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The following are some of the questions we get asked the most. If you need more information about anything you read below, or if you have any other questions, please feel free to ask. We're here to help in any way we can.
How does the doctor keep up-to-date on all of the current techniques and materials?
Drs. Calvano and LaGrua subscribe to the latest industry journals to keep informed about research and development in the dental industry. They also make time for continuing education, and always surpass the requirements of the state of Virginia. As a team and as individuals, we believe it is our responsibility to our patients to be familiar with the latest techniques and materials available.
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What do I do if I have an emergency when the office is closed?
For dental emergencies after hours, please contact our office and follow the
directions given on the office voicemail message. Someone will return a
call to you as soon as possible. For dental emergencies during regular
businees hours, please contact our Verona dental office immediately so that our office
staff can help you determine the appropriate plan of action.
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What different payment options do you provide?
We accept cash, personal checks, Visa and MasterCard and Discover. In addition
our office offers financing through Care Credit
with an interest free option up to
12 months for approved applicants. For our patients with dental insurance all
estimated co-payments and deductibles are due at the time of service.
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How do I know when it is time to come in for a checkup?
A typical healthy adult benefits from
a professional cleaning and check up every six months. While twice
daily brushing and flossing go a long way towards maintaining a healthy
mouth, only a trained professional can check for and remove plaque
that has hardened into tartar, and examine teeth for cracks or other
types of damage that can, if left untreated, lead to more serious
problems requiring more complicated treatments. And, only a trained
professional can examine your teeth and gums for signs of gum disease,
a condition that can ultimately lead to tooth loss if left untreated.
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At what age
should my children first see a dentist?
You may be surprised to know that
children should have their first dental visit about 6 months after
their primary teeth have erupted, or generally around their first
birthday. During this first visit we will carefully examine each
tooth to look for any current or future problems. This is also an
excellent way to reinforce the importance of healthy habits for teeth
and presents the dental office as a positive, non-threatening experience.
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What precautions do you take to ensure patient safety?
Our entire practice team is well versed
in state-of-the-art sterilization techniques designed to ensure patient
safety. In addition to wearing gloves and facemasks to prevent passing
germs, we have a specialized sterilization center and water filtration
system that guarantees a fresh water source for each patient.
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My gums bleed after I brush. Is this something to be concerned about?
While it is certainly not desirable
to have bleeding gums following brushing, the condition may or may
not require attention, depending on the source of the problem. Bleeding
gums can be caused by any of the following: improper, rough, 'scrubbing' instead
of gentle, circular brushing motions; using a hard-bristled tooth
brush instead of a soft one; plaque and/or tartar build-up below
the gum line; or gum sensitivity due to gingivitis or periodontal
disease. If this problem persists every time you brush, contact our
office to set up an evaluation appointment.
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Do I have to floss every day? Is it really that important?
A little regular flossing
goes a long way, and is truly critical for your overall oral health.
It loosens food particles in tight spaces your toothbrush cannot
reach; it gets rid of plaque build-up toothbrushes alone cannot remove;
and it exercises your gum tissues. All of these things are necessary
to avoid gum disease and the potential for resulting tooth loss.
So, just think of daily flossing as an excellent investment in the
future of your teeth
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My child has had an accident and his/her tooth has been entirely knocked out. What do I do?
If there is no immediate medical emergency
such as uncontrolled bleeding, unconsciousness, or other bodily injury,
please contact us immediately so our office staff can help you determine
the safest and most appropriate plan of action.
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Crowns, veneers, onlays, inlays and partials.where can I learn more about these procedures?
 You can find more in-depth information about each of these devices by visiting the ADA. Below is a brief description of each:
Crowns: designed to fit snugly and function as normal teeth,
crowns are used on cracked, broken, decayed, or worn teeth and are
designed to protect those teeth from further damage as well as preserve
your jaw's correct natural alignment
Porcelain Veneers: These are thin sheets of ceramic that bond directly
to the front surfaces of teeth. They are highly resistant to coffee,
tea or other staining agents and mostly closely resemble healthy,
white tooth enamel.
Onlays: Inlays and onlays are strong, attractive, and safe
alternatives to metal fillings. Onlays are used for large restorations.
They restore the area inside the cusp and extend over one or more
sides of the tooth. Because of their size they are usually made of
porcelain.
Inlays: These are used to restore the area of tooth inside
the cusps. Inlays are a conservative tooth restoration which means
they require far less drilling and preparation of the tooth than
a metal filling. Inlays are usually made of porcelain or composite
resin, making them "invisible" in your smile.
Partials: Removable partial dentures usually consist of replacement
teeth attached to pink or gum-colored plastic bases that are connected
by metal framework. Partial dentures attach to your natural teeth
with metal clasps or devices called precision attachments. Precision
attachments are generally more esthetic than metal clasps and they
are nearly invisible.
Dental Implants: By imitating an entire natural tooth,
from the root up, dental implants offer a prosthetic that closely mimics
nature. The result? Dental implant patients enjoy restored function,
which allows a healthy diet of hard-to-chew foods. Speech may also
improve. Strong and secure, your new smile will boost your confidence,
enhance your appearance, and improve your quality of life. Learn More...
Invisalign: If you want straighter teeth without bulky
metal braces, consider Invisalign. A series of clear, removable aligners
will reposition your teeth without the hassle and pain of traditional
orthodontia. Straighter teeth can lead to: healthier gums, easier
cleanings, improved chewing and speech, decreased risk of dental
trauma and more beautiful smiles. Start smiling more! Learn more...
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