Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Yes, we accept most major insurance plans and work with patients to maximize their benefits. At Garden Island Dental, we accept HDS, HMSA, HMAA, Humana, and United Healthcare, and our team is experienced in helping you understand precisely what your plan covers before any treatment begins.

Making Dental Care Affordable in Kauai

We understand that dental insurance can be confusing, and nobody likes surprises when it comes to costs. That's why Dr. Godla is committed to providing honest and transparent treatment plans, along with our best estimate of what your out-of-pocket costs will be.

Insurance and Payment Options

• HDS, HMSA, HMAA insurance plans
• Humana and UnitedHealthcare
• CareCredit financing with flexible payment terms
• Health Savings Account (HSA) payments
• Cash payments with upfront pricing

Planning Treatment for Your Budget

The best dental treatment plan is the one you can afford to complete. Dr. Godla works with patients to prioritize treatments and, when appropriate, stage care over time to make it more budget-friendly.

Our front desk team will verify your benefits before your appointment and explain your coverage in plain English—no insurance jargon or hidden fees.

Ready to discuss your treatment options and insurance benefits? Dr. Chris Godla welcomes patients from Lihue, Kapaa, Koloa, Kalaheo, Princeville, and Waimea. Call us today to verify your coverage and schedule your appointment!

Garden Island Dental is conveniently located in the heart of Līhuʻe, making it easy for patients across Kauaʻi to find us. Our dental office sits right across from the Kauaʻi Museum and the Līhuʻe Civic Center, two of the most familiar landmarks in town.

If you’re headed our way from Kaumualii Highway, you’ll find us just a quick turn off the main road. We’re also located down the road from Līhuʻe County Park, so whether you’re coming from work, school, or errands, our dental office is simple to reach.

As your trusted local dentist in Līhuʻe, we’re proud to serve patients not only in the immediate neighborhood but across the island of Kauaʻi. Our central location makes it easy for families, professionals, and visitors to receive quality dental care close to home.

Call Our Dental Clinic in Lihue 

If you need help finding our dental office, please don’t hesitate to give us a call. Our friendly team will be happy to guide you!

We want every visit to start stress-free, beginning with getting here. When you’re looking for a dentist or dental clinic in Līhuʻe, think of Garden Island Dental as your convenient, community-focused dental home.

We can't wait to welcome your ohana to Garden Island Dental!

Most patients are pleasantly surprised to find that bone grafting is much more comfortable than they expected. Dr. Godla uses advanced techniques and effective anesthesia to ensure you feel minimal discomfort during the procedure. Any post-operative soreness is typically manageable with over-the-counter pain medication.

What to Expect with Bone Grafting in Lihue

For most people, the anticipation is worse than the actual experience. During the procedure, you'll be completely numb and comfortable. Most people describe feeling pressure rather than pain, similar to having a tooth filled.

During the Procedure

• Complete numbness with local anesthesia
• Minimal discomfort—mainly just pressure sensations
• Reduced tissue trauma with Dr. Godla's gentle technique
• An efficient procedure, typically completed in under an hour

After Your Bone Graft

• Expect some swelling and mild soreness for 2–3 days
• Easily manage discomfort with ibuprofen
• Use ice packs to help reduce swelling
• Eat soft foods for the first few days while you heal

Setting Realistic Expectations

Everyone's different, but most people return to work the next day and feel back to normal in a week or less. Dr. Godla believes in setting honest expectations upfront, so you know exactly what to expect.

Ready to discuss your bone grafting options in a comfortable, no-pressure consultation? Dr. Chris Godla welcomes patients from Lihue, Kapaa, Koloa, Kalaheo, Princeville, and Waimea. Call today to learn more!

Gum or periodontal disease is a bacterial infection that attacks the gums and supporting bone and tissue. The disease is highly prevalent, but the symptoms can be so mild that many people don’t realize they have it. That is why routine cleanings with a hygienist are crucial for detecting the disease early and taking action to prevent it from progressing.

Stages of Gum Disease

• Gingivitis — During the early stage of gum disease called gingivitis, you may notice symptoms like inflamed gums or bleeding when you brush and floss. At this stage, the condition is completely reversible with a thorough professional teeth cleaning and improved at-home hygiene.
• Mild to Moderate Periodontitis — Without gingivitis treatment, bacteria begin destroying the tissues and bone supporting your teeth. Treatment involves deep cleaning procedures called scaling and root planing to remove bacteria and toxins.
• Advanced Periodontitis — Significant bone and tissue loss occurs, potentially leading to tooth loss. Treatment may require surgical intervention to restore health and function.

It’s essential to note that, while gingivitis is reversible, periodontitis is not and will require ongoing maintenance to control; this provides even more motivation to stick to those routine cleanings.

