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In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, it’s easy to overlook the significance of regular dental checkups. However, maintaining optimal oral health is not just about addressing problems as they arise; it’s about prevention and proactive care. At Stone Springs Dentistry, serving patients in South Riding, Aldie, and Loudoun, we believe in the importance of biannual dental checkups. Let’s delve into why these appointments are a cornerstone of a healthy and radiant smile.

Preventive Maintenance: A Stitch in Time Saves Nine

Imagine your oral health as a well-tended garden. Regular dental checkups act as the diligent gardener, ensuring that any budding issues are identified and addressed before they blossom into major concerns. During these checkups, our skilled dental professionals can detect early signs of decay, cavities, or gum disease. By intervening early, we can implement preventive measures and save you from potential discomfort, extensive treatments, and higher dental bills down the road.

Comprehensive Oral Examinations: Beyond the Surface

Biannual checkups provide an opportunity for a comprehensive oral examination that goes beyond the surface. Our experienced dentists at Stone Springs Dentistry take the time to assess your overall oral health, including your teeth, gums, jaw, and surrounding structures. This holistic approach allows us to identify any abnormalities, such as signs of oral cancer or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, ensuring a thorough evaluation of your entire oral cavity.

Professional Dental Cleaning: A Refresh for Your Smile

While at-home oral care is crucial, it can’t replace the precision and effectiveness of a professional dental cleaning. Plaque and tartar build-up over time, even with meticulous brushing and flossing. Our dental hygienists can skillfully remove these deposits, preventing the development of cavities and gum disease. The fresh, polished feeling you experience after a professional cleaning is not just about aesthetics; it’s a tangible reminder of your commitment to oral health.

Personalized Oral Health Guidance: Knowledge is Power

Biannual dental checkups are an excellent opportunity to receive personalized guidance on your oral health. Our dentists take the time to discuss your oral hygiene practices, provide tips on optimal brushing and flossing techniques, and address any concerns you may have. This collaborative approach empowers you with the knowledge and tools needed to maintain a healthy smile between visits.

Monitoring Changes Over Time: Your Dental Health Journey

Regular checkups create a comprehensive timeline of your dental health journey. By monitoring changes over time, we can identify patterns, track improvements, and address any emerging trends. This long-term perspective allows us to tailor our approach to your evolving oral health needs, ensuring continuity of care that adapts to your unique circumstances.

Building a Trusting Relationship: Your Dental Home

Biannual dental checkups foster a trusting relationship between you and your dental care team. Getting to know you, understanding your concerns, and addressing your specific needs create a sense of comfort and confidence in your dental home. This connection not only enhances your overall experience but also encourages open communication about your oral health goals and aspirations.

Conclusion: Prioritize Your Smile, Prioritize Your Health

At Stone Springs Dentistry, we believe that preventive care is the foundation of lasting oral health. By prioritizing biannual dental checkups, you invest in the well-being of your smile and overall health. Don’t wait for issues to escalate; schedule your regular dental checkup today and embark on a journey towards a radiant, healthy smile that lasts a lifetime.

Serving Patients in South Riding

We love serving the people of Aldie and helping them achieve their healthy smile goals. Whether that means essential preventative dentistry through regular cleaning appointments, something more advanced like dental implants, or even cosmetic treatments like veneers to give your smile a pearly white gleam, we look forward to being your partners in lifelong dental health. Check this map if you need directions to our practice. 

If you are unsure whether your situation is considered a dental emergency, do not hesitate to contact us anyway. We quickly diagnose and determine the gravity of the problem and treat you according to your emergency needs promptly. Sometimes life happens, and there are just times when dental care is immediately needed. In these times, an emergency dentist is who you need to call.

Directions to Our Practice

If you aren’t familiar with our location in South Riding, we can help using a few notable starting points in town as a reference. If you know where StoneSprings Hospital Center is, we’re right across the highway, in the same building as the Gum Spring Library. 

