Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

The length of time a teeth cleaning takes can vary based on several factors, including the condition of your teeth and the type of cleaning you need. However, a standard teeth cleaning for an adult usually takes about 30 to 60 minutes. This includes the time taken for plaque and tartar removal, polishing, and possibly a fluoride treatment.

What to Expect at a Teeth Cleaning 

For those with good oral hygiene and no major oral health concerns, a regular cleaning can be a quick process. However, if you have gum disease, significant plaque or tartar build-up, or other dental problems, the cleaning process may take longer. Multiple appointments may sometimes be necessary to address these issues entirely.

The Importance of Routine Teeth Cleanings 

Regularly scheduled teeth cleanings are essential to maintaining oral health and preventing future dental issues. At Rocktown Family Dental Care, our teeth cleaning services are readily available to meet the needs of every patient, from routine cleanings to periodontal treatments like scaling and root planing. 

Schedule Your Teeth Cleaning in Harrisonburg, VA Today! 

Routine teeth cleanings and exams are crucial for maintaining good oral health, preventing dental problems, and keeping your smile bright. 

Call Rocktown Family Dental Care today to schedule your next appointment! 

Your smile deserves exceptional care that’s easy to access. That’s why our dental office is conveniently located where you need us: close to home and designed with your busy life in mind.

Whether you’re running errands, heading to work, or bringing the family along, our accessible location ensures that prioritizing your oral health fits seamlessly into your day.

Where Is Rocktown Family Dental Care Located?

Our dental office is located at 1971 Evelyn Byrd Avenue, Suite F, in Harrisonburg, VA. We are behind the Mall at the corner of Neff and Evelyn Byrd.

Driving Directions

From the Southeast:

• Drive northwest on Hwy. 33 until you reach Evelyn Byrd Ave.
• Turn left on Evelyn Byrd Ave.
• Our dental office is on the left.

From the West:

• Drive east on Hwy. 33 until you reach University Blvd.
• Turn right on University Blvd.
• Turn left on Evelyn Byrd Ave.
• Our dental office is on the right.

Local Landmarks

Our dental clinic is located close to many area schools and businesses; some of the nearby local landmarks include the following:

• James Madison University
• Spotswood Country Club
• Edith J. Carrier Arboretum
• A Dream Come True Playground

Looking for a Dental Clinic in Harrisonburg, VA?

If you’re searching online for a “dentist near me,” consider the expert dental team at Rocktown Family Dental Care! We can help your entire family achieve the best oral health possible.

Please call us at (540) 705-0102 to schedule an appointment.

Rocktown Family Dental Care is in-network with Delta Dental, Sunlife, and most Blue Cross/Blue Shield plans. If you don’t have one of these plans, we will be happy to process your claims on your behalf.

We Help with Your Dental Insurance Needs

Our lead dental assistant, Tiffany, handles insurance for our office and is very knowledgeable. She will help you understand your plan, including your coverage, limitations, and restrictions. She also obtains pre-authorizations to ensure the proposed treatment is covered so that you can avoid unexpected out-of-pocket costs.

Most dental insurance plans have an annual maximum benefit. Tiffany will help plan your treatments to get the most out of your coverage without exceeding the limit. Sometimes, an alternative treatment is available; in this case, Tiffany will explain your options so you are aware of the costs and benefits of each.

No Insurance? No Problem!

We are pleased to offer an in-house dental savings plan for uninsured patients. You pay a set annual fee and receive routine exams, cleanings, and x-rays at no extra cost. The plan also includes discounts on all our services to help reduce your costs. Please let us know if you’re interested in this option!

CareCredit Third-Party Financing

Rocktown Family Dental Care is partnered with CareCredit, which offers no-interest and low-interest financing options. With CareCredit, you can get needed dental care and pay the balance in manageable monthly payments. We can help you get started, or you can apply online directly at CareCredit.com.

We Can Answer Your Insurance and Financing Questions

Please don’t hesitate to contact our Harrisonburg, VA, dental office if you have questions!

It is difficult to pinpoint the exact time that a certain dental treatment takes until we understand your oral health needs. However, we understand you’re busy and need an idea of how much time to set aside for your dental appointment.

Average Times for Dental Appointments

Please note all times mentioned below are approximate.

