- Dental ExaminationPeriodontal disease is diagnosed by your dentist or dental hygienist during a periodontal examination. This type of exam should always be part of your regular dental check-up.
- X-raysDigital radiography (digital X-ray) is the latest technology used to take dental X-rays. This technique uses an electronic sensor (instead of X-ray film) that captures and stores the digital image on a computer. This image can be instantly viewed and enlarged, helping the dentist and dental hygienist detect problems more easily. Digital X-rays reduce radiation 80-90% compared to the already low exposure of traditional dental X-rays.
- Oral Cancer ScreeningOral cancer screening: Check the face, neck, lips, tongue, throat, tissues, and gums for any signs of oral cancer.
- Teeth CleaningBrushing and flossing are of paramount importance to oral hygiene. Though bi-annual professional dental cleanings remove plaque, tartar, and debris, excellent homecare methods are equally valuable. Proper brushing and flossing can enhance the health of the mouth, make the smile sparkle, and prevent serious diseases.
- Fluoride TreatmentAlthough most people receive fluoride from food and water, sometimes it is not enough to help prevent decay. Your dentist or dental hygienist may recommend the use of home and/or professional fluoride treatments for the following reasons...
- Dental SealantsA sealant is a thin, plastic coating applied to the chewing surface of molars, premolars and any deep grooves (called pits and fissures) of teeth. More than 75% of dental decay begins in these deep grooves. Teeth with these conditions are hard to clean and are very susceptible to decay. A sealant protects the tooth by sealing deep grooves, creating a smooth, easy to clean surface.
- FillingsThere are many types of filling materials available, each with their own advantages and disadvantages. You and your dentist can discuss the best options for restoring your teeth. Composite fillings, along with silver amalgam fillings, are the most widely used today. Because composite fillings are tooth colored, they can be closely matched to the color of existing teeth, and are more aesthetically suited for use in front teeth or more visible areas of the mouth.
- Resin CompositeBonding is a cosmetic procedure that allows the dentist to reshape or repair your smile using composite resin. Cosmetic bonding is particularly ideal if you’re insecure about the appearance of your smile or want an affordable alternative to invasive and more costly procedures such as orthodontics or veneers. With bonding, chipped or uneven teeth can be repaired easily and affordably, restoring your self-confidence. Additionally, bonding is often completed in a single visit and doesn’t require any anesthetic!
- VeneersVeneers are very thin pieces of durable, tooth shaped porcelain that are custom made (for shape and color) by a professional dental laboratory. They are bonded onto the front of teeth to create a beautiful and attractive smile.
- CrownsAn onlay restoration is a custom made filling made of composite material, gold, or tooth-colored porcelain. Porcelain onlays are popular because they resemble your natural tooth. An onlay is sometimes also referred to as a partial crown. Porcelain onlays are made by a professional dental laboratory and is permanently cemented onto the tooth by your dentist.
- BridgesDental bridges are highly durable and will last many years; however, they may need replacement or need to be re-cemented due to normal wear.
- Dental BondingTo begin, the dentist will isolate the teeth included in the procedure, etching them in preparation for bonding. After applying the etching conditioning liquid, the surface of the teeth will have small crevices that allow the tooth stronger adhesion with the bonding agent.
- Restorative Dentistry
- Root Canal TreatmentDr. Lana Qaqish grew up in Richmond, Virginia, and pursued her passion for dentistry at Virginia Commonwealth University, where she earned both her B.S. in Chemistry (2015) and Doctorate in Dental Surgery (2021). She received several scholarships in dental school and was selected among a small group of dental students for additional training in endodontics in her senior year. She was also a Senior Teaching Assistant, teaching second year dental students the clinical skills necessary to become competent dentists. She graduated with honors and was awarded the International Digital Dentistry Senior Student Award for her performance in the use of digital technologies.
- Periodontal SurgeryIf the pockets do not heal after scaling and root planing, periodontal surgery may be needed to reduce pocket depths, making teeth easier to clean. Your dentist may also recommend that you see a periodontist (specialist of the gums and supporting bone).
- Deep CleaningThe dentist is able to conduct deep cleaning treatments such as scaling and root planing to remove hardened calculus (tartar) deposits from the gum pockets. An antibiotic may be prescribed to ensure that the bacterium is completely destroyed and the periodontal infection does not spread. In most cases, periodontal disease can be prevented with regular cleanings and proper home care.
- DenturesDental implants are a great way to replace missing teeth and also provide a fixed solution to having removable partial or complete dentures. Implants provide excellent support and stability for these dental appliances.
- Dental ImplantsDental implants offer a natural looking replacement for adult teeth. In addition, implants restore functionality to the jaw, making speaking, eating, and chewing easier. Most implants are comprised of a screw that is embedded into the bone and a post to which the prosthesis is attached.
- Oral Surgery
- Flap SurgeryPocket elimination surgery – Pocket elimination surgery (also known as flap surgery) is a surgical treatment which can be performed to reduce the pocket size between the teeth and gums. Surgery on the jawbone is another option which serves to eliminate indentations in the bone which foster the colonization of bacteria.
- Tooth ExtractionsIf you are experiencing extreme sensitivity or are suffering from advanced periodontal disease, you may be required to have a tooth extracted. With a simple extraction, the dentist can safely remove the affected tooth without the need for major surgery.
- Bone GraftingTissue & bone grafting – Where a considerable amount of bone or gum tissue has been destroyed, the dentist may elect to graft new tissue by inserting a membrane to stimulate tissue growth.
- OrthodonticsDr. John Knight continued to work with Jay and the team there until his passing in May of 2012. In December of 2009 Dr. Knight opened Spring Creek Family Dentistry & Orthodontics located at Zion Crossroads, VA at the intersection of I-64 and VA route #15. The practice there serves the communities of Louisa, Fluvanna, Orange, Goochland and Albemarle Counties.
- Invisalign OrthodonticsDr. Knight and Dr. Bellavance are Invisalign Preferred Providers. Invisalign “The Clear Braces Alternative” is a very convenient and cost effective way to Orthodontically correct rotated, misaligned and malpositioned teeth. There are many advantages to having Orthodontics using Invisalign.
- BracesAfter capturing cephalometric X-rays, the dentist will be able to see a complete side profile of the head. This can assist in orthodontic planning and allow an immediate evaluation of how braces might impact the facial profile and teeth. Another common use for this type of X-ray is to determine specific measurements prior to the creation and placement of dental implants.
- Teeth WhiteningTeeth whitening (or bleaching) is a simple, non-invasive dental treatment used to change the color of natural tooth enamel and is an ideal way to enhance the beauty of your smile.
- Cosmetic DentistryIn the past decade there has been a dramatic interest in cosmetic dentistry. We all realize that having a healthy, bright, beautiful smile enhances our appearance and allows us to smile with confidence. Thanks to the advances in modern cosmetic dentistry, we are able to improve our teeth and smiles with quick, painless and surprisingly affordable treatments.