For anyone coming to us from the direction of Dulles International Airport, take Ariane Way north to Old Ox Rd (VA 606) and turn left. Keep going around a couple bends for more than five miles, then take a left onto Loudoun County Pkwy. Take a right onto Dulles W Blvd, then left onto Arcola Blvd, right at the Exxon onto John Mosby Highway, left onto Gateway Village Pl, right onto Southpoint Dr, right again onto Millstream Dr, and then into the library parking lot. We’re right in the same building!

Fun Trivia About South Riding and Loudoun County

South Riding, despite having a Town Hall and being home to over 33,000 people, is technically not its own town or city. It is still a “census-deisgnated place” so it’s governed by the county and by the non-profit corporation South Riding Proprietary. Everyone who owns property in South Riding becomes part of the association automatically. How much do you know about the county we live in? Compare your knowledge against our list of Loudoun County facts:

1. Earl of Loudoun’s Legacy: Founded in 1757, Loudoun County derives its name from John Campbell, the Fourth Earl of Loudoun, a distinguished Scottish military commander renowned for his role in the Seven Years’ War.
2. Civil War Crossroads: A strategic crossroads during the American Civil War, Loudoun County bore witness to pivotal moments. The Battle of Balls Bluff in 1861, fought along the Potomac River’s banks, is just one chapter in the county’s storied wartime history.
3. Dairy Dominion: In the early 1900s, Loudoun County earned acclaim for its flourishing dairy industry. The region was a prolific producer of milk, cheese, and butter, distributed far and wide across the nation.
4. War-Time Training Ground: During World War II, Loudoun County housed the Oatlands Training Center, a vital hub where the U.S. military conducted covert operations training, leaving an indelible mark on the county’s wartime contributions.
5. Middleburg’s Rich Tapestry: The historic town of Middleburg, nestled in Loudoun County, boasts a compelling history. Once a refuge for the largest African-American community in the area during the Jim Crow era, Middleburg stands as a testament to resilience and civil rights activism.
6. Aviation Hub: In 1991, the bustling Dulles International Airport took flight in Loudoun County, becoming a major player in the county’s economic growth and development as one of the busiest airports in the United States.
7. Historic Landmarks Abound: Loudoun County’s landscape is adorned with historic treasures like the Oatlands Historic House and Gardens, Morven Park, and the Belmont Farm. These landmarks offer a window into the county’s rich cultural heritage and storied past.

Top image by Wikimedia user Famartin used under Creative Commons Attribution-Sharealike 4.0 International license. Image cropped and modified from original.

At Stone Springs Dentistry in Loudoun County, we believe that prevention is the key to affordable family dentistry. Maintaining a healthy smile for your entire family doesn’t have to break the bank. By making preventative dental care a priority, you not only ensure optimal oral health but also save on potential future dental expenses. Let’s explore how a commitment to preventive dentistry can keep your family’s smiles radiant without straining your budget.

The Wisdom of Preventative Care

1. Regular Dental Check-Ups

Scheduling regular dental check-ups for every member of your family is the cornerstone of preventative care. These routine visits allow our experienced dental professionals to catch potential issues early, preventing them from evolving into more significant problems that may require costly treatments.

2. Professional Cleanings

Professional cleanings are not just about achieving a sparkling smile; they play a crucial role in preventing gum disease and cavities. By staying consistent with cleanings, you’re investing in the long-term health of your family’s teeth and gums.

3. Education for Good Oral Hygiene

Prevention starts at home, and our team at Stone Springs Dentistry is dedicated to providing you with the knowledge and tools necessary for excellent oral hygiene. Teaching your family the importance of regular brushing, flossing, and other good habits can go a long way in preventing dental issues.

4. Addressing Minor Issues Promptly

Small dental issues, like a tiny cavity or a minor alignment concern, can quickly escalate if left untreated. By addressing these minor problems promptly, you not only save on potential future dental procedures but also ensure that your family’s oral health remains in top shape.

