smile.
Is laser dentistry safe?
Yes. Laser dentistry is a well-established, precise technology that targets the treatment area with minimal impact on surrounding tissue, making procedures safer and recovery quicker.
Oral Surgery & Specialist Care
Is wisdom tooth removal painful?
The procedure is done under local anaesthesia, so you won’t feel pain during the extraction. Mild soreness or swelling for a day or two afterwards is normal and easily managed.
Do I need to have my wisdom tooth removed?
Not always. Removal is usually recommended when a wisdom tooth is impacted, causing pain, crowding, infection, or difficulty cleaning. We’ll assess it with an examination and X-ray before advising.
Can you help with jaw pain or clicking (TMJ)?
Yes. We diagnose and treat TMJ/TMD disorders that cause jaw pain, clicking, or difficulty chewing, with a plan tailored to the cause.
Do you treat snoring and sleep apnea?
Yes. We offer dental treatment options for snoring and mild-to-moderate sleep apnea, and will guide you on the right approach after an assessment.
Emergency
What counts as a dental emergency?
Severe or lasting toothache, a knocked-out or broken tooth, significant swelling, bleeding that won’t stop, or a lost filling or crown causing pain all count. If you’re in doubt, call us — it’s better to check.
Do you offer same-day or emergency appointments?
Yes, we prioritise dental emergencies and aim to see you as quickly as possible. Call or WhatsApp 08884452777 straight away so we can arrange the soonest slot.
What should I do if a tooth gets knocked out?
Handle it by the crown (not the root), gently rinse it, and if possible place it back in the socket or keep it in milk. Then get to us immediately — acting within the first hour gives the best chance of saving the tooth.
What can I do for severe tooth pain until I reach the clinic?
Rinse with warm salt water, take your usual over-the-counter pain relief as directed, and apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek for swelling. Avoid placing aspirin directly on the gum, and call us to be seen.
I've chipped or cracked a tooth — what should I do?
Rinse your mouth, save any broken pieces, and use a cold compress for swelling. Book an appointment promptly so we can protect the tooth and prevent further damage or infection.
How do I reach you in a dental emergency?
Call or WhatsApp us directly at 08884452777. During clinic hours we’ll see you as fast as we can.
Costs & Insurance
How much do dental treatments cost at Dr. Rao's Dental Centre?
Costs vary by treatment and how complex each case is, so we provide every patient with a clear, written estimate upfront after examination — no hidden charges. Book a consultation for a personalised quote.
Why does the same treatment cost different amounts for different patients?
Because no two mouths are the same. The number of teeth involved, the materials used, and any additional preparation all affect the final cost. Your estimate reflects exactly what your case needs.
Do you accept dental insurance?
Yes, we accept most major dental insurance plans. Please contact our office to verify whether we accept your specific insurance provider, and we’ll help with the documentation you need.
Do you offer flexible payment options?
Yes. We offer flexible insurance and payment options to make your treatment as convenient as possible — ask our front desk for details.
Will I get a cost estimate before treatment starts?
Always. After examining you, we provide a written treatment plan and estimate so you can make an informed decision before anything begins.
What Patients Are Saying
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