New Patients: (703) 997-1928
Current Patients: (703) 490-5888
Woodbridge, VA
New Patients: (703) 997-1928
Current Patients: (703) 490-5888
BOOK AN APPOINTMENT

New Patients: (703) 997-1928
Current Patients: (703) 490-5888
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What’s The Fastest Way to Get Whiter Teeth? 

Cosmetic Dentistry, Oral Health

Nearly everyone strives to have a white smile. In fact, according to research published in the National Library of Medicine, 80% of Americans between the ages 18 and 49 wish that they had whiter teeth. While there are plenty of different ways to whiten teeth, not all of them show results in the same amount of time. So what do you do when you want to get a whiter smile fast? You turn to your dentist in Woodbridge. 

Smile Whitening in Woodbridge

If you’re looking to whiten your teeth quickly, turn to your dentist. Professional smile whitening treatments can brighten teeth several shades in as little as an hour. This procedure is done in the comfort of a dental office and is monitored by a member of the dental team to make sure each tooth is treated and the results are working as expected. Additionally, professional whitening can help keep whitening solution off of the gums and eliminate the chance of a reaction and steps can be taken to reduce unwanted side effects such as tooth sensitivity. 

Whitening Strips

While whitening strips are cheaper than professional in-office whitening treatments, they do take time to work, and some products are better than others. Whitening strips, and even most over-the-counter whitening trays, can start to show changes in 3-4 days but can take up to 12 days for them to show their final result. 

Gel & UV Lights

A fairly new product to hit the smile whitening market is a combination product consisting of a whitening gel solution which is activated by a UV light. This tooth whitening treatment is pretty comparable to whitening strips or trays in terms of cost and effectiveness. Teeth should start to brighten in about 10-14 days if used as directed. 

Remember, it’s important to follow all directions when using any type of smile whitening product to reduce the risk of side effects such as tooth sensitivity. 

Cosmetic Dentistry

Not all types of tooth staining can be removed through smile whitening. It’s important to talk with your dentist in Woodbridge prior to starting any whitening treatments to make sure your teeth are healthy enough and that the product you choose will work. If you find out that your tooth discoloration can’t be transformed by whitening products, cosmetic dentistry can help. One of the most common forms of cosmetic dentistry used to whiten teeth are dental veneers which can essentially cover up any imperfections you don’t like, including color. 

Everyone deserves to have a smile they’re proud of. So if you’re considering whitening your teeth, schedule a visit with your dentist today to begin your journey to a brighter, whiter smile.  

Transform Your Smile With These 5 Cosmetic Dentistry Options

Cosmetic Dentistry, Oral Health

Cosmetic 1Do you hide your smile in pictures? Cover your mouth when you laugh? Avoid showing your teeth whenever or however you can? You’re not alone. More than 50% of Americans are insecure about their smile. But it doesn’t have to stay that way. Getting a smile that you love is possible with cosmetic dentistry from your dentist in Woodbridge. 

  • Dental Bonding

One of the fastest, and most popular, ways to improve your smile is through dental bonding. Cosmetic bonding can be done in as little as 30 to 60 minutes and can cover up small chips or cracks that may be keeping you from smiling. Your dentist in Woodbridge will use a resin to reshape the size, shape, and even color of a tooth to create a natural and full smile.  

  • Whitening

Another quick and affordable way to transform a smile is through teeth whitening. This treatment can brighten the shade of teeth from anywhere from two to nine shades whiter. But not all teeth bleaching products are the same. While you can buy whitening strips or trays on your own, we always recommend that you talk with your dentist before you decide. Not all stains can be removed through whitening treatments, so it’s important to share your concerns with your dentist before you invest in any product.

  • Porcelain Veneers

Teeth that can’t be whitened through bleaching may benefit from porcelain veneers. This treatment does require your dentist to remove a small layer of your natural tooth, but the procedure is usually pain-free. Porcelain veneers are thin slices of porcelain that are custom-designed to blend into your natural teeth so nobody needs to know you’ve had the treatment. Not only can veneers cover up stains, but they can also cover chips and misaligned teeth. 

  • Dental Crowns

Often referred to as caps, dental crowns toe the line between cosmetic dentistry and restorative dentistry, depending on what they’re used for. In the case of cosmetic purposes, crowns can change the appearance of individual teeth, including size or shape. Crowns are also custom-made so they’re unnoticeable in the smile. 

