Preventive dentistry in Falls Church, VA
Broadview Dental provides preventive dentistry in Falls Church, VA for patients of every age. Preventive care includes routine exams, cleanings, X-rays and screenings that help identify dental concerns before they become more complex to treat.
How routine checkups and cleanings stop small problems from becoming expensive ones
Many dental concerns do not cause noticeable symptoms at first. Decay between teeth, a crack around an older restoration or inflammation near the gumline may be easier to identify during a routine visit than at home. Finding concerns early can sometimes make treatment less extensive, such as repairing a tooth with a filling rather than needing a dental crown.
Brushing and flossing are essential for daily home care, while a professional cleaning removes plaque and tartar from areas that are difficult to clean thoroughly on your own. Your recommended cleaning schedule may depend on the health of your teeth and gums.
Some of what a checkup finds can be watched rather than treated. Dr. Nam will tell you what needs attention now, what can safely wait, and what any recommended care would cost, so nothing is booked before you have the full picture.
What a preventive dental visit in Falls Church includes
A checkup is more than a cleaning. Here is what a routine visit may include and why each part matters.
A comprehensive exam
During a comprehensive exam, Dr. Nam evaluates your teeth, gums, bite and oral tissues. He will discuss what he finds and explain any recommended next steps.
Digital X-rays, when they are needed
Digital X-rays can help identify concerns that may not be visible during a visual exam, including decay between teeth or beneath an existing restoration. We recommend X-rays based on your oral health, age, dental history and current needs.
An oral cancer screening
An oral cancer screening includes an evaluation of oral tissues such as the tongue, cheeks, palate and throat. It helps us look for changes that may need further attention.
A professional cleaning
A professional cleaning removes plaque and tartar from tooth surfaces and areas that can be difficult to clean at home. Your dental hygiene care may include cleaning near the gumline, polishing and practical guidance for brushing and flossing.
Gum treatment, if you need it
Bleeding, tenderness or swelling in the gums can be a sign that additional care may be needed. Periodontal care and scaling and root planing may be recommended when treatment below the gumline is appropriate.
How often you should see a dentist for a checkup and cleaning
The right visit schedule depends on your oral health, dental history, age and individual needs.
- Every six monthsBEST FORMOST ADULTS
- Many patients benefit from seeing a dentist every six months for a routine exam and cleaning. Your recommended schedule may differ based on your oral health, home care and risk factors.
- Every three to four monthsBEST FORGUM DISEASE
- Patients with a history of gum disease may benefit from more frequent periodontal maintenance visits, often every three to four months. Dr. Nam will recommend the interval that best supports your gum health after scaling and root planing or other periodontal treatment.
- From the first birthdayBEST FORCHILDREN
- A child’s first dental visit is generally recommended by their first birthday or when the first tooth appears. Follow-up visits are based on the child’s oral health needs, development and comfort level. Learn more about family dentistry.
- A longer first visitBEST FORNEW PATIENTS
- A new-patient appointment may take longer than a routine checkup because it gives us time to learn about your dental history, evaluate your oral health and discuss your goals. See your first visit for more information.
Book preventive dental care at a local dental office near you
Regular dental visits can help you stay informed about your oral health and address concerns before they become more involved. If it has been a while since your last cleaning or exam, you are welcome to start where you are, without judgment.
Broadview Dental is located on West Broad Street in Falls Church, VA, convenient for patients who live or work nearby. Call (571) 584-0020 or use the form below to schedule preventive dentistry near you.
Preventive dental care with Dr. Nam in Falls Church, VA
Dr. Nam provides preventive dental care at Broadview Dental, including exams and recommendations for maintaining your oral health. He will evaluate your teeth, gums and overall dental needs, explain what he finds and help you understand the appropriate next steps.
Whether you are visiting for a comprehensive exam, professional cleaning, digital X-rays or another preventive service, your care plan will be based on your individual needs.
Understanding preventive care costs
The cost of preventive care depends on the services recommended during your visit and the details of your dental benefits, if applicable. Our team can help you understand your treatment plan and available financial options. Learn more about insurance and payment.
If you do not have dental insurance, our in-house membership plan may be a helpful resource for managing the cost of ongoing care. You can also review our current specials for available offers.
Call (571) 584-0020 with questions about preventive dental care, payment options or scheduling your appointment.
Patient reviews in Falls Church, VA
Questions about preventive dental care
Have questions about keeping your smile healthy? We are happy to talk before you book.
Many adults are seen every six months for a routine cleaning and exam, while patients with a history of gum disease may benefit from more frequent visits. Children’s schedules also depend on their age, development and oral health needs. Dr. Nam will recommend a visit schedule that fits your smile.
It is common to go longer than planned between dental visits, and you are welcome to start again at any time. We will begin by learning about your dental history, evaluating your oral health and discussing what you need. Your visit and recommended care will be planned around your individual situation.
Bleeding gums are worth discussing with your dentist, especially if they happen often. They can be associated with gum inflammation, plaque buildup or other oral-health concerns. A professional cleaning and improved home care may help, but the right recommendation depends on the cause of the bleeding.
Not necessarily. The need for digital X-rays depends on your oral health, age, dental history, risk for decay and any symptoms or concerns you may have. Dr. Nam will recommend imaging only when it is clinically appropriate for your care.
A routine cleaning is often comfortable, though some patients may feel sensitivity or tenderness, especially when gums are inflamed or there is significant buildup. Tell our team if anything feels uncomfortable during your visit so we can respond and discuss ways to make your care more comfortable.
No. A routine professional cleaning focuses on removing plaque and tartar from accessible tooth surfaces and around the gumline. Scaling and root planing is a periodontal treatment that may be recommended to clean below the gumline when gum disease is present.
Where to find us
Broadview Dental is at 101 W Broad St, Suite 200 in Falls Church, VA. We are open Monday to Saturday and welcoming new patients of all ages.
Call us or send the form and we will follow up to arrange a time that suits you.
Request an appointment
We’ll follow up by phone or email to confirm a time. Please don’t include sensitive health information.