Gainesville Dental Arts is a hometown dental practice located in Gainesville, Virginia, specializing in comprehensive dentistry for the entire family. Our practice places a premium on excellent service, quality care and patient convenience.

1.
Frequently Asked Questions
(GAINESVILLE DENTAL ARTS)
What is dentistry?
Dentistry is the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of conditions, disorders, and diseases of the
teeth, gums, mouth, and jaw. Often considered necessary for complete oral health, dentistry can have
an impact on the health of your entire body.
Who is a dentist?
A dentist is a specialist who works to diagnose, treat, and prevent oral health problems. Our dentists
have completed at least eight years of schooling, and received either a DDS (Doctor of Dental Surgery),

2. or a DMD (Doctor of Dental Medicine). If a doctor is a pediatric dentist, this means that he or she
specializes in caring for children from infancy through their teen years. A pediatric dentist has received
the proper education and training needed to work with young kids. Other specializations include:
● Endodontics (root canals)
● Oral and maxillofacial (including pathology, radiology, and surgery)
● Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics
● Periodontics (gum disease)
● Prosthodontics (implants)
What should I look for when choosing the right dentist for me?
Choosing a dentist who “clicks” with you and your family is important, and you may wish to consider
several dentists before making your final decision. During your first visit, you should be able to
determine whether the dentist is right for you. During your appointment, consider the following:
● Is the appointment schedule convenient?
● Is the office easy to get to and close by?
● Does the office appear to be clean and orderly?
● Was your medical and dental history recorded and placed in a permanent file?
● Does the dentist explain techniques for good oral health?
● Is information about cost presented to you before treatment is scheduled?
● Is your dentist a member of the ADA (American Dental Association)?
At What Age Should I Start Taking My Child to See the Dentist?
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends that children first see a dentist as
early as six-months-old and no later than one-year-old. During this time, your child's baby teeth will be
coming in and your dentist can examine the health of your child's first few teeth. After the first visit, be
sure to schedule regular checkups every six months.
My teeth feel fine; do I still need to see a dentist?
Your teeth may feel fine, but it’s still important to see a dentist regularly because problems can exist
without your knowing. Your smile’s appearance is important, and we can help keep your smile healthy
and looking beautiful.
How long will treatment take?
This depends on your age and your bite problem. Most people need to wear their brace for about
12-15 months, but you can make a difference by looking after and wearing your braces properly.

3. How often should I have a dental exam and cleaning?
You should have your teeth checked and cleaned at least twice a year, though your dentist or dental
hygienist may recommend more frequent visits.
Regular dental exams and cleaning visits are essential in preventing dental problems and maintaining
the health of your teeth and gums. At these visits, your teeth are cleaned and checked for cavities.
Additionally, there are many other things that are checked and monitored to help detect, prevent, and
maintain your dental health.
We are committed to providing you with the best possible care, and to do so will require regular
check-ups and cleanings. For more information on exam and checkup, click here.
With so many advances in dentistry, you no longer have to settle for stained, chipped, missing, or
misshapen teeth.
Today’s dentists offer many treatment choices that can help you smile with confidence, including:
● Professional teeth whitening
● Fillings that mimic the appearance of natural teeth
● Tooth replacement and full smile makeovers
Why is visiting the dentist so important?
Visiting the dentist regularly will not only help keep your teeth and mouth healthy, but will also help
keep the rest of your body healthy. Dental care is important because it:
● Helps prevent tooth decay
● Protects against periodontal (gum) disease, which can lead to tooth and bone loss
● Prevents bad breath; brushing, flossing, and seeing a dentist regularly will help reduce the
amount of bacteria in your mouth that causes bad breath
● Gives you a more attractive smile and increases your self-confidence
● Helps keep teeth looking bright by preventing them from becoming stained by food, drinks,
and tobacco
● Strengthens your teeth so you can enjoy healthy, beautiful smiles for the rest of your life!
Why should I go to the dentist regularly? (Crisis treatment vs. preventive
treatment)
Many people do not see a dentist on a regular basis. They go only when they have a problem. We call
this “crisis treatment” as opposed to “preventive treatment.” While these patients may feel they are
saving money, it usually ends up costing much more in both dollars and time. The reason for this is
that most dental problems do not have any symptoms until they reach the advanced stages of the
disease process. A simple example is tooth decay. We often hear, “Nothing hurts…I don’t have any
problems.” But tooth decay does not hurt! Until, that is, it gets close to the nerve of the tooth. By that