The Economic Advantage

It might not seem like a fabulous deal to pay for regular dental appointments even if you have no symptoms of a problem, but skipping things like professionally cleanings and exams is gambling that you and the rest of your family will be able to avoid much more expensive dental health problems for life. You could win the lottery and keep yourselves cavity and gum disease free without any help from a dentist, but the odds aren’t good. Here are some of the ways preventative care is your most affordable family dentistry option:

• Cost Savings in the Long Run: Prevention is not just about maintaining oral health; it’s also about saving money. Investing in regular check-ups and cleanings is significantly more cost-effective than dealing with the consequences of neglected dental issues.
• Avoiding Emergency Treatments: Dental emergencies can be both physically and financially painful. Preventative care helps avoid the need for emergency dental care, which often comes with higher costs.
• Preserving Dental Insurance Benefits: Maximize the benefits of your dental insurance by utilizing preventative care. Most insurance plans cover preventive services, making it a financially savvy choice for families.

Your Family’s Bright Smile Awaits With Affordable Family Dentistry

At Stone Springs Dentistry, we understand the importance of a healthy and beautiful smile for every member of your family. By prioritizing preventative care, you’re not only investing in your oral health but also ensuring that your family’s dentistry remains affordable over time.

Take the proactive step today — schedule your family’s regular dental check-ups and cleanings with us at Stone Springs Dentistry. Our friendly and experienced team is here to partner with you on the journey to optimal oral health for your entire family. Remember, a healthy smile is a lifelong investment, and we’re here to make it both achievable and affordable for you. You can learn more about us by checking our business page, and make sure to get directions before heading to our Aldie practice in Loudoun County.

2023 IS COMING TO a close, and that means another year of insurance benefits is about to expire. If you haven’t taken advantage of your dental insurance yet, that’s okay, but the year is almost over, so the time to use them is now. To help you prepare, we want to give you an idea of how to use your dental insurance at Stone Springs Dentistry in Aldie (also convenient for patients in Loudon and South Riding).

Insurance Benefits Typically Don’t Roll Over to Next Year

Each year, your dental insurance provider probably gives you a maximum amount of available benefits. Since those benefits don’t typically roll over into the following year, you’ll want to contact us now to get your appointment scheduled!

What Are Dental Benefits?

Dental benefits are the cost-free treatments you get from subscribing to a dental plan. Generally, most health insurance companies are straightforward and specify the type of services they cover.

What Does Dental Insurance Cover?

Oral insurance plans typically cover the cost of preventive care, fillings, root canals, oral surgery, and crowns. However, some dental procedures may include restorative and orthodontic treatments such as braces, dentures, Invisalign, and bridges.

Understand Your Maximum Benefit

When you pay for your dental insurance each month, you’re paying for coverage up to a certain point. That coverage amount is your annual maximum. When the year ends, everything starts over, and you start building back up to that max from zero again.

It means that the money you were supposed to use for essential dental treatments goes down the drain, which is a massive gain to the insurance company and a sad loss to you. That’s why you should never skip out on your dental checkups. Regular oral checkups help you maintain oral health and give you the most bang for your buck.

Understand Your Insurance Deductible

Your deductible also resets at the beginning of the new year. It is the amount that you must pay out of pocket before insurance kicks in. Most health plans use the 100-80-50 structure to specify their contribution to certain dental services. The amount will vary from plan to plan.

All this means that the cost of preventive care could be 100% covered, basic treatments 80% covered, and major dental procedures covered at 50%. Additionally, some insurance companies may not cover cosmetic treatments such as teeth whitening or crowns.

100% Dental Coverage on Preventive Dental Procedures

Your dental policy isn’t just for getting your teeth fixed. It’s about maintaining excellent oral health and preventing disease before it starts. Taking advantage of your dental benefits will always be a win for you. Most dental plans cover 100% of the following up to two times per year:

• Regular professional teeth cleaning: helps prevent cavities and gets rid of plaque and tartar you can’t remove with just flossing and brushing.
• A dental examination: this is more than just checking for cavities. Your dentist inspects your soft tissues and looks for suspicious areas related to oral cancer. They examine your thyroid, lymph nodes, and jaw joints.
• Dental X-rays: these show problems that aren’t visible to the naked eye. Small cavities between your teeth can be hard to detect, and abscessed teeth are sometimes only seen through X-rays.