  • Dental Implants

Another form of cosmetic dentistry that may be offered by your dentist in Woodbridge and that can also be referred to as restorative dentistry is a dental implant. Dental implants are used as a permanent solution to missing teeth and will replace both the tooth’s root and the visual crown. This type of treatment is the most invasive of the options listed, but those who have the treatment say the process was worth it as it restored their smile. Whether you’ve lost a tooth due to decay or an accident, dental implants can help complete your smile. 

Nobody should live with a smile that they feel like they have to hide. If you find yourself shying away from smiling, we want to help. Call your dentist in Woodbridge today to schedule a cosmetic dentistry consultation. 

Can You Have Too Many Teeth? 

Cosmetic Dentistry, Oral Health, oral hygiene

Most people have 20 baby teeth, and 32 permanent adult teeth. However, a condition called hyperdontia can cause too many teeth to grow inside the mouth. This is usually more common in kids but can also occur into adulthood. Hyperdontia can be treated by your dentist in Woodbridge, but sometimes no treatment is needed. 

Signs of Hyperdontia

The obvious sign of hyperdontia is seeing or feeling extra teeth erupt behind your already established teeth. If extra teeth have already erupted, then it’s pretty easy to diagnose. Your dentist in Woodbridge may also be able to see additional teeth that haven’t yet shown themselves in dental x-rays images. While the condition isn’t typically painful, it can put a bit of pressure on the jaw and gums. Hyperdontia can also cause overcrowding and make teeth appear crooked.

Types of Additional Teeth

Additional teeth can vary in shape and can erupt in various places in your mouth.

Shapes

  • Supplemental – an extra tooth that is similarly shaped to the neighboring tooth
  • Tuberculate – a tube-like shape
  • Compound odontoma – looks like the tooth is made from several growths
  • Complex odontoma – a growth of tooth-like tissue
  • Conical – wide at the bottom and narrows out the top

Locations

  • Paramolar – occurs in the back of the mouth by the molars
  • Distomolar – grows in line with the molars rather than behind them 
  • Mesiodens – appears behind front flat teeth (incisors) and is the most common

What Causes Extra Teeth to Develop? 

There is no known cause of hyperdontia, but there have been links between extra teeth and a few inherited conditions, such as: 

  • Cleft palate or lip
  • Gardner’s syndrome
  • Ehler-Danlos syndrome 
  • Fabry disease
  • Cleidocranial dysplasia

Make sure to talk with your dentist in Woodbridge about all your health conditions as well as your family medical history so they can cater your dental care to your specific needs. 

Treating Hyperdontia

Typical treatment for hyperdontia involves removing the extra teeth. If your dentist does recommend treating hyperdontia, it’s for a good reason. Some things that may require extra teeth to be removed include: 

  • Difficulty chewing
  • Pain
  • Cuts in your mouth
  • Inability to brush and floss your teeth
  • Feeling self-conscious 

Extra teeth can seem like a real burden, but oftentimes they don’t cause any issues. However, if you have extra teeth and you don’t like the way your smile looks, talk with your dentist in Woodbridge about the best way to treat your extra teeth and perhaps discuss some forms of cosmetic dentistry. 

Obtain a picture perfect smile with cosmetic dentistry

Cosmetic Dentistry

shutterstock 581282791What makes a smile perfect? For many patients, it’s a smile with bright, white teeth that are perfectly aligned and presentable. This can make a smile “picture perfect,” ready for photographs! However, not everyone is lucky enough to have a naturally beautiful smile, and this is where cosmetic dentistry can help! Dr. Joseph Cavallo and his team in Woodbridge, VA work directly with patients to help them identify areas of the smile that need improvement and create a customized cosmetic dentistry plan to help them achieve it! 

How is a perfect smile achieved? 

There are various procedures that fall under the category of cosmetic dentistry, or “aesthetic dentistry.” Below are just a few of the cosmetic treatments that our dentist may incorporate into a patient’s dental plan to achieve that picture perfect smile: 

  • Porcelain veneers – covering specific imperfections near the front of the smile is easy with porcelain veneers, which are made of ceramic materials and bonded onto the anterior teeth to change their appearance.
  • Professional teeth whitening – Dr. Joseph Cavallo is excited to offer professional teeth whitening services to brighten the smile, lightening natural tooth enamel with take-home whitening products only available from dental providers.
  • Dentures – patients missing one or more teeth will want to work with a provider to restore their smile’s appearance and functionality. Partial and full dentures are both readily available with Dr. Joseph Cavallo and his team, and are an economical solution for adult patients.
  • Dental bridges – dental bridges also replace missing teeth, including several in a row. This restoration is custom-fabricated to bond onto the top of the adjacent teeth to support it in place. The bridge is made from porcelain, which mimics the appearance of natural tooth enamel and provides aesthetic restoration.

