Frequently Asked Questions
Bring Us Your Burning Dental Questions!
General Dentistry FAQs
At Embrace Family Smiles, our goal is to make dental care simple, comfortable, and easy to understand. Whether you’re new to our office or just have a few questions about your treatment options, our team is here to help. Below, we’ve answered some of the most common questions about general dentistry to help you feel confident about your oral health care.
What is a General Dentist?
A General Dentist is a primary dental care provider responsible for diagnosing and treating oral health issues. They offer preventive care and education to help maintain good oral health.
What services does a General Dentist provide?
General Dentists provide a wide range of services, including preventive treatments (cleanings, fluoride treatments), restorative services (fillings, crowns), cosmetic procedures (teeth whitening, veneers), and even health-related treatments (sleep apnea, nutrition counseling).
How often should I visit a General Dentist?
For optimal oral health, it’s recommended to schedule regular dental check-ups every six months. However, the dentist may suggest more frequent visits depending on your oral health condition.
Why is it important to have regular dental check-ups?
Regular dental check-ups allow your dentist to detect problems early when they’re most treatable. Routine visits can prevent many oral health issues from developing in the first place.
What is a dental cleaning and why is it important?
A dental cleaning is a professional cleaning you receive from a dentist or dental hygienist. Regular dental cleanings help prevent cavities, gum disease, and tooth loss while making your smile brighter and your breath fresher.
How can I prevent cavities and gum disease?
Regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups are the best ways to prevent cavities and gum disease. Your dentist can provide additional advice tailored to your specific oral health needs.
What’s the difference between general dentistry and specialty dentistry?
General dentistry focuses on the overall maintenance of oral health through preventive, diagnostic, and restorative care. A general dentist is your primary dental care provider — the professional you’ll see for routine cleanings, exams, fillings, and early detection of problems. Specialty dentistry, on the other hand, refers to focused areas of practice like orthodontics, pediatric dentistry, endodontics (root canals), and periodontics (gum treatment). At Embrace Family Smiles, our general dentistry services are the foundation of lifelong oral health.
Can general dentists treat children and adults?
Yes! Most general dentists are trained to treat patients of all ages. At Embrace Family Smiles, we proudly care for both children and adults, making it easier for families to stay on top of their dental needs. Our team understands how oral health needs change at different stages of life and adapts treatment accordingly. From a child’s first cleaning to adult restorative care, we provide gentle, effective dental services for the entire family.
What should I expect at a new patient exam?
During your first visit, your Virginia dentist will conduct a comprehensive exam to assess the health of your teeth, gums, and jaw. This typically includes a review of your medical and dental history, X-rays, an oral cancer screening, and a thorough cleaning. If any concerns are found, such as tooth decay or gum inflammation, we’ll walk you through your treatment options and create a care plan tailored to your needs.
Is general dentistry covered by insurance?
Many general dentistry services, like exams, cleanings, and basic fillings, are covered at least in part by most dental insurance plans. Coverage may vary depending on your provider and plan type. Our team at Embrace Family Smiles will help you understand your benefits and work with you to make treatment as affordable as possible. If you don’t have insurance, we also offer flexible payment options for out-of-pocket care.
What if I haven’t been to the dentist in years?
You’re not alone, and it’s never too late to get back on track. Whether it’s been one year or ten, our team is here to support you without judgment. We’ll start with a gentle, thorough exam to evaluate your current oral health, answer any questions you have, and develop a personalized treatment plan. Taking that first step is the hardest part, but your Virginia dentist is here to make it as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Still have questions?
Contact our team at Embrace Family Smiles in Woodbridge, Dale City, or Burke to learn more about general dentistry or to schedule your visit. We’re here to make your dental care easy, approachable, and effective every step of the way.