Your Insurance Won’t Wait and Neither Will Cavities

While cavities may be inconvenient, it’s imperative that we get them treated immediately. Early treatment of cavities prevents long-term damage to our teeth and is essential to maintaining a beautiful, healthy smile! An easy way to effectively use your insurance benefits is to schedule preventive care visits early.

We Can’t Wait to See You!

At Stone Springs Dentistry in Aldie, we’re always looking out for our patients and want to make sure you’re taking the fullest advantage of your dental benefits! If you have any questions regarding dental insurance, stop by or call us today and we can help! Make sure to contact us to schedule an appointment so you can make the most out of your dental insurance before the end of the year. You can learn more about us by checking our business page, and don’t forget to check the map before you head our way.

The greatest benefits are to your dental health!

Top image used under CC0 Public Domain license. Image cropped and modified from original.

The content on this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health providers with questions you may have regarding medical conditions.

WE GET A LOT OF patients and parents of patients asking us the same questions about pediatric dentistry at our Aldie practice, so we’re rounding up a few of the most common questions we hear and providing the answers in an FAQ! If these questions have been burning in your mind, we’ve got your answers here!

When is the right time for a child’s first dental appointment?

A child can benefit from a dentist as soon as their first tooth appears! That’s why we recommend bringing them to see us around six months old (and no later than their first birthday). The earlier you bring them in, the more advice we can offer on taking care of incoming baby teeth and managing those difficult teething periods.

How important is it to keep baby teeth healthy?

If our kids are just going to lose their baby teeth in a few years anyway, does it really matter if they get cavities? A lot of parents think this way, but that’s something we discourage. Just because baby teeth are temporary doesn’t mean they’re not important. Baby teeth are essential for chewing food, learning to speak clearly, and mastering lifelong dental health habits like brushing and flossing. They also guide the adult teeth into place!

What can I do if my child gets a toothache?

A good way to soothe the ache is to have your child swish (but not swallow) some warm salt water. You can also apply a cold compress to their face and give them children’s Tylenol (to ingest, not as a topical treatment). These should all be temporary measures until you can bring them in to see us.

How bad are thumbsucking and pacifiers for my child’s teeth?

They aren’t bad at all — at first. These habits can become an oral health concern in time, if they continue them beyond age three, but most children grow out of them on their own. After age three, it’s time to start thinking about strategies for discouraging the habit. If you’d like suggestions, we can help with that.

What’s the right amount of toothpaste for brushing my child’s teeth?

It’s important not to use too much toothpaste when brushing a young child’s teeth, because that can lead to fluorosis (discoloration) in the incoming adult teeth. All you need is a tiny smear of toothpaste when brushing a baby’s or toddler’s teeth, and a dab the size of a pea is enough for ages 3-6. Also make sure you’re encouraging them to spit it out instead of swallowing!

Did We Miss Your Question?

If your biggest questions about pediatric dentistry weren’t on our list, don’t hesitate to ask us anyway! We want all parents to be as educated as possible on children’s dental health concerns so that they can give their kids the best chance at lifelong healthy smiles! You can learn more about our Aldie dental office, convenient for patients in South Riding by checking our business page, and make sure to get directions before heading our way.

We love all of our pediatric dentistry patients!

Top image used under CC0 Public Domain license. Image cropped and modified from original.

The content on this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health providers with questions you may have regarding medical conditions.

Stone Springs Dentistry in Aldie

Finding the right dentist is crucial when it comes to maintaining good oral health for your family. Whether you’re new to the Aldie, VA area or simply looking for a change, you’ll want to optimize your search to find the best “dentist near me.” In this blog, we’ll explore the essential tips to help you discover the ideal family dentist for your needs in Aldie, Virginia, focusing on the excellent Stone Springs Dentistry.