Schedule a Teeth Cleaning in Lihue, HI

Today is the perfect day to schedule your next dental cleaning at Garden Island Dental. If we identify a problem, we can initiate treatment to prevent it from progressing and maintain your mouth's health and well-being.

Cavities don't always announce themselves with obvious symptoms, especially in their early stages. However, several warning signs may indicate that tooth decay is developing.

Common Cavity Symptoms

Here are some common signs to look for:

• Tooth sensitivity or pain when eating sweet, hot, or cold foods
• Sharp, shooting pain that lingers after eating or drinking
• Dull, constant ache that may indicate deeper decay
• White, brown, or black spots are visible on teeth
• Small holes or pits you can see or feel with your tongue
• Rough or jagged edges where enamel has broken down
• Persistent bad breath that doesn't improve with brushing

When Symptoms Aren't Present

Here's the concerning reality: Many cavities develop without causing noticeable symptoms until they're quite advanced. Early-stage decay often occurs between teeth or in areas that are not easily visible, making regular dental checkups essential for early detection.

Dr. Godla uses digital x-rays and visual examination to identify cavities before they cause pain or visible damage. This early detection allows for smaller, more conservative fillings that preserve more of your natural tooth structure.

Have a Cavity? We Can Help You in Lihue!

If you notice any of these signs of a cavity, don't wait for the problem to worsen. Call Garden Island Dental at (808) 245-3582 to schedule an examination so we can provide prompt treatment.

We serve patients throughout Lihue, Kapaa, Koloa, Kalaheo, Princeville, and Waimea with comprehensive dental care that catches problems early, when treatment is most straightforward and effective.

Tooth yellowing is a natural part of aging caused by the thinning of tooth enamel and years of exposure to staining substances. As we get older, the outer white enamel layer gradually wears away, revealing the naturally yellow dentin underneath, while decades of coffee, tea, and other lifestyle factors leave their mark.

Why Tooth Shade Changes as We Age 

Here's what's actually happening inside your mouth:

Natural Aging Factors:

• Enamel naturally thins with age, showing more yellow dentin
• Years of chewing wear down the tooth’s protective outer layer
• Microscopic holes and cracks develop that trap stains more easily

Lifestyle Contributors

• Coffee, tea, and red wine create deep, stubborn stains
• Tobacco use accelerates yellowing significantly
• Certain medications can cause tooth discoloration
• Poor oral hygiene allows plaque and tartar buildup

Treatments to Restore Your Bright Smile

The good news is that we can help restore your smile's brightness! At Garden Island Dental, we offer a range of approaches tailored to your specific needs—from professional whitening to porcelain veneers or crowns for more dramatic transformations.

Our cosmetic dentist, Dr. Chris Godla, will provide you with an honest assessment of the cause of your discoloration and recommend the most effective treatment tailored to your goals and budget.

Call Our Lihue Clinic to See How We Can Help

Ready to brighten your smile? We gladly serve patients from Lihue, Kapaa, Koloa, Kalaheo, Princeville, and Waimea. Call (808) 245-3582 today to discuss your treatment options!

Replacing missing teeth is essential for maintaining long-term oral and overall health. The consequences of leaving gaps are more than aesthetic and can affect many aspects of your well-being.

Oral Health Consequences

• Leads to Bone Loss — Jawbone tissue requires pressure from chewing to maintain its density and structure. When you lose teeth, the surrounding bone begins to deteriorate due to a lack of stimulation, creating a sunken or aged facial appearance over time.
• Puts Remaining Teeth at Risk — Bone loss weakens the foundation for remaining teeth, making them more vulnerable to shifting, loosening, and eventual loss.
• Causes Bite Problems — Adjacent teeth may drift into the empty space and create alignment issues that can lead to jaw pain and difficulty chewing.

Nutritional and Digestive Impact

• Difficulty Chewing — Missing teeth significantly impact your ability to chew properly, forcing your digestive system to work harder and potentially leading to gastrointestinal issues.
• Dietary Restrictions — The inability to comfortably eat nutritious foods, such as fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts, and lean proteins, can impact your overall wellness and quality of life.

Quality of Life Effects

• Social Confidence — With missing teeth, you may avoid social situations, cover your mouth when speaking or laughing, or feel self-conscious about your appearance.
• Professional Impact — Having missing teeth may limit job opportunities and make you feel awkward in professional interactions.

Reach Out to Our Lihue Dental Clinic

If you're considering tooth replacement options in Lihue, Kapaa, Koloa, Kalaheo, Princeville, or Waimea, call Garden Island Dental at (808) 245-3582 to discuss the best solution for your needs.

The best way to prevent dental emergencies is through consistent preventive care and smart daily habits. While we can't eliminate every possible emergency, regular cleanings and exams at Garden Island Dental help us catch potential problems before they become painful, urgent situations.

