Teeth Whitening Dentistry Purcellville VA

I'm not happy with the stains on my teeth. How can I safely whiten them?

There are three ways that you can whiten your teeth:

• In-office bleaching
• At-home bleaching
• Whitening toothpastes

The first thing you should do before whitening your teeth is talk to your dentist. He or she will be able to help you decide the best option for you. Whiteners will not fix all kinds of stains. Also, if you have bonding or tooth-colored fillings, these will not be affected by whiteners and they may stand out if you whiten your teeth. Remember that a using a whitener does not make your mouth healthier.

In-office bleaching.
This kind of whitening, called "chairside bleaching," is done in your dentist's office. It may require more than one office visit. Each visit may take from 30 minutes to one hour. During chairside bleaching, the dentist puts a whitener on the teeth and uses a special light to make the whitener work. Lasers are sometimes used during tooth whitening to make the whitening agent work better.

At-home bleaching.
There are a few different products that can be used to whiten teeth at home. Some come from your dentist, and others can be bought over-the-counter. These contain peroxide(s), which bleach the tooth enamel. Most come in a gel and are placed in a mouth guard or tray that fits inside your mouth. They help many types of staining. Only the dentist-dispensed solutions have the American Dental Association (ADA) seal.

Other over-the-counter whitening products include whitening strips, paint-on products, gels, and trays. They have a low amount of peroxide. For better results, have a cleaning at the dentist before you use these products. These gels and trays do not have the ADA seal.

Whitening toothpastes.
All toothpastes help remove surface stains through mild abrasives. "Whitening" toothpastes that have the ADA seal have special polishing agents or chemicals that remove even more stains. Unlike bleaches, these products do not change the actual color of teeth. They help surface stains only.

Products used to whiten teeth can make teeth more sensitive. They can also bother your gums. These side effects most often go away after you stop using the product.

Above article from www.womenshealth.gov

Purcellville Dental
Timothy A. Smith, DDS
Telephone: 540.338.0110
609-T East Main Street
Purcellville, VA 20132

Invisalign Clear Dental Braces Purcellville VA

Thinking about getting Invisalign?










What is invisalign and how does it work? What are aligners made of, and what do they look like?
The virtually invisible aligners, which are made of a thermoplastic material uniquely developed for the Invisalign treatment plan, look similar to teeth-whitening trays. A series of Invisalign aligners are custom-made for you, to move your teeth in the sequence determined by your doctor.

How do the aligners straighten teeth?
Over the course of treatment, you will be supplied with a series of aligners. Each aligner will make slight adjustments to tooth position, a process that is mapped out in advance by your doctor, specifically for your situation. When the aligners are placed on the teeth, they cause the teeth to gradually shift from their current position. After approximately two weeks, you will begin using the next set of aligners, which will continue the teeth straightening process.

How will Invisalign effectively move my teeth?
Through the use of our patented thermoplastic design, Invisalign aligners move your teeth through the appropriate placement of controlled force. The main difference is that Invisalign not only controls the force, but also the timing of the force application. During each stage, only certain teeth are allowed to move. These movements are determined by your doctor as he or she maps out your unique Invisalign treatment plan.

What are the primary benefits of Invisalign?
Invisalign aligners are virtually invisible. No one may even notice that you're wearing them, making Invisalign a seamless fit with your lifestyle. Invisalign aligners are removable. For the best results and a timely outcome, aligners should be worn for 20 to 22 hours per day. However, unlike with braces, you have the flexibility to remove your aligners to eat and drink what you want during treatment. And you can also remove the aligners to brush and floss as you normally would, for fresh breath and good oral hygiene. There are no metal brackets or wires that could cause irritation to your mouth, an advantage over traditional braces. Plus, since your office visits during treatment don't involve metal or wire adjustments, you'll likely spend less time in the doctor's chair. Invisalign allows you to view your virtual results and treatment plan before you start so you can see how your straight teeth will look when your treatment is complete. Instead of imagining how much better it can be, you'll be able to see it for yourself.
Above article from Invisalign.com


Purcellville Dental
Timothy A. Smith, DDS
Telephone: 540.338.0110
609-T East Main Street
Purcellville, VA 20132

Visit our main website to learn about our Invisalign Clear dental braces - in Purcellville VA

Children's Dentist Purcellville VA

Dental Care for Your Baby

Q. When should my child first see a dentist?

"First visit by first birthday" sums it up. Your child should visit a pediatric dentist when the first tooth comes in, usually between 6 and 12 months of age. This visit will establish a dental home for your child. Early examination and preventive care will protect your child’s smile now and in the future.