Why Choose a Family Dentist?

Before diving into the tips for finding the best family dentist near you in Aldie, it’s essential to understand the advantages of choosing a family dentist. Family dentists offer comprehensive oral care for patients of all ages, from young children to seniors. Here are some reasons why they’re an excellent choice:

1. Convenience

One of the most significant benefits of having a family dentist is convenience. You can schedule appointments for multiple family members on the same day, reducing the number of trips to the dental clinic.

2. Continuity of Care

You’ll receive consistent care from childhood through adulthood with a family dentist. It ensures a long-term relationship where your dentist understands your family’s unique dental history and needs.

3. Comprehensive Services

Family dentists offer various services, from routine check-ups and cleanings to specialized treatments like orthodontics. This means your family can receive all their dental care in one place.

Tips for Finding the Best Dentist Near Me in Aldie

Now that we’ve highlighted the benefits of choosing a family dentist, let’s explore some tips for finding the best one near you in Aldie, VA:

1. Ask for Recommendations

Word of mouth is a powerful tool for finding a reputable family dentist. Ask friends, family members, coworkers, and neighbors for their recommendations. They can provide valuable insights into their experiences with local dentists.

2. Check Online Reviews

In today’s digital age, online reviews are readily available and can provide a wealth of information about a dental practice. Type ‘dentist near me’ on websites like Google, Yelp, and Healthgrades. These sites feature patient reviews and ratings for dentists in your area. Look for dentists with consistently positive reviews and a high rating.

3. Verify Credentials

Ensure that the dentist you’re considering is licensed to practice in Virginia and has the necessary qualifications. You can find this information on their website or by contacting the dental board.

4. Visit the Dental Clinic

Before making a decision, consider visiting the dental clinic in person. Doing this will allow you to assess the facility’s cleanliness and organization. A well-maintained and modern clinic is a positive sign.

5. Evaluate Their Services

Look for a family dentist who offers a comprehensive range of services. Check if they provide preventive care, restorative treatments, and cosmetic dentistry. Access to a wide array of services can save you time and hassle in the long run.

6. Inquire About Insurance and Payment Options

If you have dental insurance, make sure the dentist accepts your plan. Additionally, inquire about their payment options and whether they offer flexible financing for more extensive treatments.

7. Consider Location and Hours

Choose a family dentist whose location is convenient for you and your family. It’s also essential to consider their office hours. Flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, can make fitting dental visits into your busy schedule much easier.

Stone Springs Dentistry | Dentist Near Me in Aldie, VA

When finding the best family dentist near you in Aldie, VA, Stone Springs Dentistry is an excellent choice. With their comprehensive services, experienced team, and commitment to patient comfort and convenience, you can trust them to provide top-notch dental care for your entire family. Follow the tips above to ensure your search for a family dentist in Aldie is successful and rewarding. Your family’s oral health is in good hands with Stone Springs Dentistry.

Aldie, VA: A Rich Tapestry of History

The roots of Aldie, Virginia, trace back to 1765 when James and George Mercer established a mill at the site of the present-day historic edifice. The location was strategically chosen, as it marked the convergence of the Belhaven Road, connecting Winchester and Alexandria, and the Mountain Road, leading northwest to Snickers Gap. By 1809, the completion of the Little River Turnpike from Alexandria to the Mercer Mill replaced the older rutted section of the Belhaven Road, enhancing transportation and trade in the region.

In 1811, Aldie welcomed its own post office, marking the establishment of the village’s identity. The visionary Charles Fenton Mercer, son of James Mercer, and William Cooke seized the opportunity to develop a thriving village on 30 acres of land at the western terminus of the turnpike. The village was fittingly named after Castle Aldie, the ancestral home of Charles Fenton Mercer’s Scottish clan.

