Patient Information
Frequently Asked Questions About Kvinsland Dentistry
Whether you’re a new patient considering your first visit or a longtime patient with a question about billing or home care, this page is here to help. Browse by category below or call us directly at 253-851-9171 — our team is always happy to talk through your specific situation.
New Patients & Your First Visit
How do I schedule my first appointment at Kvinsland Dentistry?
Call our office at 253-851-9171 or use the appointment request form on our website. Our team will help you find a time that fits your schedule. If you have questions before booking — about insurance, what to bring, or what to expect — call us and we’ll walk you through it.
What happens at my first visit?
New patient visits at Kvinsland Dentistry are structured differently than a typical checkup. We schedule two initial appointments of approximately one hour each. This gives your doctor and dental hygienist enough time to thoroughly review your records, assess your oral health, and discuss a plan tailored to your needs — without feeling rushed. There is no additional cost for the extra time.
What should I bring to my first appointment?
Please bring your dental insurance information (if applicable), any recent X-rays or records from your previous provider, and a list of your current medications. If you cannot obtain past records in advance, our team can take new X-rays in-office. Completing your patient forms before arriving also helps our team prepare and reduces your wait time.
Do you see patients of all ages?
Yes. Kvinsland Dentistry is a family practice serving patients from young children through seniors. We provide preventive, cosmetic, and restorative care for every stage of life, and we offer family scheduling so multiple members of your household can often be seen in a single visit.
Can I complete my patient forms before my appointment?
Yes, and we encourage it. Completing your forms in advance helps our team prepare for your visit and reduces time in the waiting room. You can download forms directly from our patient forms page. If you’re unable to complete them ahead of time, our staff will assist you when you arrive.
What if I’m nervous or anxious about visiting the dentist?
You’re not alone — and we’ve built our practice with anxious patients in mind. We offer weighted blankets, patient-paced appointments, and a team trained in working with both children and adults who feel nervous. Our goal is for every visit to feel calm and predictable. Let us know about any concerns when you call to schedule, and we’ll design your appointment around your comfort.
Insurance, Payment & Financing
Do you accept dental insurance?
Yes. We work with most dental insurance plans and submit claims on your behalf. Before treatment begins, we review your coverage with you so you understand what is and is not covered — and what your estimated out-of-pocket costs will be — with no surprises. For full details, see our financial information page.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept cash, personal checks, and all major credit cards. Payment is due at the time of service unless an alternative arrangement has been made in advance. If you have questions about costs or payment options before your appointment, our team is happy to discuss them.
Is there a discount for paying in advance?
Yes. Patients who pay the full amount for all phases of a proposed treatment plan — in cash or by check, before treatment begins — receive a 5% courtesy reduction. Treatment plan fees are valid for 90 days from the date the plan is created.
Do you offer payment plans?
Yes. We offer flexible financing through Cherry — our third-party payment partner. Cherry allows approved patients to pay in monthly installments, with options that may include promotional 0% APR plans. Applying takes about 60 seconds and does not require a hard credit check.
What is Cherry and how does it work?
Cherry is a third-party financing option available at Kvinsland Dentistry. It lets approved patients split the cost of dental treatment into manageable monthly payments — with promotional 0% APR options depending on eligibility. Visit our Cherry Payment Plans page to see example payment amounts or to apply.
How do I pay my bill online?
You can pay securely online at any time through our Weave bill pay portal: weavebillpay.com/65d3f969. If you have questions about your statement or a specific charge, call our office at 253-851-9171 and a team member will assist you.
Our Dentists & Practice
Who are the dentists at Kvinsland Dentistry?
Kvinsland Dentistry is led by Dr. Eric Kvinsland and Dr. Austin Neal. Both are trained in preventive, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry. Together they bring advanced clinical expertise and a patient-centered approach that has made Kvinsland Dentistry one of the most trusted family dental practices in Gig Harbor for generations.
How long has Kvinsland Dentistry been in Gig Harbor?
Our practice has deep roots in Gig Harbor. The original practice was opened in the late 1960s by Dr. Jon Kvinsland, and in 1976 it became the family dental practice that continues today. For nearly five decades, generations of Gig Harbor families have trusted the Kvinsland name for consistent, compassionate dental care. Read our full story →
What makes Kvinsland Dentistry different from other dental offices?