4. time, root canal treatment followed by a post, buildup, and crown are often necessary, instead of the
filling which could have been placed several years earlier when the cavity was just beginning to form.
Your dentist can usually detect a cavity 3-4 years before it develops any symptoms. It is not uncommon
to see a patient with a huge cavity and who has never felt a thing! This is why regular checkups are
important.
What is a cavity?
A cavity is a small hole that forms inside the tooth because of tooth decay. Cavities form when plaque
buildup on the outside of the tooth combines with sugars and starches in the food you eat. This
produces an acid that can eat away the enamel on your tooth.
If a cavity is left untreated, it can lead to more serious oral health problems. Cavities can be prevented
by remembering to brush your teeth at least two times a day and floss between teeth at least once.
What is a filling?
A filling is a synthetic material that a dentist uses to fill a cavity after all the tooth decay has been
removed. Fillings do not generally hurt because the dentist will numb your mouth with an anesthetic.
Fillings are made from a variety of different materials, including composites, gold, or ceramic. If you
need a filling, be sure to talk to us about what type is best for you and your teeth.
What are cavity-fighting sealants?
The American Dental Association points out sealants are an effective weapon in the arsenal against
tooth decay. Sealants are a thin coating painted on chewing surfaces of molars and premolars. Dental
sealants act as a barrier, protecting the teeth against decay-causing bacteria.
Sealants have proven effective with both adults and children, but are most commonly used with
children. Despite the fact that sealants are about half the cost of fillings, only a small percentage of
school-aged children have sealants on their permanent teeth.
Ask your dentist whether sealants are a good choice for you or your children.
What is gum disease?
Also known as periodontal disease, gum disease is mostly caused by plaque and bacteria buildup that
is not treated in its early stage. Other causes of periodontal disease include tobacco use, teeth
grinding, some medications, and genetics.
Gingivitis is the beginning stage of gum disease. If detected, it is treatable. Gingivitis left untreated may
turn into gum disease. Advanced gum disease will lead to tooth and bone loss, and is a permanent
condition.

5. Brushing your teeth regularly and visiting the dentist every six months will help prevent gingivitis and
more severe cases of periodontal disease. Common signs of gum disease:
● Red, irritated, bleeding, or swollen gums
● Chronic bad breath
● Loose teeth, or loss of teeth
● Extreme tooth sensitivity
● Receding gum line
● Abscessed teeth
Treatment of early periodontal disease can be performed in-office. However, advanced stages may
require surgery. Periodontal disease can be prevented and treated successfully by seeing your dentist
and dental hygienist regularly and following recommended care plans.
What should I do about bleeding gums?
People often respond to bleeding gums with the wrong method of treatment. Usually, gums that bleed
are a symptom of the onset of periodontal disease or gingivitis. But often, people stop brushing
frequently and effectively because it may be painful or it may cause the gums to bleed again. Instead,
when gums are inflamed, brushing often and effectively is imperative. More importantly, you should
see your dentist to have a periodontal screening and recording performed in order to determine the
level of disease present and the best treatment course to pursue.
It is also worth noting that chronic dental pain and discomfort are obvious signs of a problem.
Over-the-counter drugs may provide some temporary relief. These medications usually only mask the
existence of a problem and should be taken on a temporary basis.
It is important to see your dentist as soon as possible if your gums begin to bleed.
Why does the dentist take X-rays?
Many diseases of the teeth and surrounding tissues cannot be seen when your dentist examines your
mouth. An X-ray examination may reveal:
● small areas of decay between the teeth or below existing restorations (fillings)
● infections in the bone
● periodontal (gum) disease
● abscesses or cysts
● developmental abnormalities
● some types of tumors
Finding and treating dental problems at an early stage can save time, money and often unnecessary
discomfort. Dental radiographs can detect damage to oral structures not visible during a regular exam.
If you have a hidden tumor, radiographs may even help save your life. Your dentist will evaluate your