Throughout the early 19th century, Aldie experienced growth and prosperity, becoming the fourth largest town in the county by the 1820 census, boasting a population of 248 residents. During the tumultuous times of the Civil War, Aldie found itself at the heart of history. The village and its surrounding lands witnessed the Battle of Aldie during the Gettysburg Campaign. Confederate partisan, John Singleton Mosby, operated actively in the area, engaging in skirmishes with Union cavalry in and around Aldie.

Notably, Aldie’s history is intertwined with a prominent figure in American history—President James Monroe. In 1822, Monroe constructed his private residence at Oak Hill within the village, becoming one of Aldie’s most famous residents.

Explore Aldie’s Vibrant Surroundings: Fun and Fascinating Activities

In addition to its rich historical charm, Aldie, Virginia, offers an array of fun and interesting things to see and do that captivate residents and visitors alike. Embrace the local culture and embark on exciting adventures in and around Aldie as you experience the following attractions:

Delve into the past at the Aldie Mill Historic District, a treasured landmark that preserves the history of the village’s milling industry. Take a guided tour and learn about the mill’s significance in the community’s development. Take a scenic drive or hike to Snickers Gap, offering breathtaking views of the picturesque countryside and surrounding mountains. It’s a perfect spot for outdoor enthusiasts to soak in the beauty of nature.

Discover the beauty of Aldie’s landscapes through various hiking and biking trails, providing a wonderful opportunity to explore the area’s natural wonders and stay active. Savor the flavors of Virginia’s wine country with visits to nearby wineries and breweries. Treat yourself to tastings and indulge in the region’s finest vintages and craft brews.

Experience the equestrian spirit of Aldie with horseback riding adventures at local stables. Enjoy leisurely rides through rolling fields and embrace the area’s equestrian heritage. Immerse yourself in Aldie’s vibrant community spirit by attending local cultural events and festivals. Celebrate the area’s traditions, arts, and local talent while creating cherished memories.

Gather friends and family for delightful picnics at scenic parks in Aldie. Bask in the serenity of open spaces and create cherished moments with your loved ones. Pay a visit to the iconic Oak Hill, the former residence of President James Monroe. Admire the architecture and take a glimpse into the life of one of America’s founding fathers.

Stone Springs Dentistry in Aldie, VA

We love serving the people of Aldie and helping them achieve their healthy smile goals. Whether that means essential preventative dentistry through regular cleaning appointments, something more advanced like dental implants, or even cosmetic treatments like veneers to give your smile a pearly white gleam, we look forward to being your partners in lifelong dental health. Check this map if you need directions to our practice.

If you are unsure whether your situation is considered a dental emergency, do not hesitate to contact us anyway. We quickly diagnose and determine the gravity of the problem and treat you according to your emergency needs promptly. Sometimes life happens, and there are just times when dental care is immediately needed. In these times, an emergency dentist is who you need to call.

Top image by Sarah Stierch (CC BY 4.0).

THE SMILE OF a happy child is one of the best things in the world. Unfortunately, dental caries (tooth decay) is the most common chronic disease of childhood. We want those smiles to stay as healthy as possible, which is why we’re dedicating a blog post to baby teeth dental care in Aldie.

Baby Teeth Matter

Because baby teeth are temporary, you might be tempted to think they’re not very important, but don’t fall into that trap. Healthy baby teeth are essential for speech development, building self esteem, promoting good nutrition through proper chewing, and saving space in the jaw for the development and positioning of adult teeth.

Avoid Sipping on Juice or Milk

The harmful oral bacteria in our mouths that cause tooth decay love sugar. Every time we eat or drink something sugary, they have a party, and it takes about half an hour for our saliva to wash away the leftover sugars. However, when we give our kids sippy cups or bottles of milk or juice to drink over a long period of time, their saliva doesn’t have time to wash away the residue and their oral bacteria gets to party nonstop.

This is such a common problem that it has a name: bottle rot. You can protect your child’s teeth from bottle rot by only giving them milk or juice at mealtimes and only giving them bottles or sippy cups of water to sip on while they play or when you put them to bed.

