Now Accepting New Patients
Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I know when it's time to come in for a checkup?
- What precautions do you take to ensure patient safety?
- When do you like children to have a first dental visit?
- How can I make my smile brighter?
- My gums bleed after I brush. Is this something to be concerned about?
- I brush every day, but my breath just isn't fresh. Is there anything I can do?
- How can you straighten my smile without using metal braces?
- How can I improve my smile?
How do I know when it's time to come in for a checkup?
We recommend that patients with good oral health schedule a checkup and hygiene visit twice each year. If you need more frequent visits, we'll let you know. Checkups are important because, even if you don't notice any pain or problems with your teeth, we may find signs of potential issues. For instance, demineralization is a precursor to decay, oral cancer often goes undetected until the later stages, and gum disease can be very stealthy. At your hygiene appointment, we'll clean plaque, tartar, and hardened food particles from your teeth. We'll also make sure your gums are healthy and strong.
What precautions do you take to ensure patient safety?
We follow strict guidelines set by the Centers for Disease Control and OSHA. Our practices include sterilizing reusable instruments in an autoclave, then sealing them for the next use; disinfecting treatment rooms between patient visits; and using disposable products when possible. We always wear disposable gloves during exams and treatment, for your safety.
When do you like children to have a first dental visit?
We want to see children when they have teeth! Most kids respond well to a dental visit around age three, though the ADA recommends children have a first visit at one year of age. Bring your child with you to your appointment so that he or she can become acclimated to our office. If you notice any development problems with your child's mouth or teeth, call us to schedule a visit immediately. Otherwise, we'd like to begin teaching your children how to care for their teeth and gums when they reach three or four years of age. By age four or five, they can begin hygiene treatments and regular checkups.
How can I make my smile brighter?
We offer in-office Zoom! Whitening as well as custom-made trays with professional whitening gel for home use. Both methods are safe, effective and yield fantastic results!
My gums bleed after I brush. Is this something to be concerned about?
Bleeding is usually a sign of a problem. When gums bleed, it's usually from brushing too hard or early-stage gum disease, called gingivitis. We can consult with you on the proper toothbrush and pressure for safe, effective daily oral care. If your gums show signs of gum disease, we may recommend a deep hygiene treatment to alleviate your symptoms. Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss for American adults and has been linked to many overall health problems, including stroke, heart attack, and respiratory problems. Untreated, gum disease can escalate to create significant damage to your health, so call our Vienna dental office for an assessment now. We'll help you keep your teeth and gums healthy for life!
I brush every day, but my breath just isn't fresh. Is there anything I can do?
In your checkup, we'll look for the cause of your bad breath, also known as halitosis. Bad breath may be caused by tooth decay, gum disease, or a smelly substance emitted by bacteria. With modern procedures and products to promote fresh breath, we'll help you regain your confidence!
How can you straighten my smile without using metal braces?
Depending on your unique case, we may suggest porcelain veneers, Lumineers, or Invisalign clear braces. Read more about these procedures on our Services page.
How can I improve my smile?
That sounds like an easy question to answer, but it isn't! Your smile is unique, and we won't compromise your individuality with smile enhancements. Smile design dentistry done right requires an initial consultation in which we'll discuss your goals, preferences, and options for care. Generally speaking, we may suggest porcelain veneers or Lumineers, teeth whitening, all-white restorations, and/or replacement teeth. Invisalign clear braces may also be involved. After your comprehensive evaluation and consultation, we'll present a treatment plan for your new smile. We offer digital imaging and wax ups for smile previews, as well.