Family dentistry is a dental specialty focused on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of oral health problems in children. Pediatric dentists have specific training that qualifies them to provide care for children’s teeth and gums as they change throughout childhood. We provide comprehensive care, from preventative treatment like cleanings and sealants to treatment for oral disease and injuries. We'll also counsel patients of all ages about important nutritional and hygienic habits.
Book an appointment today with your trusted Duke St dentist, offering comprehensive care for the entire family, including specialized Duke St pediatric dentistry services for your little ones!
At Blessed Smiles Dentistry, we believe that a healthy mouth sets the tone for a healthy body, which is why we emphasize the importance of regular dental check-ups and cleanings. Whether you’re looking for a dentist in Alexandria, VA, or searching for dentists in Alexandria, regular visits help remove built-up plaque and strengthen your teeth’s defense against decay, followed by a thorough oral examination. We also strive to include your input during the process, so we can address any specific concerns you may have.
Preventative care is the foundation of dentistry. The ADA recommends visiting your dentist in Alexandria, Virginia, regularly twice yearly for full cleanings, exams, and consultations for potential treatment. Professional dental cleanings help remove built-up plaque that is not removable using conventional brushing and flossing. Often, a dentist in Alexandria can identify potential problems that patients are not yet able to see or feel. When you maintain regular preventative dental appointments, you can stave off decay and gum disease, as well as identify the beginnings of oral health problems before they become severe.
A routine dental exam typically involves a thorough inspection of your teeth, gums, and mouth by a dentist or dental hygienist. They check for signs of tooth decay, gum disease, oral cancer, and other oral health issues. A dental cleaning usually follows the examination, where the dental hygienist removes plaque and tartar build-up, polishes your teeth, and may floss between your teeth.
It is generally recommended to have routine dental exams and cleanings every six months. However, if you have certain oral health conditions, your dentist in Alexandria, Virginia, may suggest more frequent visits. Regular visits allow for early detection and treatment of dental issues.
Dental exams and cleanings are generally not painful. However, if you have sensitive teeth or gums, you may experience some discomfort. Let your dental professional know if you're feeling discomfort so they can adjust their approach.
If your dentist discovers a problem such as a cavity, gum disease, or another oral health concern during your routine exam, they will discuss this with you and propose a treatment plan. If the issue requires specialized care, they may refer you to a periodontist in Alexandria, VA. Early detection of these issues is one of the reasons regular dental check-ups are so important.
One of the most important tools a dentist has are dental x-rays. These allow for the early diagnosis of potential threats to your oral health, stopping small problems before they become big conditions. Our state-of-the-art imaging technology allow us to take the highest quality photos possible, revealing the smallest traces of decay, bone loss, or problems inside or around the tooth, all to ensure you receive the most comprehensive dental treatment you need.
Dental sealants are a preventive dental treatment used primarily in children and teenagers, though they can also be beneficial for adults in certain circumstances. Dentists in Alexandria, including those at various dental practices in Alexandria, VA, often recommend sealants for their patients. These thin, plastic coatings are painted onto the chewing surfaces of the back teeth (molars and premolars) where tooth decay most often occurs. This is because these teeth have deep grooves and fissures that can be difficult to clean, even with regular brushing. The sealant quickly bonds into these depressions and grooves, forming a protective shield over the enamel of each tooth. By sealing the grooves, dentists can effectively keep out plaque and food, reducing the risk of decay. While not a substitute for good oral hygiene habits, dental sealants can provide an additional line of defense against cavities, especially for those at higher risk of tooth decay.
Dental sealants are thin, plastic coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth (molars and premolars) to prevent tooth decay. They form a protective shield over the enamel by sealing the deep grooves and fissures that can harbor plaque and food.
Dental sealants are commonly recommended for children and teenagers, as they are most prone to cavities in the grooves of the molars and premolars. However, adults without fillings or tooth decay can also benefit from dental sealants.
Yes, dental sealants are safe. They have been widely used for several decades and are recognized as an effective measure to prevent tooth decay. There is no discomfort during or after the procedure, and allergic reactions are extremely rare.
On average, dental sealants can last for many years. They endure the force of normal chewing and can protect teeth throughout the most cavity-prone years. Regular dental check-ups will ensure sealants are still in place, and if needed, they can be reapplied to maintain their effectiveness.
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703 823 8812
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