Thumbsucking and Pacifiers

It is perfectly natural and healthy for babies and toddlers to suck on their thumbs or fingers or use a pacifier. Doing so helps them feel safe and happy, and most children will stop on their own around age four. However, if they keep going after that, it can begin to impact their dental alignment, creating problems like an open bite. Come see us if you’re concerned about your child’s thumbsucking or pacifier habit.

Sealants

One great way to give your child’s teeth extra protection from cavities is sealants. These are typically applied to the chewing surfaces of molars. They cover deep pits and grooves that are so difficult to keep clean. The sealing process is quick and easy, with no discomfort, and the teeth will be protected for years. We offer this dental care service at our Aldie practice.

Good Oral Health Habits

No matter what your child eats or drinks, if they have sealants, and if they grow out of using a pacifier or sucking their thumb on their own, nothing can replace good oral health habits like daily brushing and flossing. While your child is too young to do it themselves, you can do it for them and with them and explain why it’s so important for keeping their teeth healthy and happy.

Regular Checkups

Don’t forget that one of your best resources for keeping your child’s teeth healthy is the dentist! With regular checkups, we can make sure that everything is going well and answer any questions you or your child have about good dental care in Aldie. You can learn more about our practice by checking our business page, and make sure to get directions before heading our way.

Let’s keep those teeth happy and healthy!

Top image used under CC0 Public Domain license. Image cropped and modified from original.

The content on this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health providers with questions you may have regarding medical conditions.

What Is a Dentist?

A dentist is a specialist who has been trained to diagnose, treat, and prevent oral health problems. Dr. Marvdashti has completed many years of medical schooling in order to practice dentistry. After schooling, a dentist can receive either a DDS or DMD degree. DDS stands for Doctor of Dental Surgery degree and DMD stands for Doctor of Dental Medicine. Some doctors specialize in pediatric dentistry as well, which means that they work with children from infancy up through their teenage years. There are other specializations that a dentist may go to school for:

• Oral and maxillofacial (includes pathology, radiology, and surgery)
• Orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics
• Endodontics (specialization in root canals)
• Periodontics (specialization in gum disease)
• Prosthodontics (specialization in dental implants)

What Is Dentistry?

Dentistry is the treatment and prevention of disorders and diseases of a patient’s teeth, gums, mouth, and jaw. Dentistry performed properly is necessary for complete oral health, and it has a significant impact on the health of a patient’s entire body.

Are Regular Dental Cleanings Necessary?

Here at Stone Springs Dentistry, we know how busy life can be. Fitting a dental appointment into your busy schedule seems to be one of the most difficult things you have to do. Proper oral hygiene can be difficult to maintain. Brushing for two minutes twice a day and flossing after every meal will keep many oral hygiene problems away, but not all.

Scheduling a cleaning at Stone Springs Dentistry in Aldie twice a year is highly recommended to maintain proper oral hygiene and catch problems before they become costly and painful.

Do I Need to See a Dentist Even If My Teeth Feel Fine?

It’s very important to schedule regular cleanings here at Stone Springs Dentistry. Our dentists recommend twice a year. There are many problems that can exist without us knowing. Not only can we identify problems before they become painful and expensive, but we can also help to keep your smile looking fantastic. We know how important it is to feel comfortable with your smile. This is why we offer many treatments to help improve patient aesthetics.

What’s a Dental Cleaning Like at Stone Springs Dentistry?

Sixth-month cleanings are recommended for proper oral hygiene. At Stone Springs Dentistry, an appointment will include a full oral examination, oral cancer exam, professional X-rays to catch cavities, and a full cleaning by our amazing hygienists. Your cleaning will remove tartar, debris, and plaque from your mouth.

The dentist will coordinate with your hygienist and recommend a treatment plan for any problems that are found. We’ll also recommend any aesthetic and cosmetic treatments to improve your smile.

