Sometimes, juggling and understanding our oral health care can be confusing. We want to walk with you on your journey to better oral health and a beautiful smile. Therefore, we have some common questions and important information for our Woodbridge, VA, patients.
What is preventative dentistry?
Preventative dental care gives Woodbridge dentist Dr. Joseph Cavallo the opportunity to keep an eye on your overall dental health. Our dental team will monitor the condition of your teeth and gums to identify any gum infections or dental problems while they are in the early stages. In this way, we can provide the most conservative and affordable treatment options.
What are the benefits of oral care?
Everyone knows that proper oral hygiene and regular check-ups keep your teeth and gums healthy. But many patients don’t realize that advanced hygiene and proactive tooth care could also help improve and protect your overall health as well!
Recent studies consistently show that gum infections can lead to or exacerbate serious health problems, such as heart attacks, strokes, certain cancers, pregnancy complications, and much more.
How common is gum disease?
The American Dental Association (ADA) says that 7 out of 10 adults have some form of gum disease. When left untreated, gum disease can contribute to missing teeth as well as other health concerns like diabetes, stroke, and heart disease.
Regular preventive care visits with Dr. Cavallo can help to reduce the build-up of plaque and tartar and prevent the spread of gum disease.
What should I expect during my teeth cleaning?
When you visit our dentist’s office in Woodbridge, Virginia, you will receive a comprehensive dental cleaning and examination. Our dental cleanings are performed by a registered dental hygienist.
Your visit may include:
- Professional dental cleaning
- Dental x-rays
- Periodontal screening
- Dental caries (cavities) screening
- Occlusal analysis to examine the position of the bite
How often should I visit the dentist for check-ups?
Generally, we recommend visiting the dentist for a check-up and cleaning every six months. However, the frequency may also vary based on your oral health needs. For example, Dr. Cavallo may recommend more frequent visits for patients with a history of cavities, gum disease, or other oral health issues.
Am I a good candidate for dental implants?
Good candidates generally have good oral health. They also need to have sufficient jawbone density to support the implants. Additionally, there is a need to be in overall good health. The procedure involves several steps, including implant placement, healing, and crown placement.
When should my child have their first dental visit?
the first dental visit should occur around the age of one or when the first tooth erupts. The dentist will perform a gentle exam, discuss oral care, and answer any questions.
What are the pros and cons of teeth whitening treatments?
Pros: improves smile aesthetics, relatively quick results, non-invasive.
Cons: temporary results, potential tooth sensitivity, may not work on all types of stains.