Smart Preventive Dentistry Strategies 

Most dental emergencies don't just happen overnight. They're usually the result of minor issues that were ignored until they became big problems. Here are the steps you can take to avoid many emergency situations:

Daily Protection Habits

• Brush twice daily and floss regularly (yes, flossing really matters)
• Don't use your teeth as tools—no opening packages or cracking nuts
• Wear a mouthguard during sports activities
• Avoid chewing ice, hard candies, and popcorn kernels

Regular Professional Care

• Schedule cleanings every six months without fail
• Address small cavities when they’re small and easy to treat
• Replace old fillings before they crack or fall out

At Garden Island Dental, we find that patients who stay on top of their routine care rarely call with weekend emergencies. It's not just luck—it's the result of catching problems early when they're still manageable and affordable.

Help for Your Dental Emergency on Kauai 

We understand that sometimes dental care isn't a priority for everyone, and that's why we never judge. If you need an emergency dentist in Lihue, we treat all our patients with the same dignity and respect and won't lecture you about past habits.

Call us now at (808) 245-3582 to schedule an appointment and let us help you!

Getting veneers at Garden Island Dental is a straightforward process that typically requires two appointments spaced several weeks apart. During these appointments, Dr. Godla performs the following steps:

• Initial consultation — We evaluate your oral health, discuss your goals, and determine if veneers are the ideal solution for your needs.
• Tooth Preparation — We remove a thin layer of enamel to make room for the veneers to fit properly. Our digital impressions eliminate the traditional messy process and allow for more natural-looking, better-fitting results. At this appointment, we also place temporaries on your teeth to protect them while your final veneers are fabricated.
• Laboratory Crafting — Your impressions go to a custom dental lab, where skilled technicians create your custom veneers using only the highest-quality porcelain materials available.
• Final Placement — We securely bond the new veneers to your teeth, making final adjustments to ensure a perfect fit, comfort, and flawless aesthetics.

Ready to Get Started with Veneers in Lihue?

To determine if veneers are a suitable option for you, please call Garden Island Dental at (808) 245-3582 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Godla. He will be happy to evaluate your needs and see if you’re a good candidate for this procedure.

We proudly serve patients in Lihue, Kapa'a, Koloa, Kalaheo, Princeville, and Waimea.

CEREC same-day crowns last 10–15 years or more with proper care, which is comparable to traditional lab-made crowns. The high-quality ceramic material used in CEREC technology is incredibly durable and, when combined with Dr. Godla's precise digital techniques, creates restorations that can serve you well for decades.

Why Are Same-Day Crowns So Durable?

The beauty of CEREC technology is its precision. Unlike traditional crowns that rely on physical impressions and multiple steps, our digital process creates an exact fit using 3-D imaging and computer-guided milling. This precision means better margins, stronger bonds, and ultimately longer-lasting restorations.

Factors That Influence Crown Longevity

• Quality of the initial fit and bonding process
• Daily oral hygiene habits
• Frequency of regular dental checkups and cleanings
• Habits like teeth grinding or chewing ice
• The crowned tooth's location and function

Advantages of CEREC's Digital Process

• Perfect color matching to your natural teeth
• Superior marginal fit reduces the risk of decay
• Strong ceramic material resists wear and staining
• Same-day process eliminates temporary crown risks

Protecting Your Same-Day Crown

Most patients find that their CEREC crowns feel and function like their natural teeth. With consistent brushing, flossing, and regular dental checkups at our Lihue, HI, dental office, your new crown should last long into the future. 

Learn More About CEREC Crowns in Lihue

Call Garden Island today at (808) 245-3582 to schedule a convenient appointment. Dr. Chris Godla serves patients from Lihue, Kapaa, Koloa, Kalaheo, Princeville, and Waimea.

Absolutely not—it's never too late to achieve the smile you've always wanted. At Garden Island Dental, we regularly help patients in their 50s, 60s, 70s, and beyond straighten their teeth with SureSmile® clear aligners, proving that age is just a number when it comes to dental improvements.

Opting for Clear Aligners Later in Life

Many of our patients tell us they wish they'd gotten treatment sooner, but life gets busy. Careers, kids, responsibilities—and suddenly you realize you've been covering your smile in photos for years. 

Clear aligners offer several advantages for mature patients:

• Discreet treatment — No one needs to know you're straightening your teeth
• Comfortable process — Gentler than traditional braces
• Removable convenience — Take them out for important meetings or dinners
• Predictable results — Our intraoral scanner shows you exactly what to expect

Take the First Step to a Straighter Smile in Lihue

Many patients tell us that straightening their teeth as adults was one of the best decisions they've made. It's not just about looks, either. You’ll discover the pleasure of smiling proudly with the added benefit of easier oral hygiene and improved overall oral health.

Ready to see what SureSmile clear aligners can do for you? Call Garden Island Dental at (808) 245-3582 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Godla. We happily welcome patients from Lihue, Kapaa, Koloa, Kalaheo, Princeville, and Waimea.