South Riding Family Dentistry

Inlays and Onlays

Inlays and onlays are dental restoration options used when filling cavities. An inlay is placed in the depression in the center of a tooth, between the points or cusps. An onlay is a restoration that covers one or more cusps. In cases where a large filling is needed, these options provide a natural-looking tooth surface and restore normal function. They can be used in some cases to avoid replacing the entire outer tooth structure with a crown. Inlays and onlays can replace old fillings for aesthetic or functional purposes. Both options are made from tooth-colored porcelain that is shaded to match your natural tooth color. The result is a seamless restoration that is completely invisible and strong enough to withstand chewing and biting forces. Inlays and onlays will last for many years with proper care.

If you’re looking to restore or enhance the look of your smile, check with one of the experienced cosmetic dentists at South Riding Family Dentistry. We proudly serve South Riding, Chantilly, Herndon, and beyond with quality dental services including cosmetic dentistry, pediatric dentistry, and periodontal care. You can learn more about inlays, onlays, fillings, and crowns on our website. 

Steps Involved In a Professional Dental Cleaning

Regular cleanings are a key element of preventive dental care. During a cleaning, your dentist will check for signs of dental problems as well as remove plaque and tartar for a sparkling and healthy smile. You’ll also have the chance to discuss any concerns or questions you may have to get all the information you need to maintain the health of your mouth.

Examination
The first step in a professional dental cleaning is an examination of your mouth. If you are a new patient or your dentist believes it is necessary, dental X-rays may be performed. A visual and tactile inspection of your teeth, gums, and the soft tissues of your mouth checks for problems such as tooth decay, gum disease, and oral cancer. Your dentist will discuss any symptoms you may have, as well as suggest treatment if it is needed.

Cleaning
After your examination, your teeth will be cleaned by a dentist or dental assistant. This involves the use of special dental tools to remove plaque and calculus, which is the hardened form of plaque that cannot be removed via regular brushing. After your teeth have been cleaned, they will also be polished to remove surface stains and ensure they look their best. Your dentist may also include a fluoride treatment with your cleaning. A fluoride gel is applied to your teeth and either left to dry or cleaned off after a set amount of time.

Demonstration
During your visit, your dentist or hygienist will demonstrate proper brushing and flossing techniques to ensure you maintain your smile while at home. You’ll also have a chance to ask any questions you may have about which products are best for you and how to use them.

South Riding Family Dentistry of VA provides cleanings and other dental care for children and adults. We also provide special care options for anxious patients to ensure you feel safe and comfortable during dental cleanings and treatments. Visit our website or call (888) 802-1571 to discover what our family dentists can do for you today! 

The Importance of Routine Dental Check-Ups

Everyday steps such as brushing, flossing, and choosing healthy meals are important to your dental health. However, even if you follow this routine, it’s important to visit your dentist regularly for checkups.

Dental checkups are thorough examinations of your teeth, gums, tongue, and jaws. Your dentist will check for signs of dental damage or disease which may not be readily visible to you. Cavities, oral cancer, and gum disease can all negatively affect your overall health, so it’s essential that you receive regular screenings and care to keep your teeth healthy and strong for life.

Schedule your next dental checkup at South Riding Family Dentistry today! Call our office at(888) 802-1571 to ask about our services, including preventive care and dentistry for anxious patients. Visit our website for more information about maintaining your dental health. 

Signs That You May Be Hurting Your Teeth While You Sleep

Teeth grinding can occur while you are asleep, placing constant pressure on your teeth and jaws and damaging your dental health. In most cases, teeth grinding is diagnosed indirectly via the symptoms it causes. Discuss any tooth, jaw, or facial pain you may experience with your family dentist, who can check for other signs of bruxism and help you protect your dental health.

Dental Symptoms of Teeth Grinding
Most signs of teeth grinding manifest as dental problems that may be recognized by your dentist. Tooth sensitivity is often caused by cracks or wear in the enamel of your teeth. Cracked enamel can also lead to an increased likelihood of developing cavities and tooth root infections. You may notice that your teeth appear shorter or worn down over time as tooth enamel is ground away. In some cases, damage to the tissues of your cheeks or indentations on your tongue may be visible in the morning. Jaw pain is a frequent symptom of teeth grinding; your jaws may hurt or feel sore and tired upon waking in the morning.

Other Symptoms of Teeth Grinding
The pressure caused by teeth grinding can affect other aspects of your head and face as well. Common non-dental symptoms of teeth grinding include headaches and earaches that do not have an obvious medical cause. You may also experience chronic facial pain, particularly in the lower areas and sides of your face. In some cases, teeth grinding causes audible noise that your sleeping partner may notice.

At South Riding Family Dentistry, our dentists can provide you with a personalized sleep appliance to prevent teeth grinding and pain. To schedule your dental exam, call our South Riding office today at (888) 802-1571. You’ll find more information about our full range of general and cosmetic dental services in VA when you click through our website. 

Dental-Friendly Snacks

Your diet and your dental health are closely linked. Choosing the right snacks reduces your risk of cavities while maintaining healthy teeth and gums from the inside out. Fresh, crunchy fruits and veggies such as apples, carrots, and celery provide plenty of minerals and vitamins for teeth and gums. Additionally, these fibrous foods act as natural toothbrushes to remove plaque as you eat them. Citrus fruits contain vitamin C for healthy gums to help prevent gum disease, a prevalent dental problem among American adults. Other dental-friendly snacks include sources of calcium such as low-fat yogurts, cheeses, and milk. Calcium strengthens your teeth and protects them against decay. When looking to quench your thirst, drink water rather than soda, juice, or sports drinks. Water flushes away food particles without added sugars or acids that can damage tooth enamel and cause dental problems.

Are you interested in hearing more about choosing healthy snacks for a dazzling smile? Ask your dentist at South Riding Family Dentistry for more information about diet and dental health or to get some tasty snack ideas. Check out our website or contact our office at (888) 802-1571 today!