Question 1

What should I bring to my first appointment?

Accepted Answer

Please bring a valid ID, your dental insurance card (if applicable), a list of current medications, and any recent dental records or X-rays you have. If you have complex medical needs, bring relevant medical summaries so we can coordinate the safest care plan.

Question 2

Do you accept new patients?

Accepted Answer

Yes — new patients are always welcome. You can request an appointment online or call us at (408) 736-6856. We often have same-week openings, including for emergency visits.

Question 3

How early should I arrive?

Accepted Answer

We recommend arriving 10–15 minutes early to complete any remaining paperwork and settle in. If you have sensory sensitivities or anxiety, let us know ahead of time and we can arrange a quieter check-in process.

Question 4

Will my first visit include a cleaning?

Accepted Answer

Your first visit typically includes a comprehensive exam, X-rays if needed, and a discussion of your goals and concerns. We schedule cleanings based on your needs — sometimes same-day, sometimes at a follow-up visit tailored to your comfort level.

Question 5

What sedation options do you offer?

Accepted Answer

We provide a full spectrum of sedation: oral sedation, nitrous oxide (laughing gas), IV sedation, and general anesthesia at our ambulatory surgical center or El Camino Hospital. Dr. Paul and Dr. Amy will help you choose the gentlest option that matches your procedure and anxiety level.

Question 6

Is sedation safe for patients with complex medical conditions?

Accepted Answer

Yes. With 30+ years of experience and admitting privileges at El Camino Hospital, Dr. Paul evaluates each patient's full medical history and coordinates with physicians when needed. Our surgical center, Pacific Oral Care, is equipped for monitored anesthesia care.

Question 7

Can I drive home after sedation?

Accepted Answer

For nitrous oxide, most patients can drive home. For oral, IV, or general anesthesia, you will need a trusted adult to drive you home and ideally stay with you for the remainder of the day. We review this during your pre-visit consultation.

Question 8

Do you treat patients with severe dental phobia?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Dental phobia and anxiety are among the most common reasons patients seek us out. We take time to understand your fears, explain every step, and build a sedation plan that lets you receive care without distress.

Question 9

What types of special needs do you accommodate?

Accepted Answer

We treat patients with autism, sensory processing disorders, physical disabilities, cognitive differences, and complex medical histories. We adjust appointment pacing, lighting, sounds, and communication style to match each patient's needs.

Question 10

Do you offer quieter, low-stimulation appointments?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We can schedule longer appointment slots with reduced ambient noise, dimmed lighting on request, and a calmer room flow. Let us know your triggers when booking and we'll tailor the environment.

Question 11

Can you coordinate with my child's doctors or therapists?

Accepted Answer

We regularly coordinate care with pediatricians, specialists, and therapists. With your permission, we can share treatment plans and receive medical guidance to ensure safe, integrated care — especially for patients with multiple health considerations.

Question 12

Is Pacific Oral Care part of your practice?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Pacific Oral Care is our on-site ambulatory surgical center for cases that need a controlled environment beyond the standard dental chair. It's designed for patients who need deeper sedation or have medical complexities that make a traditional office visit challenging.

Question 13

What are your office hours?

Accepted Answer

Monday – Thursday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM. Friday: 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM. Saturday and Sunday we are closed, but emergencies are handled by phone.

Question 14

Do you offer evening or weekend appointments?

Accepted Answer

Our standard hours are Monday through Friday. If you need accommodation outside these hours due to work schedules or caregiving responsibilities, contact us — we may have flexibility for certain cases or can schedule longer appointments on Fridays.

Question 15

How do I schedule or reschedule an appointment?

Accepted Answer

You can request an appointment online through our website, call us at (408) 736-6856, or email admin@drgriffith.com. We confirm bookings by phone or email within one business day. To reschedule, simply call with at least 24 hours' notice when possible.

Question 16

What if I have a dental emergency?

Accepted Answer

Call (408) 736-6856. We reserve slots for urgent cases and aim to see emergency patients the same day or next business day. For after-hours emergencies, our voicemail will direct you to the appropriate on-call protocol.

Questions? We have answers.

Your first visit

Sedation dentistry

Special needs & complex care

Hours & scheduling

Still have questions?