6. need for radiographs based on the conditions present in your mouth. The schedule for radiographs
can vary with age, risk for disease or for evaluation of growth and development. There are many
benefits to having dental radiographs taken. Any additional questions or concerns should be discussed
with your dentist.
Fluoride is a mineral that occurs naturally in many foods and in water. Some natural sources of
fluoride are brewed tea, canned fish, cooked kale and spinach, apples, and skim milk. Some city water
contains fluoride, so by drinking tap water you will acquire fluoride. If your drinking water does not
have fluoride, supplements are available. The lack of exposure to fluoride places individuals of any age
at risk for dental decay. Fluoride is important to dental health because it helps prevent tooth decay by
making the enamel outer portion of the tooth more resistant to acid attacks from plaque bacteria in
the mouth.
Studies have shown that children who consumed fluoridated water from birth had less dental decay.
Fluoride can reverse early decay and help prevent osteoporosis, a disease that causes degenerative
bone loss. Talk to your dentist or dental hygienist about whether you’re getting the daily amount of
fluoride you need.
Why should I use a Mouth Guard?
A Mouth Guard can prevent injuries to your face and teeth. Most people benefit from wearing a Mouth
Guard when playing any sport. You should wear one whether you are playing professionally or just on
weekends. Do what you can to preserve your smile and your health. The best Mouth Guards are
custom-fitted by your dentist. This is especially important if you wear braces or fixed bridgework.
Commercial, ready-made Mouth Guard can be purchased at most sporting goods stores. They are
relatively inexpensive but they are also less effective. In either case, rinse your Mouth Guard with water
or mouthwash after each use. With proper care, it should last for several months. Ask your dentist
which kind of Mouthguard you should use.
Will a visit to the dentists hurt?
Modern dentistry has progressed hugely in the area of pain relief and latest technology equipment. We
understand people have a real phobia about the sounds, smells and feelings of dental visits from their
childhood, and strive to change perceptions allowing you to enjoy the experience and the patient care
at Gainesville Dental Arts.
Do whitening toothpastes work?
Commercial whitening toothpastes vary greatly in their ability to whiten teeth. They work by removing
surface stains from the teeth with the use of mild abrasives. However, unlike professional whitening,
some whitening toothpastes do not alter the intrinsic color of the teeth. Toothpastes that are effective

7. in removing stains can also destroy tooth enamel in the process. These toothpastes use harsh
abrasives. With repeated use, harsh abrasives begin to damage tooth enamel and can contribute to
increased tooth sensitivity. If you would like to try a whitening toothpaste, consult with your dentist
first.
Does whitening damage the teeth?
It is very important that whitening is done by a registered dentist as this will ensure that it is a safe
process. At Gainesville Dental Arts we offer either home bleaching or in-chair whitening and your
dentist will explain both processes to you in detail.
How can I prevent cavities?
You can certainly minimize the number of cavities you get. Always spend two to three minutes
brushing your teeth. It takes that long to get rid of the bacteria which destroy tooth enamel. Do not
brush too hard. It takes very little pressure to remove bacteria and plaque. Floss at least once a day. It
is the only way to get bacteria from between your teeth.
Watch the sugar you eat. There is sugar in candy, fruits, crackers and chips. These are the foods that
the bacteria in your mouth like best. Be mindful of foods like raisins and peanut butter that stick to
your teeth. They can provide a constant supply for the bacteria eating into your teeth. Try to minimize
the times during the day when sweet items are eaten and clean your teeth afterwards.
If you cannot brush after a meal, rinse your mouth with water—which can help to remove food from
your teeth. Chewing sugarless gum after a meal can also help. Chewing stimulates the flow of saliva
which acts as a natural plaque-fighting substance.
Do not forget your regular dental visits. Good dental habits will go a long way toward a no-cavity visit.
How can I take care of my teeth between dental checkups?
● ALWAYS remember to brush your teeth at least two times a day, and floss at least once!
● Make sure to use toothpaste that contains fluoride, and ask us if you need a fluoride rinse. This
will help prevent cavities.
● Avoid foods with a lot of sugar (which increases the amount of bacteria that grows in your
mouth, and causes more plaque and potential cavities), and avoid tobacco (which can stain
your teeth, cause gum disease, and eventually lead to oral cancer).
● Don’t be afraid to brush your tongue! By brushing your tongue, you will remove food particles
and reduce the amount of plaque-causing bacteria. Tongue brushing also helps keep your
breath fresh.

