General Dentistry Frequently Asked Questions Answered
Our Manassas, VA Dentist Provides Peace of Mind for Patients
Dr. Nadder Hassan and the rest of our friendly staff at Manassas Smiles are dedicated to developing a lasting relationship with our patients. Because we understand many people feel anxiety about visiting our family dentist in Manassas, VA, we’re here to answer any questions and alleviate any concerns that we can prior to your appointment. Below, you’ll find answers to frequently asked questions we receive at our dental clinic. If you find yourself with a question not on this list, we urge you to reach out to us!
How Often Should I Visit My Dentist for Check-Ups?
There is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to dental check-ups. General guidelines indicate you should visit your family dentist for a check-up and dental cleaning at least every six months. However, some patients may need to visit us more often than that, especially those with chronic gum disease or cavities. Visiting us every six months ensures we remain proactive about your dental care and the fight against tooth decay and loss. Getting your teeth professionally cleaned in-office is vital to removing tartar and plaque build-up in those hard-to-reach areas inside your mouth. It’s also essential to maintain healthy habits at home. Don’t forget to brush and floss daily in between your dental check-ups!
Is There Anything I Should Do to Prepare for a First Visit?
A first visit to our dentist office in Manassas, VA usually involves a dental exam and cleaning, digital X-rays, periodontal, tooth decay, and oral cancer screenings, and a one-on-one consultation with our dentist. To make your experience as hassle-free as possible, you’ll find our patient forms and information about payments and accepted insurance listed under our patient resources section. We encourage you to fill out your forms before coming in to make your first visit as smooth as possible.
Do You Recommend Manual or Electric Toothbrushes?
There have been numerous industry studies and comparisons done on the merits of manual and electric toothbrushes. Both can be equally effective when you use them properly. If you remember to brush and floss daily, it doesn’t matter which form of toothbrush you’re most comfortable using.
I’d Like to Whiten My Teeth. What Do You Recommend?
While you could rush out to your nearest grocery or pharmacy and buy all the over-the-counter teeth whitening kits and toothpastes, we recommend professional teeth whitening in our office for the best results. We provide both in-office and take-home cosmetic teeth whitening treatments to help you whiten your teeth safely and effectively. You could see your smile improve up to eight shades with just one appointment!
What Types of Toothpaste Does Your Dentist Office Suggest?
Our dentist office recommends you choose a toothpaste containing fluoride because it helps protect your teeth from cavities. If you have additional concerns about cavities, gum disease, or teeth whitening, be sure to talk to our dentist for further recommendations based on your needs!
Do You Have Any Prevention Tips for Cavities or Gum Disease?
Visiting the dentist for regular cleanings and check-ups should help keep cavities and gum disease at bay, as well as practicing good oral hygiene at home. If you do find yourself with gum disease, our office performs periodontal therapy to treat damaged gum tissue before it leads to tooth loss in many cases. If you get a cavity, Manassas Smiles offers both traditional amalgam and resin dental fillings, as well as dental inlays and onlays, to restore your affected tooth in no time.
How Safe Are Dental X-Rays? How Often Do I Need Them?
The digital X-rays used in our dental clinic are safe with minimal radiation exposure to our patients. Digital X-rays allow us to take high-resolution images that we can keep in your file. How often you’ll need dental X-rays depends on your medical history, but most patients only need them once a year.
When Should I Bring My Child for Their First Dental Visit?
Your child should come see us when their first tooth appears or around their first birthday, whichever comes first. Our practice provides pediatric dentistry to make it convenient for your entire family to have the same dentist. Bringing children to the dentist from an early age encourages healthy habits for life and helps to reduce anxieties about visiting the dentist in general.
What Are Mouth Guards? Why Would My Kids or I Need One?
Mouth guards help protect your teeth if you play sports or if you suffer from bruxism, which is a condition in which a patient grinds or clenches their teeth at night. Once you have your permanent teeth, they do not grow back. Tooth damage and loss can often be prevented with mouth guards.
I’m Nervous About My Procedure. Do You Offer Sedation Dentistry?
Manassas Smiles does offer sedation dentistry to make our patients in Manassas, VA more comfortable during specific procedures. Our staff is trained to offer both oral conscious sedation and IV sedation. Please contact us with any additional dental concerns, and we’ll do our best to alleviate your fears!