Q. Why so early? What dental problems could a baby have?

The most important reason is to begin a thorough prevention program. Dental problems can begin early. A big concern is Early Childhood Caries (formerly known as baby bottle tooth decay or nursing caries). Once a child’s diet includes anything besides breast-milk, erupted teeth are at risk for decay. The earlier the dental visit, the better the chance of preventing dental problems. Children with healthy teeth chew food easily and smile with confidence. Start your child now on a lifetime of good dental habits.

Q. How can I prevent tooth decay from nursing or using a bottle?

At-will breast-feeding should be avoided after the first primary (baby) teeth begin to erupt and other sources of nutrition have been introduced. Children should not fall asleep with a bottle containing anything other than water. Drinking juice from a bottle should be avoided. Fruit juice should only be offered in a cup with meals or at snack time.

Q. When should bottle-feeding be stopped?

Children should be weaned from the bottle at 12-14 months of age.

Q. Should I worry about thumb and finger sucking?

Thumb sucking is perfectly normal for infants; many stop by age 2. Prolonged thumb sucking can create crooked teeth or bite problems. If the habit continues beyond age 3, a professional evaluation is recommended. Your pediatric dentist will be glad to suggest ways to address a prolonged thumb sucking habit.

Q. When should I start cleaning my baby’s teeth?

The sooner the better! Starting at birth, clean your child’s gums with a soft infant toothbrush or cloth and water. As soon as the teeth begin to appear, start brushing twice daily using fluoridated toothpaste and a soft, age-appropriate sized toothbrush. Use a "smear" of toothpaste to brush the teeth of a child less than 2 years of age. For the 2-5 year old, dispense a "pea-size" amount of toothpaste and perform or assist your child’s toothbrushing. Remember that young children do not have the ability to brush their teeth effectively.

Q. Any advice on teething?

From six months to age 3, your child may have tender gums when teeth erupt. Many children like a clean teething ring, cool spoon or cold wet washcloth. Some parents swear by a chilled ring; others simply rub the baby’s gums with a clean finger.

Above article from www.aapd.org

Purcellville Dental
Timothy A. Smith, DDS
Telephone: 540.338.0110
609-T East Main Street
Purcellville, VA 20132

Visit our main website to learn about our dental care services for children in Purcellville VA

Dental Care Purcellville VA

Gum Disease FAQs

What are the consequences of missing teeth?
There are actually several negative consequences of missing some or all of your teeth. First, missing teeth will affect the esthetics of your face. Not only will your smile be affected by the gaps from missing teeth, but if you’re missing too many teeth, the skin around your mouth won’t be supported properly and will start to sag, making your appear older than you are. Additionally, missing teeth will make it more difficult to chew your food properly and may even affect the way you speak. Finally, missing even one tooth may have emotional consequences; many people feel less confident about their smile when they are missing teeth. If you are currently missing any of your teeth, consider replacing them with dental implants, which can look and feel just like natural teeth. For more information about implants, browse www.perio.org or talk to your periodontist.

I was recently diagnosed with periodontal disease. How often should I see my periodontist for an examination?
Regular examinations are very important to keep track of the present status of your disease and any disease progression over time. Your periodontist will work with you to create a maintenance schedule depending on how advanced your periodontal disease is at that time. Based on many variable factors such as your overall health, the severity of bone loss, and risk factors such as smoking and genetics, your periodontist will constantly tailor your care so your periodontal disease does not progress further. He or she may recommend exams every six months for mild periodontal disease, or every few months for more advanced stages.

I was recently diagnosed with periodontal disease. My periodontist mentioned that laser surgery would be an appropriate option for my treatment course. Is laser surgery safe? Is it as effective as traditional treatment courses?
There seems to be a lot of mixed messages when it comes to the use of lasers in periodontal treatment. Currently, there is insufficient evidence to suggest that any specific laser wavelength is superior to the traditional treatment methods of the common periodontal diseases, such as periodontitis. Therefore, it is always in your best interest to talk with your individual periodontist about the particular laser or therapy he or she plans on using, and why he or she feels that it is the best course of treatment for your particular case. If you still have concerns, you may want to contact another periodontist in your area for a second opinion.