8. ● Be sure to schedule your routine checkup. It is recommended that you visit our office every six
months.
How can I tell if I have Periodontitis and/or Gingivitis?
Four out of five people have periodontal disease and don’t know it! Most people are not aware of it
because the disease is usually painless in the early stages. Unlike tooth decay, which often causes
discomfort, it is possible to have periodontal disease without noticeable symptoms. Having regular
dental check-ups and periodontal examinations are very important and will help detect if periodontal
problems exist.
What can I do about sensitive teeth?
Sensitivity toothpaste, which contains strontium chloride or potassium nitrate are very effective in
treating sensitive teeth. After a few weeks of use you may notice a decrease in sensitivity. Highly acidic
foods such as oranges, grapefruits and lemons, as well as tea and soda can increase tooth sensitivity,
and work against any sensitivity toothpaste. If you do not get relief by brushing gently and using a
desensitizing toothpaste, see your dentist. There are special compounds that can be applied in office
to the roots of your tooth to reduce—if not eliminate—the sensitivity. High-fluoride containing home
care products can also be recommended to help reduce tooth sensitivity.
Ask the friendly staff at Gainesville Dental Arts for more information on sensitive teeth.
How long will the results of teeth whitening last?
Like other investments, if you whiten your teeth, the length of time you can expect it to last will vary. If
you smoke, drink red wine or coffee, or consume other acid-containing foods, your bright smile may
begin to yellow more quickly than you expect. In general, a teeth whitening procedure can last up to a
few years. And even though the results can fade, occasional touch-ups can be done to regain luster.
Ask the experienced staff at Gainesville Dental Arts about the long-term benefits of teeth whitening.
How often should I brush and floss?
Brushing and flossing help control the plaque and bacteria that cause dental disease. Plaque is a film
of food debris, bacteria, and saliva that sticks to the teeth and gums. The bacteria in plaque convert
certain food particles into acids that cause tooth decay. Also, if plaque is not removed, it turns into
calculus (tartar).

9. If plaque and calculus are not removed, they begin to destroy the gums and bone, causing periodontal
(gum) disease. Plaque formation and growth is continuous and can only be controlled by regular
brushing, flossing, and the use of other dental aids.
Brushing
Brush your teeth at least twice a day (especially before going to bed at night) with an ADA-approved
soft bristle brush and toothpaste.
● Brush at a 45-degree angle to the gums, gently using a small, circular motion, ensuring that you
always feel the bristles on the gums.
● Brush the outer, inner and biting surfaces of each tooth.
● Use the tip of the brush head to clean the inside front teeth.
● Brush your tongue to remove bacteria and freshen your breath.
Electric toothbrushes are also recommended. They are easy to use and can remove plaque efficiently.
Simply place the bristles of the electric brush on your gums and teeth and allow the brush to do its job,
several teeth at a time.
Flossing
Daily flossing is the best way to clean between the teeth and under the gum line. Flossing not only
helps clean these spaces, it disrupts plaque colonies from building up, preventing damage to the gums,
teeth and bone.
● Take 12-16 inches of dental floss and wrap it around your middle fingers, leaving about 2
inches of floss between the hands.
● Using your thumbs and forefingers to guide the floss, gently insert the floss between teeth
using a sawing motion.
● Curve the floss into a “C” shape around each tooth and under the gum line. Gently move the
floss up and down, cleaning the side of each tooth.
Floss holders are available if you have difficulty using conventional floss.
Rinsing
It is important to rinse your mouth with water after brushing, and also after meals if you are unable to
brush. If you are using an over-the-counter product for rinsing, it’s a good idea to consult with your
dentist or dental hygienist on its appropriateness for you.
How to floss properly?
● Take 12-16 inches of dental floss and wrap it around your middle fingers, leaving about 2
inches of floss between the hands.