We are a multigenerational family practice with nearly fifty years of history in Gig Harbor. We prioritize long-term relationships over transactional care — taking time to understand your goals, explain your options honestly, and build a treatment plan that genuinely fits your life. We also offer weighted blankets, sensory-friendly appointments, and comfort-focused practices that go beyond what most dental offices provide.
How does Kvinsland Dentistry handle infection control and sterilization?
We follow infection control standards set by the ADA, CDC, OSHA, EPA, and local health departments. All reusable instruments and handpieces are sterilized using ultrasonic cleaning followed by autoclave sterilization — steam, heat, and pressure to eliminate bacteria and viruses. Countertops are chemically disinfected and disposable materials are used wherever possible. Learn more about our infection control practices →
Where is your office located and what are your hours?
Kvinsland Dentistry is located in Gig Harbor, Washington. Call us at 253-851-9171 to confirm current office hours or schedule an appointment. You can also request an appointment online through our website at any time.
Dental Services Offered
What dental services does Kvinsland Dentistry offer?
We offer a full spectrum of preventive, cosmetic, and restorative care — all under one roof in Gig Harbor. Our services include dental cleanings, composite fillings, crowns and veneers, dental bridges, dental implants, teeth whitening, dental sealants, family dentistry, children’s dentistry, and same-day emergency care.
Do you offer cosmetic dentistry?
Yes. Our cosmetic services include professional teeth whitening, porcelain veneers, and tooth-colored composite fillings. We also place crowns that restore the appearance and function of damaged or discolored teeth. If you’re interested in improving your smile, we’ll discuss realistic options at your consultation.
What is a composite filling and when is it needed?
A composite filling is a tooth-colored resin used to repair cavities and minor chips or fractures in a single visit. It bonds directly to the tooth structure, preserving as much of your natural tooth as possible. We only recommend fillings when they are clinically necessary — we will never over-prescribe a treatment plan.
What are dental implants and are they right for me?
Dental implants are titanium roots placed into the jawbone that serve as a permanent foundation for replacement teeth. They look, feel, and function like natural teeth and help preserve jawbone structure in ways that bridges and dentures cannot. Your doctor will evaluate whether implants are the right option for your specific situation during a consultation.
What is the difference between a crown and a veneer?
A crown covers the entire visible surface of a tooth and is used when a tooth is significantly damaged, decayed, or causing unexplained pain from hairline cracks. A veneer covers only the front surface and is primarily cosmetic — used to improve shape, color, or minor imperfections. Your doctor will recommend the appropriate option based on your dental health and goals.
What is a dental bridge and when is one recommended?
A dental bridge fills the gap left by a missing tooth by anchoring an artificial tooth to the surrounding natural teeth. Without a bridge or implant, adjacent teeth tend to shift into the empty space, causing bite misalignment and potential jaw joint discomfort. A bridge is a long-term, fixed solution that restores function and prevents further complications from tooth loss.
Do you offer professional teeth whitening?
Yes. Kvinsland Dentistry provides professional teeth whitening that is more effective and longer-lasting than over-the-counter strips. The whitening agent brightens your teeth without altering existing dental work or tooth structure. Professional whitening addresses discoloration that brushing alone cannot remove.
What are dental sealants and who should get them?
Dental sealants are a thin, clear protective coating painted onto the chewing surfaces of back teeth to seal pits and grooves against decay. They are most commonly recommended for children’s permanent molars and premolars and are one of the most cost-effective preventive investments available — protection now versus treatment later.
Children’s Dentistry
When should my child have their first dental visit?
We recommend bringing your child in once their first tooth has appeared, and no later than their first birthday. Starting early helps establish healthy habits, allows us to monitor development, and creates a foundation of trust before anxious patterns can form. Learn more about our children’s dentistry →
How do you help children who are anxious or nervous about the dentist?
We use proven comfort-focused techniques to make each visit calm and predictable: weighted blankets, patient-paced appointments, gentle introductions to tools, child-led participation when appropriate, clear step-by-step explanations, and supportive communication for both children and parents. Many children who start out nervous grow to genuinely enjoy their visits.
What dental services do you provide for children?
Our children’s services include first-tooth visits, routine cleanings, fluoride treatments, dental sealants, cavity fillings, and orthodontic monitoring as your child grows. We also support anxious and sensory-sensitive children with specialized comfort techniques.
Common Dental Problems
What causes persistent bad breath and what can be done about it?