Above article from www.perio.org

Purcellville Dental
Timothy A. Smith, DDS
Telephone: 540.338.0110
609-T East Main Street
Purcellville, VA 20132

Visit our main website to learn about our dental care services in Purcellville VA

Dentist Purcellville VA

Dentist Purcellville VA ~ Dental Patient Testimonials

As always, my family and I are treated very well by Dr. Smith and his entire staff. We are very happy with the level of service we continually receive. Keep up the great work. —Tony Funkhouser

The entire dental team is just great…positive, pleasant, knowledgeable, and friendly. —Wayne Metcalf

I would like to compliment you and your professional staff. The level of service that I receive each time I visit your office is unparalleled, and I cannot say enough about your personal dedication to maintaining such high service standards. Because of this, my family and I plan to remain under you care for a long time to come. —Tom Anderson

It’s all good – nice to feel welcomed and be treated as almost part of the family rather than a customer – great team!
—Dave Robinson

I moved and I still go to Purcellville – just for you guys! It’s weird to love your dentist office. :p —Jennifer Colbert

I thought everyone was super. I felt very comfortable and listened to, and I didn’t feel rushed or like I wasn’t part of the team. Thanks so much. —Callie Fulmer

I am always pleased with the positive attitude of the staff and the thorough dental examination I receive. Thanks for your expertise!
—Peggy Kasson

I was very impressed that Dr. Smith took time to allay my nervousness about the procedure and to reassure me it wouldn’t be as bad as I had been told by another dentist. —JoAnne Stapleton

In case I haven’t mentioned this before. I can’t be happier with your office. I went to three other dentists in the area before I found you. My family and I are completely satisfied with the level of service we’ve received from each and every one of you. You make going to the dentist enjoyable. —Sandy Starke

Service is always excellent! New people make themselves known and make you comfortable. Thanks as always.
—Pat Presley

Everyone was extremely nice and very professional. Over the years there have been many new faces in the office. I have always been treated with courtesy and respect. I am also impressed with Dr. Smith’s embracing of advances in dental technology. It has made my visits a lot more enjoyable. —Jim Christian

It’s always a pleasure visiting your office because everyone is very pleasant and seems happy to see me. —Phyllis Book

I’ve known Dr. Tim since he opened his doors. He and all his staff have always provided quality service. I used to hate going to the dentist because of pain and discomfort. Just doesn’t happen when I’m in the chair at Purcellville Dental. Highest recommendations. —Penny Dunn

Purcellville Dental
Timothy A. Smith, DDS
609-T East Main Street
Purcellville, VA 20132

Dental office Purcellville VA

Purcellville Dental - Dental Patient Testimonials

I was so absolutely impressed with your office I decided that I would like to stay even though you are out of network with my dental insurance. Everyone, from the receptionists to the assistant to the dentist, had a warm affect and absolute knowledge. All my questions from financial to medical were answered completely. You guys have a great practice! — Lisa GasqueKuhn

Dr. Smith, I am very pleased with the work you did on my two front teeth. The results are much better than I had anticipated. Thanks! —Jim Fry

Great people, great work, and for me to say that takes a lot with my past history of having been used for fraud by a past dentist. You have made me overcome my fear of dentists. —Paul Arias

Everyone is great in the office. I always look forward to my visit. Thanks to all of you. Smiles —Ernestine Hayes

Your staff was exceedingly pleasant, as always. I appreciated the repair and replacement of my crown on such short notice.
—Carolyn Mitchell

I feel confident that Dr. Smith is prudent and intelligent when it comes to assessment and treatment and I will always be thankful for the root canal he performed because I have had no pain since! —Ginny Schuweiler

Very professional and welcoming staff. My expectations were not only very high but were met. Thanks for making the best out of a potentially bad situation! —Kathryn Skinner

Christie and the “team” are very professional and did a superb job of explaining my current dental status and future dental requirements. —Hal Rhoden

Purcellville Dental
Timothy A. Smith, DDS
Telephone: 540.338.0110
609-T East Main Street
Purcellville, VA 20132

Dentist Purcellville Dental Purcellville VA

Join Our Dental Family of Friends
We would love the opportunity to show you what truly exceptional dental care is all about. Our goal is to provide our patients with care that lasts a lifetime, and we are always very happy to have new patients become part of our family. Our entire team has received special training in providing comfortable, quality dental care, and we love what we do! We welcome the opportunity to provide your routine care, and we strive to treat emergencies the same day.

Purcellville Dental
Timothy A. Smith, DDS
Telephone: 540.338.0110
609-T East Main Street
Purcellville, VA 20132