10. ● Using your thumbs and forefingers to guide the floss, gently insert the floss between teeth
using a sawing motion.
● Curve the floss into a “C” shape around each tooth and under the gumline. Gently move the
floss up and down, cleaning the sides of each tooth.
● Floss holders are recommended if you have difficulty using conventional floss. Daily flossing
will help you keep a healthy, beautiful smile for life!
Is dental floss important?
Brushing your teeth removes food particles, plaque and bacteria from all tooth surfaces, except in
between the teeth. Unfortunately, our toothbrush can’t reach these areas that are highly susceptible to
decay and periodontal (gum) disease.
Daily flossing is the best way to clean between the teeth and under the gumline. Flossing not only
helps clean these spaces, it disrupts plaque colonies from building up, preventing damage to the gums,
teeth and bone. Plaque is a sticky, almost invisible film that forms on the teeth. It is a growing colony of
living bacteria, food debris, and saliva.
The bacteria produce toxins (acids) that cause cavities and irritate and inflame the gums. Also, when
plaque is not removed above and below the gumline, it hardens and turns into calculus (tartar). This
will further irritate and inflame the gums and also slowly destroy the bone. This is the beginning of
periodontal disease.
Why should I floss, isn’t brushing enough?
You should floss to reduce the number of bacteria in your mouth. There are millions of these
microscopic creatures feeding on food particles left on your teeth. These bacteria live in plaque which
can be removed by flossing. Brushing your teeth gets rid of some of the bacteria in your mouth.
Flossing gets rid of the bacteria your toothbrush can’t get to. That’s the bacteria hiding in the tiny
spaces between your teeth. Brushing without flossing is like washing only half your face. The other half
remains dirty.
If you do not floss, you allow plaque to remain between your teeth. Eventually it hardens into tartar.
Plaque can be removed by brushing. Only your dentist can remove tartar.
Ask your dentist to show you the proper way to floss. You will both notice the difference at your next
cleaning appointment.
What can I do about bad breath?
Bad breath (halitosis) can be an unpleasant and embarrassing condition. Many of us may not realize
that we have bad breath, but everyone has it from time to time, especially in the morning. There are

11. various reasons one may have bad breath, but in healthy people, the major reason is due to microbial
deposits on the tongue, especially the back of the tongue. Some studies have shown that simply
brushing the tongue reduces bad breath by as much as 70 percent!
What can I do to prevent bad breath?
● Practice good oral hygiene – Brush at least twice a day with an ADA-approved fluoride
toothpaste and toothbrush. Floss daily to remove food debris and plaque from in between the
teeth and under the gumline. Brush or use a tongue scraper to clean the tongue and reach the
back areas.
● Replace your toothbrush every 2 to 3 months. If you wear dentures or removable bridges,
clean them thoroughly and place them back in your mouth in the morning.
● See your dentist regularly – Get a check-up and cleaning at least twice a year. If you have or
have had periodontal disease, your dentist will recommend more frequent visits.
● Stop smoking/chewing tobacco – Ask your dentist what they recommend to help break the
habit.
● Drink water frequently – Water will help keep your mouth moist and wash away bacteria.
● Use mouthwash/rinses – Some over-the-counter products only provide a temporary solution to
mask unpleasant mouth odor. Ask your dentist about antiseptic rinses that not only alleviate
bad breath, but also kill the germs that cause the problem.
In most cases, your dentist can treat the cause of bad breath. If it is determined that your mouth is
healthy, but bad breath is persistent, your dentist may refer you to your physician to determine the
cause of the odor and an appropriate treatment plan.
What causes bad breath?
● Morning time – Saliva flow almost stops during sleep and its reduced cleansing action allows
bacteria to grow, causing bad breath.
● Certain foods – Garlic, onions, etc. Foods containing odor-causing compounds enter the blood
stream; they are transferred to the lungs, where they are exhaled.
● Poor oral hygiene habits – Food particles remaining in the mouth promote bacterial growth.
● Periodontal (gum) disease – Colonies of bacteria and food debris residing under inflamed
gums.
● Dental cavities and improperly fitted dental appliances – May also contribute to bad breath.
● Dry mouth (Xerostomia) – May be caused by certain medications, salivary gland problems, or
continuous mouth breathing.
● Tobacco products – Dry the mouth, causing bad breath.
● Dieting – Certain chemicals called ketones are released in the breath as the body burns fat.
● Dehydration, hunger, and missed meals – Drinking water and chewing food increases saliva
flow and washes bacteria away.

12. ● Certain medical conditions and illnesses – Diabetes, liver and kidney problems, chronic sinus
infections, bronchitis, and pneumonia are several conditions that may contribute to bad
breath.
● Keeping a record of what you eat may help identify the cause of bad breath. Also, review your
current medications, recent surgeries, or illnesses with you dentist.
What causes morning breath?
When you are asleep, saliva production in your mouth decreases. Since saliva is the mouth’s natural
mouthwash, most people experience morning breath. Bacteria found on teeth, in the crevices and on
the taste buds of the tongue, break down the food particles, which produce sulfur compounds. It is
actually these sulfur compounds which give our breath a bad odor. During waking hours, saliva helps
to wash away bacteria and food particles. Saliva also helps to dissolve the foul smelling sulfur
compounds.
Chronic, long-term mouth odor can be a sign of more serious illness. See your dentist if this is a
concern.
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