FAQ

We know that going to the dentist isn’t on most people’s “favorite-things-to-do” list, so we go out of our way to ensure that your time here is as enjoyable and pleasant as possible.  We treat you as an individual, with your own preferences and needs that are unique to you.
If you are looking for a new dental home because you find yourself dreading visits to your current dentist, contact us now to schedule your next appointment. If it’s been a while since you’ve visited a dentist, understand that we are a judgment-free practice–you will be welcomed. For high-quality dental care that caters you, give us a call or schedule your appointment online!

When it comes to appointment availability, we’re proud that we offer a 7:00 a.m. opening time on most days, so that if necessary, you can get your dental appointment out of the way at the start of your day. You can schedule your own appointment right here, on our Web site.

There is little risk in dental X-rays. Digital X-rays use less radiation than traditional film, and we use lead aprons to ensure your safety. Digital x-rays also save time, because as soon as the x-ray is taken the image appears on a computer monitor, so that both you and Dr. Chan can see and understand the diagnosis.

We begin with a complete assessment of your current oral health. We perform an oral cancer screening; we look at muscles and joints that open and close the mouth. We will look at your teeth, and your gums and bone that hold the teeth (the periodontium). We’ll take photos and x-rays when necessary. We then use all this information to determine the type of treatment that is right for you.

Yes, typically your first visit will include a complete cleaning and oral examination. However, if you are seeking dental treatment because of pain or discomfort, then we will schedule a follow-up visit for your cleaning.

You can care for your teeth by brushing them twice daily for two minutes each time and by flossing between your teeth once a day. Cutting back on sugary foods and drinks as well as quitting or avoiding tobacco use and cutting alcohol down intake can also aid in keeping your teeth and gums healthy between check-ups.

The frequency of cleaning depends on the health of your periodontium, or gum tissue. Every individual’s mouth and oral health is different. A patient with no periodontal issues should have two cleanings and two exams each year to maintain optimum oral health. Patients with periodontal issues should have four cleanings each year with examinations to monitor bone and gum levels.

Your toothbrush should be replaced every 3 or 4 months, or sooner if the bristles begin to wear down or fray to avoid ineffective brushing and damage to the gums.

Flossing reduces plaque buildup between teeth that a toothbrush often cannot reach. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that covers the teeth. These bacteria thrive on food particles that get stuck between your teeth and are hard to reach with a toothbrush. Using an interdental cleaner such as floss can help remove those hard to reach areas. For optimal cleaning, you should floss at least once a day.

The answer is definitely, yes! With routine preventive dental care in combination with excellent oral hygiene, your teeth can be with you for life. Be sure you to visit Dr. Chan as necessary and that you care for your teeth and gums as recommended.

It’s important for you to visit a dentist at least twice a year, even if you don’t notice any problems. Many oral health risks begin without any outward or noticeable signs or symptoms and can only be detected by a dentist, who is trained to detect signs of problems in the oral cavity that you might not notice.

The most important part of brushing your teeth is the technique used. Toothpaste is important for what it supplies: fluoride and tartar control. Be careful of the whitening brands because some are abrasive and they can remove enamel from teeth.

Absolutely! Dr. Chan has a talent for helping even the youngest patients feel right at home here at Gaithersburg Dental Care. Our comprehensive menu of services has several options that are ideal for supporting growing smiles, including fluoride treatments, dental sealants, tooth-colored fillings, and more.

Yes. The active ingredient in the GLO Whitening System is carbamide peroxide gel solution, which has been safely used by the dental community to whiten teeth for many years. Brite Smile does not change the underlying structure of the teeth, nor does it damage fillings or tooth enamel.

Yes. Dr. Chan has years of cosmetic dentistry expertise and always enjoys helping patients create smile makeover plans that match their unique goals for appearance and self-confidence. Porcelain veneers, teeth whitening, aesthetic gum recontouring, and other options are available! See our page on cosmetic dentistry.

Porcelain veneers or bonding are most commonly used. Crowns may be used for more severe cases.

Crowns and veneers can last a long time when done well. Most of Dr. Chan’s have a lifespan of over 20 years when properly maintained. He even has patients whose crowns and bridges have lasted over 30 years.

Yes! Bonded veneers can close gaps and help create the smile you desire. Bonded resins generally require just one office visit, while porcelain veneering takes two. Bonded veneers, along with good oral hygiene and a healthy lifestyle, are effective ways to enhance a smile. Dr. Chan can explain the various techniques and help determine which is best suited to your specific needs.

Cosmetic dentistry is the art and science of designing wonderful smiles. It involves all aspects of general dentistry with a special emphasis on enhancing the esthetics of your smile with the artistry of the dentist and specialized dental materials and techniques.

Dental bonding uses tooth-colored material to correct minor or even major irregularities such as chips, gaps, exposed root surfaces or broken or decayed teeth. It quickly improves the appearance of your teeth and offers long-lasting results. The material fuses to the tooth and can be custom colored and shaped to exactly match your own natural teeth.

Dental implants last longer than any other type of dental treatment. In most cases, implants will last for the rest of your life.

While every patient’s needs are different, for missing teeth Dr. Chan is likely to recommend dental implants, which are the premier tooth replacement solution today. Implants are superior because they actually rebuild every part of your natural tooth, including the sturdy root within the jawbone. This comprehensive approach preserves oral health, encourages unparalleled longevity, and creates a finished “tooth” that’s virtually seamless in look and feel from what was originally present.

Not at all! Dr. Chan has been placing dental implants and restoring them for the past 13 years. You can regain a mouthful of strong, attractive teeth in one convenient location.

No. Unlike traditional wires and brackets, you can eat whatever you desire while in treatment because you remove your aligners to eat and drink.

No, gum will stick to the aligners. We recommend removing your aligners for all meals and snacks.

While Invisalign can be used with virtually any treatment philosophy, specific training is needed. All doctors interested in treating patients with Invisalign must attend training before cases will be accepted from their office.

Usually about once every 4-6 weeks. This is the only way the doctor can be sure that the treatment is progressing as planned.

Most people experience temporary discomfort for a few days at the beginning of each new stage of treatment. This is normal and is typically described as a feeling of pressure. It is a sign that Invisalign® is working—sequentially moving your teeth to their final destination. This discomfort typically goes away a couple of days after you insert the new aligner in the series.

Invisalign aligners are made of clear, strong medical grade plastic that is virtually invisible when worn.

Invisalign aligners are clear, so you can straighten your teeth without anyone knowing.
Invisalign is removable. Unlike braces, you can eat and drink what you want during treatment. You can also brush and floss normally to maintain good oral hygiene.
Invisalign is comfortable. There are no metal brackets or wires as with braces to cause mouth irritation, and no metal or wires means you spend less time in the doctor’s chair getting adjustments.
Invisalign allows you to view your own virtual treatment plan before you start—so you can see how your straight teeth will look when your treatment is complete.

Aligners are clear and look similar to tooth-whitening trays, but are custom-made for a better fit to move teeth. Some orthodontists and dentists have referred to them as “contact lenses for teeth.”

This depends on the outcome of the treatment. Some patients might need a positioner or conventional retainer. Other patients might need a clear plastic retainer similar to an Invisalign aligner. Discuss these possibilities with Dr. Chan; every patient is different, and outcomes vary.

Invisalign uses 3-D computer imaging technology to depict the complete treatment plan from the initial position to the final desired position from which a series of custom-made, clear “aligners” are produced. Each “aligner” moves teeth incrementally and is worn for one to two weeks, then replaced by the next in the series until the final position is achieved.