Call Dr. Joseph Cavallo of Woodbridge, VA today 

Obtain your picture perfect smile today with the help of Dr. Joseph Cavallo! Call (703) 490-5888 to request a consultation visit at 12502-A Lake Ridge Drive and speak to a professional about the options available for cosmetic enhancement of the smile. Dr. Joseph Cavallo accepts new patients in his practice, providing general, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry to those in and around his community.  

Crowns vs. Veneers

Cosmetic Dentistry

iStock 535401869Both dental veneers and dental crowns are commonly used in dentistry. They are restorations that are made from porcelain to repair the smile. However, while there are a few similarities between the two, this is where they stop. Many patients are confused about which one is best for their needs. Dr. Joseph Cavallo and his team in Woodbridge, VA work with patients to help them fully understand the difference. 

What are the similarities between dental crowns and dental veneers? 

Both crown and veneers: 

  • Are made from materials such as porcelain
  • Are fabricated to mimic the appearance of the existing teeth for seamless integration
  • Are extremely thin and bond onto the tooth
  • Use the same type of dental adhesive
  • Have similar preparations including the removal of natural tooth enamel

What are the differences between dental crowns and dental veneers? 

When it comes to what sets each restoration apart, patients need to make note of the following: 

  • Dental crowns cover all of the tooth’s exposed surfaces, while veneers only cover the front
  • Dental veneers are not strong enough to protect a tooth and give it more strength like a crown can
  • More natural tooth structure is removed to place a dental crown versus a dental veneer
  • Dental veneers are more of an aesthetic procedure while dental crowns are more of a restorative procedure

Which one is right for me? 

To determine the best restoration for a patient’s smile, Dr. Joseph Cavallo encourages patients to book a consultation visit and initial evaluation at his office. During this time, he can assess an individual’s specific needs and make knowledgeable recommendations based on this information. Both veneers and dental crowns are readily available at his practice. 

Request a consultation appointment 

Dr. Joseph Cavallo and his team in Woodbridge, VA believe in utilizing the proper restorations to repair the smile. Whether you are considering a dental bridge or a porcelain veneer, he can assist in making an educated decision and knowledgeable choice. Call the office at (703) 490-5888 to request a consultation visit at 12502-A Lake Ridge Drive. We are open to new patients and families considering quality dental care in their community.

Five foods to avoid when you have dental crowns and other restorations

Cosmetic Dentistry, DENTAL CROWN

istock 1035136344 1 2Dental crowns and other restorations, such as porcelain veneers, inlays, onlays, and even dental bridges, provide patients with the replacement or repair of a natural tooth. Crowns are made to act as another layer of protection against damage to the natural tooth. However, patients who do not properly care for these restorations may find themselves in situations where they need to have them replaced because they become broken or damaged due to foods they’ve eaten. When you’ve made an investment in your smile with Dr. Joseph Cavallo, it is vital that you take care of these restorations to help them last. This includes avoiding certain foods that may damage them. Below are a list of some foods to avoid as they can cause significant damage to these repairs: 

  • Raw fruits and vegetables. Certain fruits and vegetables can be tough on dental restorations, including apples or carrots. Be sure to cut these foods into slices or smaller pieces for protection.

  • Sticky foods. Candies such as caramel and taffy are a no-go for patients with dental restorations. They can dislodge a dental crown or even pull one off of a tooth.

  • Hard snacks. Thick, crusty breads and hard pretzels can chip a tooth or crack dental restorations when biting down. It’s a good idea to stick to softer foods to prevent this from happening.

  • Popcorn. Popcorn is known for causing two common problems. In additional to breaking a tooth or restoration when chewing on a hard kernel, shells can also become stuck underneath dental crowns and bridges and cause pain or infection.

  • Ice cubes. As refreshing and satisfying as an ice cube can be on a hot summer day, it’s a horrible idea to chew them as they risk cracking, chipping, and fracturing natural teeth and dental restorations. 

Do you have questions about tooth restoration? 

If you are in need of dental restorations, or have them and want more information on the best ways to care for them, book an appointment with Dr. Joseph Cavallo and his team in Woodbridge, Virginia. His facility, located at 12502-A Lake Ridge Road, offers services to new and established patients who call the office at (703) 490-5888. 

dental crowns woodbridge va

What Are Dental Crowns?

Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Crowns, dental implants, general dentistry, Missing Teeth, replacing missing teeth, restorative dentistry

If you have never had a dental crown, you’re probably a bit unsure of what they actually are. In fact, if you have had a crown, you may still have some of the same questions. Dental crowns are one of the most common restorative dental procedures, designed to look and feel like a natural tooth to maintain long-term dental health.

dental crowns woodbridge va

What Are Dental Crowns?

Dental crowns are a sort of cap that goes over a damaged tooth, replacing it with a strong chewing surface. Depending on the patient, Dr. Cavallo offers metal, porcelain, composite, or combined material crowns. Porcelain and composite in particular are designed to be almost indistinguishable from your natural teeth.

How Do They Work?

The old tooth will be prepared by stabilizing the damage then shaping the tooth to fit the crown. The crown will be custom made to fit your mouth and maintain good alignment. Your custom-fit crown will then be cemented permanently into place for years of use.

What Do They Treat?

One of the most common reasons for dental crowns is tooth decay. Patients may also receive a crown after cracking a tooth or due to excessive wear. The goal of a dental crown is always to restore a healthy natural bite, so they can be used in any instance where the bite has been permanently altered. In some instances, crowns may also be used to replace a tooth that has been permanently discolored, due to injury or some other cause.

Schedule a Consultation

Do you have a dental concern that might be treated by a crown? Contact the office of Dr. Joseph P. Cavallo in Woodbridge, VA. To schedule a consultation and discuss your treatment options, contact us on our website or at (703) 493-1203.

Patients Review Our Woodbridge, VA Dental Practice

choosing a woodbridge dentist, Cosmetic Dentistry

At the dental office of Dr. Joseph P. Cavallo, we are committed to providing high-end dentistry to patients with complex dental problems. We offer a full range of cosmetic and restorative treatments to improve the health and function of your smile. We take pride in offering personalized solutions for your dentistry needs.

If you are looking for a highly trained dentist in Woodbridge, visit our office for the dental care you need.

Patient Reviews

We love knowing that our patients have had a positive experience at our dental practice. Read some of our most recent patient reviews to learn more about Dr. Cavallo and our dental care team.

I highly recommend Dr. Cavallo. He and his staff are top notch. He takes time to explain things and is very thorough. His staff is very friendly, always helpful and their customer service is outstanding. Dr. Cavallo and his staff have provided excellent care to my father and have helped him deal with some major dental issues. His teeth look amazing. I can’t thank them enough for taking such good care of my family. -M.B.

I first visited Dr. Joe in the early 90’s. He is the best! I have moved around. Never forgot his care and attention. I have a full set of teeth! 64 in October. He did not just fix them. He trained me to care for them. Love ya Dr. Joe! -G.P.

Exxxxxxcellent Dentist. Dr. Cavallo is knowledgeable, nice, friendly and very professional. He really gave the best care possible to me, my husband and children’s. He is an amazing doctor. I highly recommend parents to bring their children’s to see him. Best dentist and our visit was wonderful. Thank you, Dr. Cavallo.
Like -R.G.

I am a 69 year old male that for the first time, found reason to review any person or business. Dr. Cavallo and his staff are the most personable and professional group I’ve had the good fortune of encountering. From the first phone call to them until the final great result, I found the entire experience very pleasant. Dr. Cavallo is to be considered a true gem to his craft. -W.P.

If you have visited our office recently, please feel free to leave us a review and tell us about your visit.

Dental Implants in Woodbridge, VA

Dr. Cavallo is a highly trained implant dentist in Woodbridge, VA. He works with patients on an individual basis to determine which type of dental implants best suit their needs. If you are missing one or more teeth, dental implants may be right for you. We offer full-service dental implants in one convenient location. Dr. Cavallo will examine your teeth, bone, and gums to determine if implants are right for you.

Visit Us For A Consultation

If you are searching for an experienced and trusted dentist in Woodbridge, VA, visit the dental practice of Dr. Cavallo. To schedule an appointment, call [new_patient_phone_span] or request an appointment online.

dental hygiene woodbridge va

Choosing the Best Dental Products for You

Cosmetic Dentistry, Diet, Electric Toothbrush, general dentistry, Healthy Diet, Oral Health, oral hygiene

dental hygiene woodbridge va

With all the products on the market these days, choosing the right dental hygiene products for you can be overwhelming. With every brand making the same claims, what’s the best choice? A lot of choosing dental products comes down to personal preference – choose the brand that feels the most effective to you. However, there are a few things you can be sure to look out for in each part of your hygiene routine.

