General Dentistry in Tysons Corner, VA
General dentistry encompasses the preventive and restorative care that keeps your smile healthy for life. From routine cleanings to emergency care, Tysons Dental Associates provides comprehensive care for the whole family.
Cleanings, exams, fillings, emergency care, and sedation options for the whole family.
What Is General Dentistry?
General dentistry is the foundation of oral health. It includes preventive care (cleanings, exams, X-rays), restorative treatments (fillings, crowns, root canals), and the diagnosis and management of oral health conditions. Your general dentist is your primary care provider for all things dental.
At Tysons Dental Associates, we have provided general dentistry services to families in Tysons Corner, McLean, Fairfax, and Northern Virginia since 1997. Our philosophy centers on prevention: catching problems early when they are easier and less expensive to treat.
Dr. Alex Osinovsky and our team use the latest technology, including digital X-rays, intraoral cameras, and 3D imaging, to provide accurate diagnoses and effective treatment. We take the time to explain your options and help you make informed decisions about your care.
Whether you need a routine cleaning, have a toothache, or want to discuss sedation options for an upcoming procedure, we are here to help. We welcome patients of all ages and treat dental anxiety with compassion and understanding.
General Dentistry Services
We offer a full range of services to keep your smile healthy at every stage of life.
Preventive Care
- Professional cleanings and polishing
- Comprehensive dental exams
- Digital X-rays and 3D imaging
- Oral cancer screenings
- Fluoride treatments and sealants
Restorative Care
- Tooth-colored fillings
- Dental crowns and bridges
- Root canal therapy
- Tooth extractions
- Gum disease treatment
Emergency Dental Care
Dental emergencies do not wait for convenient times. We reserve time each day for urgent cases and can often see you the same day you call. Our goal is to relieve your pain and address the problem as quickly as possible.
Common dental emergencies include severe toothache, knocked-out or loose teeth, broken or chipped teeth, lost fillings or crowns, abscesses or swelling, and objects stuck between teeth. If you are unsure whether your situation is an emergency, call us and we will advise you.
What to Do in a Dental Emergency:
- Knocked-out tooth: Handle by the crown (not the root), rinse gently, and try to place it back in the socket. If that is not possible, store it in milk and call us immediately.
- Severe toothache: Rinse with warm salt water, take over-the-counter pain medication, and call our office.
- Broken tooth: Save any pieces, rinse your mouth, apply a cold compress to reduce swelling, and contact us.
- Lost filling or crown: Keep the restoration if possible and call us to schedule a repair.
Sedation Dentistry
If fear or anxiety has kept you from the dentist, sedation dentistry can help. We offer multiple levels of sedation to ensure you are comfortable and relaxed during any procedure. Many patients say they wish they had discovered sedation dentistry sooner.
Our Sedation Options:
- Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas): Mild sedation inhaled through a mask. You remain awake but relaxed. Effects wear off quickly, allowing you to drive home after your appointment.
- Oral Sedation: A pill taken before your appointment produces moderate relaxation. You will feel drowsy and may not remember much of the procedure. You will need someone to drive you home.
- IV Sedation: Deeper sedation administered through an IV. Ideal for extensive procedures or severe anxiety. You will be closely monitored throughout and will need transportation home.
We also offer acupuncture as a complementary therapy to reduce anxiety and discomfort. Our licensed acupuncturist works alongside our dental team to provide a holistic approach to dental care.
Why Preventive Care Matters
Prevention is always better than treatment. Regular dental visits allow us to catch problems early, when they are smaller and less expensive to fix. Patients who maintain routine care typically need fewer fillings, crowns, and other restorative procedures over their lifetime.
During a preventive visit, our hygienist removes plaque and tartar that brushing and flossing miss. We polish your teeth to remove surface stains and apply fluoride to strengthen enamel. Dr. Osinovsky examines your teeth, gums, and mouth for any signs of decay, gum disease, oral cancer, or other conditions.
Digital X-rays allow us to see what is happening below the surface: cavities between teeth, bone loss from gum disease, infections at the root tips, and more. Early detection means simpler treatment.
Tips for Maintaining Oral Health:
- Brush twice daily for two minutes with fluoride toothpaste
- Floss daily to clean between teeth
- Limit sugary and acidic foods and beverages
- Do not smoke or use tobacco products
- Visit the dentist every six months (or as recommended)
- Wear a mouthguard if you grind your teeth or play sports
Learn More
Learn About General Dentistry
Watch these educational videos about preventive care and maintaining oral health.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I visit the dentist?
Most adults should visit the dentist every six months for a routine cleaning and examination. Patients with gum disease, a history of cavities, or certain health conditions may need more frequent visits (every 3-4 months). During your exam, we will recommend the ideal schedule for your needs.
What is included in a dental cleaning?
A professional cleaning includes removal of plaque and tartar (scaling), polishing to remove surface stains, flossing between all teeth, fluoride treatment (optional), and an oral cancer screening. We also take digital X-rays as needed to detect issues not visible during the exam.
Do you accept dental insurance?
Yes, we accept most major dental insurance plans including Delta Dental, MetLife, Cigna, Aetna, and many others. We will verify your benefits before your appointment and help you understand your coverage. We also offer affordable payment plans for uninsured patients.
What should I do if I have a dental emergency?
Call our office immediately at (703) 848-8906. We reserve time each day for dental emergencies and can often see you the same day. For after-hours emergencies, our voicemail provides instructions. Common emergencies include severe toothache, knocked-out teeth, broken teeth, and lost fillings or crowns.
Do you offer sedation for anxious patients?
Yes. We offer multiple sedation options including nitrous oxide (laughing gas), oral sedation (a pill taken before your appointment), and IV sedation for deeper relaxation. Our team is experienced in treating anxious and phobic patients with compassion.
Are dental X-rays safe?
Yes. Modern digital X-rays use up to 90% less radiation than traditional film X-rays. We use the lowest possible exposure and only take X-rays when diagnostically necessary. X-rays are essential for detecting cavities between teeth, bone loss, infections, and other issues not visible during a visual exam.
What is the difference between a filling and a crown?
A filling repairs a small to medium cavity by removing decay and filling the space with composite resin. A crown covers the entire visible tooth and is used when decay or damage is too extensive for a filling. Crowns provide more protection and are recommended for teeth with large fillings, cracks, or after root canal treatment.
How can I prevent cavities?
Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, floss daily, limit sugary foods and drinks, and visit the dentist regularly. Dental sealants (a protective coating on molars) can prevent cavities in children and adults. Fluoride treatments strengthen enamel and reduce decay risk.
New Patient Special
Start your journey to better oral health with a comprehensive examination, digital X-rays, and personalized treatment recommendations. Contact us to learn about current offers.
Ready to Schedule Your Visit?
Contact our Tysons Corner, VA office today for a routine cleaning, exam, or to discuss any dental concerns. We look forward to caring for your smile.