Northern Virginia Dental Associates

How Can Invisalign Benefit the Whole Family?

Is it time for your children to undergo orthodontic treatment? Do you wish you had straighter teeth as well? A cosmetic dentist can let you know if you and your family are good candidates for Invisalign braces. 

In this video, you’ll meet a mother of two who discovered Invisalign and set out to tell other moms why Invisalign can suit busy adults, active teens, and growing tweens better than traditional, metal-bracket braces can. She explains how Invisalign works to correct major and minor dental abnormalities, and describes what Invisalign treatment entails.

If you would like to learn more about how Invisalign can help you achieve a better-looking smile, call Northern Virginia Dental Associates at (703) 451-8332. Our cosmetic dentists will evaluate your smile, determine your eligibility for Invisalign, and help you begin treatment. 

The Benefits of Digital Dental X-Rays

Technology is rapidly changing the way that dentists operate, making it easier to provide quality dental care. For example, patients can now receive clearer dental images due to the development of digital dental radiography, or digital X-rays. 

With digital dental imaging, film is replaced with a flat dental sensor that electronically sends the images to a nearby computer. This allows for immediate results so the dentist can provide personalized feedback and tips for better oral hygiene. To learn more about the benefits of digital dental X-rays, see below.

Digital dental X-rays make it easier to detect oral bacterial infections, tooth decay, oral cancer and other abnormalities, providing stronger pathways to better and more precise professional dental care. 

Better Patient Care

In the past, patients had to sit through uncomfortable imaging procedures to have X-ray images taken of their teeth and jaws. These images were often cloudy and couldn’t clearly depict certain oral issues. Taking digital dental X-rays is a faster and easier process that results in instant digital images, so dentists can show patients zoomed-in and high-contrast pictures.

Higher-Quality Images

Dentists have been using X-ray machines for years to check for cavities, but they often missed minute signs of decay due to poor image quality. Fortunately, digital dental X-rays provide higher-quality images that help patients get the oral care they need sooner. Today’s digital X-ray technology can detect the beginning stages of decay, hair-thin cracks in dental enamel, and the slightest sign of bone loss.  

Lower Radiation Levels

Digital X-ray equipment emits 90 percent less radiation than traditional film X-ray machines. And while film X-ray equipment has been proven as relatively safe, digital X-ray technology is even safer for patients and the dental technicians who administer X-rays on a daily basis. 

Visit a dentistry practice that utilizes the best in dental care technology. At Northern Virginia Dental Associates, we will work to make sure your family receives the quality dental care they need. To schedule an appointment, dial (703) 451-8332. 

Which Toothpaste is Right for You?

With so many options available, determining which toothpaste is the best can be a difficult task. To learn more about using the right toothpaste for your oral health needs, check out this clip. You’ll hear from a dentist who offers tips on how to choose good quality toothpaste.

Watch to learn what ingredients to look for in toothpaste as well as how to read toothpaste labels and understand what you’re getting. The dentist also explains how to determine when you need specialty toothpaste, such as a formula that specifically helps with tarter control, teeth whitening, or dental sensitivity.

For more advice on choosing dental care products, call Northern Virginia Dental Associates at (703) 451-8332. Our dentists can help you find the best toothpaste for your needs. We’re a family and cosmetic dentistry practice serving the residents of Springfield and Burke, VA. 

Understanding Your Dental Anatomy

The tooth is a complex structure protected by one of the hardest elements within the body: dental enamel. Your teeth are designed to help you bite hard foods, assist in the formation of speech, create facial symmetry, and maintain the natural shape of the oral bones. For a better understanding of your dental anatomy and the importance of proper dental care, read the information below. 

Lower Jaw

The lower jaw, also known as the mandible, is a U-shaped bone that connects to the skull at the temporomandibular joint, in front of the ear. The mandible allows you to move your chin down, talk, and open your mouth wide.

Upper Jaw

The upper jaw is referred to as the maxilla and is comprised of several bones that become fused together shortly after birth. Unlike the lower jaw, the maxilla is part of the cranium. It forms the cheeks, the bridge of the nose, and the roof of the mouth.

Teeth

The teeth contain several layers, including enamel, dentin, and pulp. Enamel is made of calcium phosphate and other hard mineral composites and comprises the protective outer layer of the tooth. Dentin is the layer directly underneath the enamel that is made of active cells. These cells secrete a hard mineral substance which helps make the enamel strong. Beneath the dentin is the pulp chamber. Blood vessels and nerves run through the pulp, supplying the tooth with the nutrients it needs to stay healthy.  

Oral Tissues

The oral tissues include the hard palate, soft palate, tongue, and gums. The gums rest against the teeth and help protect the delicate roots from decay. If food particles get lodged between your gums and teeth and are not readily removed, you could develop tarter buildup and gum disease. If these conditions progress, the gums will eventually recede and the teeth may loosen or even fall out.

Don’t wait until you’re experiencing dental pain to get the care you need—make Northern Virginia Dental Associates a part of your dental care routine. We provide general, pediatric, and cosmetic dentistry services. To learn more, visit our website or call us at (703) 451-8332.

Understanding Children's Oral Hygiene

Keeping up with your families schedule and making sure the house is in order can be overwhelming; sometimes it may be hard to stay on top of your children’s dental care habits. However, the earlier you begin emphasizing oral care, the better your child will be a sticking to their dental hygiene routine. Look below to find helpful family dental care tips.

Begin Oral Hygiene at an Early Age

Children’s teeth begin growing during the second trimester in utero, but they may not be visible until around their first birthday. Many children are born with close to 20 fully developed primary teeth in the jaw, so get a jumpstart on protecting your baby’s teeth by wiping his or her gums with a damp washcloth after feedings. The sooner your child gets used to tooth brushing, the more likely he or she will be to practice good dental care habits. When tiny teeth start to push through the gums, switch to a soft child’s toothbrush or gauze.

Find a Quality Pediatric Dentist

The sooner your child begins visiting the dentist, the easier checkups and cleanings will be; find a quality family dentist that you and your child enjoy. Pediatric dentists are specifically trained to care for kids and teach them the importance of routine, at-home dental maintenance.

Implement Cavity Protection

Once your child’s baby teeth have all pushed through, usually around the age of three, your dentist may recommend applying a topical fluoride or dental sealant. These treatments will help strengthen the dental enamel and ward off the development of cavities.

If you’re in the market for a quality family dentist, call Northern Virginia Dental Associates at (703) 451-8332. We’ll help you teach your child how to properly care for his or her teeth. We also offer general and cosmetic dentistry services for adults so the entire family can enjoy convenient dental care.