Please call our office at (703) 327-7222 to schedule an appointment or if you have any additional questions.

At What Age Should I Bring My Child To See The Dentist?

Professionals throughout the dental industry as well as the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommend starting dental checkups as early as six months of age. On average, this is when a child’s teeth begin to show. Our dentists will be able to examine the health of your child’s first few teeth and make recommendations.

When Should I Change My Toothbrush?

The dentist recommends at least every three months. If you’re using an electronic toothbrush, make sure to check the recommendation of the type of toothbrush because you may not have to change the head of the brush often. If a patient has gum disease, the dentist recommends that you change your brush more often than every three months. Also, after brushing, it’s very important to wash and rinse your brush out with hot water. This will kill germs and bacteria and keep your toothbrush clean.

How Do I Know If I Have Gum Disease?

Gum disease is also called periodontal disease. Plaque and bacteria build up in a patient’s mouth. When this buildup is not treated in the early stages, it can cause gum disease. Periodontal disease can also be caused by smoking and chewing tobacco, teeth grinding, certain medications, and genetics.

Advanced forms of periodontal disease can cause bone and tooth loss as well as permanent damage. The dentist recommends brushing and flossing every day as well as scheduling dental appointments every six months as the best ways to fight gum disease. Some of the most common signs of periodontal disease are the following:

• Abscessed teeth
• Extreme tooth sensitivity
• Chronic bad breath
• Loose teeth and or loss of teeth
• Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
• Receding gum line

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, please call us as soon as possible. You can reach us at (703) 327-7222 or email us to schedule a consultation. Your dental health is our highest concern. You can learn more about us by checking our business page, and make sure to get directions before heading our way.

GOING TO THE DENTIST for some basic preventative dentistry is something we should all be doing twice a year every year. If you’re in the Aldie, VA area and you’re already in the habit of coming in for regular cleanings, that’s wonderful! If not, here’s what you can expect from a typical cleaning appointment.

Your Check-Up Is Crucial for Preventative Dentistry

When visiting the dentist for a check-up, there are a few things that will typically happen. If you don’t have any existing dental concerns or conditions, the first step is usually dental X-rays. Your medical and dental history, your age, and your current oral health will determine how often you need these. Dental X-rays help dentists to find and diagnose tooth decay hiding between the teeth and other places hard to see with the naked eye. They also identify dental and orthodontic issues beneath the gums.

Next, the hygienist will begin cleaning the teeth. They use a small metal tool called a scaler to scrape away any tartar in between the teeth and around the gumline. Then they’ll polish the teeth using a lightly abrasive paste and a polishing tool. This gives your teeth a nice, deep clean and removes any remaining tartar. They finish the cleaning off with flossing.

Once the hygienist is done, it’s the dentist’s turn. They’ll review your X-rays, check your teeth and gums for signs of decay and gum disease, measure the depth of your gingival pockets, check for swelling and redness, test how well your teeth come together when you bite down, and examine your neck, lymph glands, and mouth for signs of oral cancer. When they finish, they’ll discuss treatment for any dental work you need and give you tips on improving your daily dental care routine.

Why Visiting The Dentist Is Important for Patients in Aldie

Even for people with great oral health habits like brushing twice a day for two minutes and flossing daily, the preventative dentistry step of visiting the dentist every six months is crucial to maintaining good oral health. The reason for this is that dental problems don’t go away on their own and tend to get worse, which also makes them more difficult (and expensive) to fix. Regular dental checkups catch problems early so that more intense treatment doesn’t become necessary.

We Can’t Wait To See You!

Whether it’s been six months or longer since the last time we saw you, we’re looking forward to seeing you again! Schedule your next appointment with us right away, and we can make sure everything in your mouth is healthy and clean! You can learn more about us by checking our business page, and make sure to get directions before you head our way!

We have the world’s best patients!

Top image used under CC0 Public Domain license. Image cropped and modified from original.

The content on this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health providers with questions you may have regarding medical conditions.