Do you accept referrals?

We absolutely accept referrals from our patients and appreciate their trust in us. The referrals that we receive are the greatest compliment.

Do you accept my insurance plans?

We are not providers with HMO’s or PPO’s, but our business staff is happy to file your insurance form electronically. While we understand why insurance may be a concern, we feel that it should never dictate the quality or timing of your treatment.

What different payment options do you provide?

When you visit our office, you can pay for all of our services with cash or check. We also accept VISA, MasterCard, and American Express. If you are undergoing extensive treatment, we are happy to offer third party, interest-free financing through Care Credit.

I really do not like visiting the dentist. Is there anything you can do to help relax me?

We can tell when people are anxious about being in a dentist’s office. That is why we offer several amenities to make your visit comfortable. We provide several attractive features that help our patients relax while undergoing dental procedures, including headphones with radio, CD’s, or bring your own books on tape. We provide warm blankets and have a supply of refreshing juices, smoothies, and water available. If you remain nervous, or are undergoing a complex procedure, we may suggest oral sedation.

What makes you different from any other dental practice that I can visit?

The first time you call our office to inquire about your appointment our team will give you a personalized warm welcome to our practice. We offer quality dentistry that appeals to your senses. When you walk in our practice, you will experience a comfortable, beautiful, and new facility where soft music plays and a flat screen television provides you with the most current dental information or today’s news. Before your appointment, you can enjoy coffee, tea, or one of the other beverages that we offer in our practice. We have state-of-the-art instruments and technology that help us to work pain-free. The entire office has big, beautiful windows to give you an open feeling, and we provide complimentary parking to our patients. Most importantly, Dr. Kitchen and Dr. Harris have the expertise to create a beautiful, comfortable smile for you that will last over your lifetime. If you really want to know what makes us
different, stop in, see our office, and meet our staff.

What do I do if I have an emergency when the office is closed?

We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. If you have an emergency, please call our office number at (703) 836-7000 and follow the instructions to contact our on-call doctor.

What precautions do you take to ensure patient safety?

We only use new and disposable materials that come in direct contact with you. We autoclave (sterilize) all of our instruments. We run monthly reports on all sterilization equipment to ensure its safety. We are diligent in keeping our office clean for your safety, and our staff is committed to continuing education where they learn the most current sterilization techniques.

I brush every day but my breath just is not fresh. Is there anything I can do?

Since halitosis – the technical term for bad breath – can have many causes, it is important to investigate the reason for the condition. If you have not regularly had your teeth professionally cleaned, you may have untreated periodontal disease. Once we determine the reason for your halitosis, we may review your brushing and flossing techniques, and possibly suggest a tongue scraper since bacteria that causes halitosis can build up under your gums or on your tongue. We also have products available that will help freshen your breath. (Oxyfresh breath system)

My gums bleed after I brush. Is this something to be concerned about?

Yes, healthy gums do not bleed! You should be very concerned about bleeding gums, especially if you have not had a professional cleaning recently. While it may seem harmless, bleeding gums may indicate a variety of serious health problems including gum disease. If your gums are bleeding, call us at (703) 836-7000 immediately for an appointment to analyze the cause.

What is a comprehensive cosmetic analysis?

Our goal is to provide you with the confidence that we will listen and communicate effectively with you about your individual desires. We have incorporated several tools to make it easier on you to understand your choices, visualize your outcome, and find a way to make your dreams come true.
At your consultation, you can expect:

  • Diagnostic photography to help you evaluate your smile
  • Educational DVD to properly inform you about specific procedures
  • Digital imaging to illustrate your case and allow you to visualize your own unique smile potential
  • Fabricated lab “mock” wax ups to use as a guide and to show you your future smile

Transforming your smile can literally be a life-changing event!

At what age should my children first see a dentist?

We recommend the first visit after their second birthday.