Cosmetic Dentistry
Orthodontics
Dental Implants
Honolulu Family, General, Sleep, Cosmetic Dentistry - Hawaii
Family Dentistry
615 Piikoi Street, Ste 1404 A,  Honolulu, Hawaii  96814
"Best Family Dentist"
Honolulu Weekly, 2000
USC Dental School
Doctor of Dental Surgery, 1991
Hawaii Dental
House of Delegates
"Top 40 Under 40"
Pacific Business News, 2003
American Dental
Association (ADA)
Aloha Medical
Mission
Society of
Dental Hypnotherapy
Hawaii Dental
Association (HDA)
EXCEL Dental Club
Dr. Le is the absolute
best family dentist in
Hawaii. My family and I
are fortunate to have
found such a wonderful
dentist.  She is friendly,
accomodating, gentle,
and conservative. We
feel she always has our
interests at heart. We
highly recommend her
for your family as well.

Dr. Alan Cheng
Frequently Asked Questions

Office Policies

Do you accept Dental Insurance?
Yes, we accept dozens of dental insurance plans including Delta Dental, Blue Cross, Blue Shield,
Met Life, Aetna, HDS, HMSA, Signa, United Concordia, GEHA, Guardian, HMAA, and most PPO
insurance. We also have flexible financing available for qualified patients.

Do you treat Children?
No, however we often see teenagers when they are seniors in high school.  It is prudent to
complete needed dental work  before heading off to college.   Future appointments can be
scheduled when the student is home on break.

What are your payment policies?
Co-payments (the uninsured portion of your bill) are due at the time of treatment. We do offer
financing and flexible payment plans.  Deposits for lab work on crowns and other restorative items
are generally 50% at the time dental impressions are made.

What is your cancellation policy?
Like most medical offices, we require 24 hours notice for cancellations.  Cancellations within the
24 hour period are charged for.  We do not "overbook" appointments so our doctors reserve time
just for you.

What are your hours?
Hygiene appointments are available M-F 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM and last one hour.  Appointments with
dentists are generally available from M-F 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM .  We do have every other Saturday
appointments from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Please call for more details. 808-591-2115

What are your privacy policies?
We keep patient information strictly confidential, and as such comply with HIPPA guidelines.  For
your convenience we keep a printed copy of our privacy policies in our patient waiting room.
Clinical Questions

What is Digital Radiography?
Our digital Radiography system uses a laser scanner to "develop" X-Ray images.  The system
uses up to 90% less radiation than conventional X-Ray systems because it does not use
conventional film.  Images are displayed on a computer screen and stored digitally.


Do you see patients who have a fear of the dentist?
It is quite common for patients to have some apprehension, particularly if they have not been to a
dentist in a while.  There is really very little reason to be nervous.  Your dentist will fully explain
your treatment.  With short term anesthetics, your dental work should be pain free.

If I am feeling pain, is it too late for the tooth to be saved?
While the answer to this question varies with the problem, it is quite common that we can save
the tooth.  In some cases a root canal may be needed (which also saves the tooth structure).  
Some cases such as cracked teeth or impacted wisdom teeth, the tooth may have to be extracted.  
If you are feeling pain you should be examined by the dentist immediately.  Please discuss this
with our office manager so that we can schedule you as soon as possible.

Am I a candidate for a Dental Makeover?
Joanne Le & Associates performs Dental Makeovers not only to enhance your appearance but also
to improve your self-confidence.  If you are self-conscious about your smile, if you tend to cover your
mouth while talking, or if you tend to avoid having your photo taken, you may be a candidate for a
makeover.  Similarly, if you are uncomfortable about gaps between your front teeth, or if you dislike
the color of your teeth,  you should schedule a Cosmetic Consultation.  Dr. Le may discuss with
you Teeth Whitening, Bonding, Veneers, or other cosmetic procedures to fulfill your needs.

Do you have treatments for bad breath?
Yes, but it is important to properly diagnose the cause of bad breath first.  "Halitosis"  is the
technical term for bad breath. Bacteria in the mouth break down proteins which can contain sulfur
compounds.   When this sulphur is released it can smell like a rotten egg. In addition, bad breath
can be caused by decay, gum disease, poorly flossed teeth, and even one of several medical
problems.  It is important to consult with your dentist if you have persistent bad breath.

I think I am grinding my teeth at night.  Is there a treatment for this?
Teeth grinding, known as bruxism, is a common but serious condition.  Teeth grinding quite often
occurs during sleep.  It can cause teeth to be dramatically worn down, cracked, or have sensitivity.  
It can affect your ability to chew, and can even affect your appearance if not corrected.  If untreated,
bruxism can lead to crowns, root canals, bridges, implants, and even full dentures. Grinding during
sleep can often be corrected with a simple "night guard" (shown left) that protects your teeth
surfaces.  It is important to see your dentist if you are concerned about teeth grinding.

What is Scaling and Root Plaining?
Scaling and Root Planing is a common procedure that is effective in preventing gum disease.  It
is used for patients with teeth roots that exhibit mineral deposits (tartar), infection, or gums that
have pulled away from teeth. The Hygienist will clean the root surfaces smooth, removing any
deposits.  Generally your dentist will administer a local anaesthetic so that the procedure will be
painless.  Often an ultrasonic tooth cleaning device will be used so that scraping is minimized.  
Scaling a Root Planing generally takes more than one dental visit.

What is the big deal about flossing?
Flossing has many advantages for your dental health.  It should be considered equally important
to brushing your teeth.  Generally we recommend that patients floss at least once per day. Flossing
can prevent tooth decay and gum disease by cleaning areas that toothbrush bristles cannot reach.  
By keeping teeth cleaner and free of staining foods, it also keeps them whiter.  By keeping gums
and spaces between teeth free of bacteria, flossing can also prevent bad breath.  And finally,
because it helps prevent decay, flossing can keep your overall dental costs low.

How can crooked teeth be straightened?
In addition to orthodonture (braces), there are Cosmetic Dentistry procedures that may help
straighten teeth.  Invisalign provides a simple approach that involves uses a series of nearly
invisible appliances that straighten your teeth.   Dental Bonding is a simple, cost effective
procedure that can alter tooth shape with minimal tooth loss.  Dental Veneers are commonly
used on front teeth to dramatically improve appearance.  Ask your dentist for details.

Please feel free to call or send us questions using our Contact Form.