Persistent bad breath — called halitosis — usually points to an underlying dental issue rather than food or brushing habits alone. Common causes include gum disease, dry mouth, tooth decay, bacteria buildup on the tongue, or active infection. Learn more about bad breath →
Why are my gums bleeding when I brush or floss?
Bleeding gums most commonly signal gum inflammation caused by plaque buildup along the gumline — the earliest sign of gum disease (gingivitis). Early-stage gingivitis is fully reversible with professional treatment and improved home care — don’t wait on it. Learn more about bleeding gums →
What causes tooth sensitivity and can it be treated?
Tooth sensitivity occurs when enamel wears down, exposing the softer inner dentin layer. Causes include aggressive brushing, acidic foods and drinks, teeth grinding, gum recession, or decay. We diagnose the root cause and provide targeted treatment for lasting relief. Learn more about tooth sensitivity →
What should I do if I crack or chip a tooth?
Call our office as soon as possible. Even minor cracks can worsen over time and lead to pain, infection, or tooth loss if left untreated. Treatment options range from composite bonding for small chips to a crown for more significant damage. Learn more about cracked and chipped teeth →
What is gum disease and how serious is it?
Gum disease (periodontal disease) is a progressive infection of the tissues supporting your teeth. It begins as gingivitis — fully reversible with professional care — and can advance to periodontitis, which causes bone and tooth loss. Gum disease is a leading cause of tooth loss in adults and has been linked to heart disease and diabetes. Learn more →
What are my options if I’m missing a tooth?
Missing teeth affect more than your appearance. The gap causes adjacent teeth to shift, alters your bite, and accelerates jawbone loss over time. At Kvinsland Dentistry, we offer dental implants (the most natural-feeling, permanent solution), dental bridges, and partial dentures. Your doctor will help you understand which option is most appropriate. Learn more about missing teeth →
Dental Emergencies
Do you provide same-day dental emergency care?
Yes. When a dental emergency happens, call us immediately at 253-851-9171. Our goal is to treat as much of your situation as possible the same day. Each emergency is different, but you will leave with relief and a clearly defined plan and timeline for any additional care needed.
What counts as a dental emergency?
Dental emergencies include severe or sudden tooth pain, a knocked-out or broken tooth, a lost crown or filling, a dental abscess or facial swelling, broken dentures, and significant trauma from an accident. If you’re unsure, call us at 253-851-9171 — we’ll help you assess it quickly and get you seen as soon as possible.
What should I do if I think I have a dental abscess?
A dental abscess is a bacterial infection that requires prompt professional care — it will not resolve on its own, and delaying treatment can allow the infection to spread. Signs include severe throbbing pain, visible swelling in the gum or jaw, fever, and a foul taste. Call our office immediately at 253-851-9171. Do not wait. Learn more about dental abscesses →
What should I do if my temporary crown falls off?
Don’t panic — temporary crowns are designed to be removable. If yours comes off before your follow-up appointment, gently place it back on the tooth using a small amount of Vaseline for temporary retention, then call our office to schedule re-cementation. Do not use household glue or over-the-counter dental cement.
Home Care & Aftercare
How do I care for my teeth after a filling or permanent crown?
Once the anesthetic has fully worn off, you may chew normally. Continue your regular oral hygiene routine — brush morning and evening, floss daily. It is normal to experience some sensitivity to hot, cold, and pressure after treatment. Ibuprofen or Tylenol can help. If sensitivity persists beyond a week, call us. Full aftercare instructions →
What should I do after a tooth extraction?
Bite down on a gauze pad for 30–45 minutes after your appointment to help a blood clot form. Once the clot forms, do not disturb it — avoid rinsing forcefully, using a straw, or smoking for the first 24 hours. Avoid hard or chewy foods while the site heals. Full aftercare instructions →
What toothpaste should I use?
Start with the ADA Seal of Acceptance — the most reliable quality indicator regardless of brand. Beyond the seal, match the formula to your needs: fluoride toothpaste for general cavity prevention, a sensitivity formula for sensitive teeth, or a whitening formula for surface stain management. More about toothpaste →
How often should I come in for a dental cleaning?
Most patients benefit from a professional cleaning and exam every six months. Patients with a history of gum disease, cavities, or other risk factors may need more frequent visits — your doctor or hygienist will recommend the right interval for your specific needs. Regular cleanings catch developing problems early, when treatment is simpler and less costly.