Toothbrush

The backbone of any home hygiene regimen is the toothbrush. Look for a soft-bristled brush; soft bristles are enough to clean the teeth without damaging the enamel or gums. A stuff-bristled brush can even cause your gums to recede. Any other features are up to personal preference. There isn’t much evidence that either regular or electronic brushes do a better job of cleaning your teeth. Electric brushes can, however, be easier to use. This can make then a good fit for patients with mobility or motor control issues. Whatever you choose, be sure to replace your brush or brush head about every three months.

Toothpaste

The most important thing to look for in your toothpaste is fluoride. Choose one with at least 1000 parts per million of fluoride, and a seal of approval from the American Dental Association. Anything else is really up to your preference. Use whatever toothpaste feels the best to you.

Floss

The major deciding factor when choosing a floss is the spacing of your teeth. If you have widely spaced teeth choose a thicker floss. Dental tape may even be a good option for people with gaps between their teeth. If your teeth are very tightly packed, a thinner floss is going to be more comfortable to use. Any other features – waxed or monofilament, flavored, disposable flossers – is just up to what you like and is familiar.

Mouthwash

When choosing a mouthwash, again look for fluoride. For most people, an alcohol mouthwash with fluoride is the best choice. The alcohol will kill the bacteria in your mouth, and the fluoride reduces tooth decay.

Questions? Schedule a Consultation

If you have questions about the best products for your mouth, we are happy to help. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Joseph Cavallo to discuss your specific needs. Contact our office online or over the phone at (703) 493-1203 and schedule your consultations today.

Learn more about porcelain veneer in Woodbridge VA

How To Determine If Porcelain Veneers Are Right For You

Chipped Teeth, Cosmetic Dentistry

If you are unhappy with the appearance of your smile, you may benefit from cosmetic dentistry. Cosmetic dentistry treatments are designed to improve the appearance of your smile and address cosmetic dental concerns. For instance, cosmetic dentistry can be used to address uneven, chipped, discolored, and misshapen teeth.

One of the most common cosmetic treatment options is dental veneers. Dental veneers are composite or porcelain shells that are permanently bonded to the front and sides of your teeth to enhance the appearance of your smile. Veneers typically required at least two visits to our Woodbridge, VA dentist office.

If you are wondering if porcelain veneers in Woodbridge, VA are right for you, visit the dental office of Dr. Joseph Cavallo. In the meantime, read on to learn more about porcelain veneers and explore how porcelain veneers can benefit you.

Learn more about porcelain veneer in Woodbridge VA

4 Reasons To Consider Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain veneers can help restore beauty and balance to your smile. Under the care of an experienced cosmetic dentist, patients can achieve the smile of their dream. In this section, we will explore some of the most common reasons patients should consider porcelain veneers.

You have fractured, chipped, or broken teeth

If you have chipped, fractured, or broken teeth, porcelain veneers may be the solution that you’ve been searching for. Depending on the severity of the damage, Dr. Cavallo may recommend porcelain veneers to improve the appearance of your smile.

You are unhappy with the appearance of your smile

As mention, porcelain veneers can transform the appearance of your smile. Whether you want to address discolored teeth, chipped teeth, uneven teeth, or gapped teeth, porcelain veneers can help you achieve your ideal smile. During your consultation, Dr. Cavallo can assess your smile and discuss your dental concerns to determine if porcelain veneers are right for you.

You have misaligned or crooked teeth

We can address minor alignment issues with dental veneers. With advanced orthodontic issues, we may refer you to an orthodontist. During the treatment planning process, Dr. Cavallo can customize veneers so that they meet your desired shape, size, and color. In the end, patients can achieve a straighter, more aesthetically pleasing smile.

You have worn teeth

Worn teeth can be caused by teeth grinding and clenching. Addressing teeth grinding is the first part of the solution; the second step is finding a solution to address worn or damaged teeth. With porcelain veneers, patients can restore their smile. In addition, veneers can help stabilize the bite and allow patients to chew more comfortably.

Candidacy For Porcelain Veneers

It is important to note that porcelain veneers may not be the ideal solution for all patients. In many cases, patients who are ideal candidates for porcelain veneers should possess these key qualities:

  • have excellent periodontal health
  • be in good oral and overall health
  • practice and maintain a healthy oral hygiene routine
  • have an adequate amount of healthy tooth enamel
  • have specific, realistic goals in mind for your smile

Receive Porcelain Veneers in Woodbridge, VA

Visit our Woodbridge, VA dentist office to learn more about cosmetic dentistry and determine if porcelain veneers are right for you. To learn more about porcelain veneers, call (703) 493-1203, or request an appointment online.

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