Frequently Asked Questions
Many of the most common questions our patients ask are answered in this section. If you have a question that is not answered here, please feel free to contact us online or call the office during normal business hours.
How often should I see a dentist?
If you are experiencing a dental emergency, please call our offices during regular business hours. If your emergency is after office hours or weekends, please call our emergency cell phone number at 571-575-5790 and a trained staff member will respond to your call. Please do not submit a “Request Appointment” link on the website. Patients should call the office 703-640-1000 and follow the steps for offices and reaching the applicable staff specialty member.
What do I do if I have a dental emergency?
Please call our office as soon as you determine that you have a dental emergency. If you have a dental emergency during regular business hours, we will be glad to work you into our schedule. After hours, over the weekend and during holidays, please call our office for the doctor’s emergency contact number.
What kind of toothbrush should I use?
Adults should use a small-to-medium size toothbrush with soft-to-medium bristles. The head of the brush needs to be small enough to brush all areas of the mouth thoroughly, specifically the back of the mouth, which can be hard to reach. Children should use small toothbrushes with soft bristles. People with sensitive teeth can benefit from using gentle, soft bristled toothbrushes.
How often should I replace my toothbrush?
The American Dental Association recommends that you replace your brush every 3 to 4 months. With each use, the bristles become worn and cleaning effectiveness decreases. Depending on your oral health, you may need to replace your brush sooner. Typically, children toothbrushes need to be replaced more regularly than adults.
Is a powered toothbrush more effective than a manual toothbrush?
Generally, manual toothbrushes are just as effective as powered toothbrushes. Children may find brushing with a powered toothbrush more exciting. If you have difficulty using a manual toothbrush, a powered toothbrush may be much more comfortable and easier to use.
Should I brush or floss first?
As long as you brush and floss thoroughly, it does not matter if you brush then floss or floss then brush. However, flossing before brushing enables the fluoride in your toothpaste to better reach the areas between the teeth.
Is one type of toothpaste better than the others?
No. However, we recommend you use a toothpaste that contains fluoride and carries the ADA Seal of Acceptance, which means it has been assessed for safety and effectiveness. Studies consistently show that fluoride helps strengthen and rebuild tooth structure, and helps prevent dental decay.
Are payment plans available for my dental treatment?
Yes. We accept most major credit cards and many types of dental insurance. We will process your insurance claim for you upon receipt of your co-payment.
During your first visit, we will address the following questions that cover the basics of orthodontic treatment. We encourage you to ask questions as well.
- Is there a condition that orthodontics can address?
- Is treatment needed now or should treatment be delayed until appropriate growth, tooth eruption or other factors have occurred?
- What treatment procedures will be used to correct the problem?
- Do any permanent teeth need to be removed?
- How long will treatment take?
- How much will it cost?
- What are my payment options?
