Frequently Asked Questions

Your first visit usually includes a full review of your dental and medical history, digital X-rays if needed, a comprehensive exam, and a professional cleaning. We also take time to talk through any concerns you have and outline a treatment plan if we find anything that needs attention. Plan on your initial appointment taking between 60 and 90 minutes so we are not rushing through anything important.

We work with most major PPO dental insurance plans and our front desk team will verify your benefits before your appointment whenever possible, so you know your estimated out-of-pocket cost in advance. For patients without insurance, we offer clear, upfront pricing and can discuss payment options for larger treatment plans. Our goal is to make sure financial questions never get in the way of getting the care you need.

Most patients do well with a cleaning and checkup every six months, which allows us to catch small issues like early cavities or gum inflammation before they turn into bigger, more expensive problems. If you have a history of gum disease, frequent cavities, or certain health conditions, we may recommend visits every three to four months instead. We will always tell you exactly why we are suggesting a particular schedule for your mouth specifically.

You are far from the only one, and our team is trained to recognize and respond to dental anxiety with patience rather than rushing you through it. We explain each step before we do it, take breaks when you need them, and can adjust our pace for patients who need extra time. For patients facing more involved procedures, we can also discuss sedation options so your visit feels more manageable from start to finish.

Call our office right away at (703) 215-3980 if you are dealing with severe pain, a knocked-out tooth, a broken restoration, or facial swelling. Our team will give you guidance on managing the situation and get you in as quickly as our schedule allows, since dental emergencies rarely wait for convenient timing. In the meantime, rinse with warm salt water, apply a cold compress for swelling, and avoid chewing on the affected side.

Yes, we welcome patients of nearly all ages and many Centreville families schedule back-to-back appointments so everyone gets seen in one trip to our office. We take a gentle, age-appropriate approach with children, focusing on building comfort with dental visits early so it stays a normal, low-stress part of their routine. Our exam room and chairside approach are the same whether we are treating a parent or a child, with pacing adjusted to fit each patient.

We offer teeth whitening, porcelain veneers, bonding, and cosmetic crowns to help patients feel more confident in their smile. Most cosmetic procedures are considered elective and are not covered by dental insurance, though a portion of a treatment may sometimes qualify if it also restores function, such as a crown replacing a damaged tooth. During your consultation, we will go over which parts of your plan, if any, your insurance is likely to cover.

The easiest way is to book directly through our online scheduling link, which shows available appointment times without needing to wait on hold. You can also call us at (703) 215-3980 during office hours, Monday through Thursday. For patients in Centreville, Clifton, and nearby communities, you can also check our Areas We Served page to confirm we serve your neighborhood, or visit our About Us page to learn more about our practice before your visit.