• Dental exams — A routine dental exam usually takes about 30 minutes. If you are a new patient or have more complex issues we need to evaluate, it may take up to 60 minutes.
• Teeth cleanings — A standard teeth cleaning typically lasts between 30 and 60 minutes, depending on factors like your oral hygiene habits, gum health, and the extent of tartar buildup.
• Scaling and root planing — This deep cleaning procedure is performed under local anesthesia, and treatment times vary widely. Total average treatment times are 1–4 hours; however, the procedure is performed in quadrants of the mouth and divided over multiple appointments.
• Fillings — The time to complete a tooth filling varies based on the size and location of the cavity, but most can be completed in 30-60 minutes.
• Crowns and bridges — Getting a crown or bridge typically requires two appointments. The first includes tooth preparation and taking impressions, and takes about one hour. The second appointment involves removing the temporary and adjusting the restoration for a comfortable fit, which takes 30-60 minutes.
• Root canals — The length of root canal treatment depends on the tooth and the number of canals. Thanks to our advanced technology, we can complete most root canals in a single appointment that lasts about an hour.

Schedule an Appointment So We Can Help You

It is always best to call our dental office before your appointment to get a more precise idea of how long it will take. We are here to help you, so please don’t hesitate to contact us!

The lifespan of your dental work varies and depends on the type of restoration, the materials used, and your oral hygiene habits. At Rocktown Family Dental Care, we provide high-quality dentistry, including using top-of-the-line materials to ensure the longevity and durability of all dental work.

Average Lifespan of Dental Work

Fillings — Tooth-colored composite fillings generally last between 10 to 15 years. Dr. Anderson always opts for the highest quality materials to provide long-lasting, natural-looking solutions.

Bonding — On average, dental bonding can last 5–7 years if you care for your teeth properly and avoid habits that can damage the bonding material.

Porcelain veneers — Veneers are thin shells of porcelain or composite resin bonded to the fronts of teeth to improve their appearance. With proper care, veneers can last between 10 to 20 years before needing replacement.

Dental crowns — Dental crowns restore the shape, size, and function of damaged teeth. We use premium materials like zirconia and porcelain, and the average lifespan ranges from 10 to 20 years.

Bridges — Dental bridges are fixed prosthetic devices that replace one or more missing teeth and can last 10–15 years or longer with proper care.

Dental implants — Implants are a more permanent tooth replacement because they are placed surgically into the jawbone. Dental implants can last 25 years or even a lifetime when properly maintained.

Contact Us to Schedule an Appointment

If you would like more information about our high-quality dentistry or want to schedule an appointment, please call our Harrisonburg, VA, dental office.

Botulinum Toxin Type A, more commonly known as “BOTOX®,” is a neurotoxin that serves as an extremely popular non-surgical treatment for the effects of aging and damage on the skin by temporarily blocking signals from nerves to specific facial muscles, causing the skin to relax, and smoothing out lines and wrinkles.

It’s important to note that the benefits of BOTOX injections are not merely cosmetic. When administered by a skilled professional, BOTOX not only enhances facial aesthetics but also contributes to oral and overall health.

BOTOX: Beyond Beauty

In recent years, BOTOX has emerged as a popular treatment for various issues at dental offices. These non-cosmetic issues for BOTOX include:

• Frequent migraines. BOTOX injection reduces the frequency and intensity of migraines.
• Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders and facial pain caused by excessive grinding of teeth or clenching of the jaw (bruxism).
• Excessive sweating. BOTOX limits hyperhidrosis, which causes excessive sweating.
• Eye disorders. BOTOX treats eye disorders like blepharospasm (uncontrollable blinking) and strabismus (crossed eyes).
• Overactive bladder. BOTOX mitigates the effects of an overactive bladder.
• Muscle spasms. BOTOX effectively reduces spasms and involuntary movement in the muscles of patients with certain neurological conditions.

Safe and Effective BOTOX Treatments in Harrisonburg, VA

If you’re in the Harrisburg area and would like to learn more about how BOTOX injections can not only enhance your appearance but potentially also deliver relief from a variety of bothersome conditions, contact dentist Dr. Joan Anderson and the team at Rocktown Family Dental Care to schedule a consultation!

Cosmetic dentistry focuses on enhancing the appearance of your teeth, mouth, and overall smile. Unlike general or restorative dentistry, which addresses dental health and fixes problems like cavities or gum disease, cosmetic dentistry aims to improve aesthetic features. Specifically, cosmetic dental treatments deal with discolored, chipped, misaligned, or missing teeth.

Cosmetic Dentistry Services We Offer

The field of cosmetic dentistry offers a variety of procedures to improve your smile. These include: 

• Teeth whitening
• Dental veneers
• Tooth-colored fillings
• Composite bonding
• Aesthetic dental crowns

Some of these procedures can be completed in just one or two visits, offering quick, transformative results.

Is Cosmetic Dentistry Right for Me?

If you hide your smile due to imperfections in your teeth, cosmetic dentistry could be the solution for you. It boosts your appearance and improves your oral health by fixing issues like misaligned teeth that are hard to clean, thereby reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease. 

Ready to Transform Your Smile?

Cosmetic dentistry in Harrisonburg, VA, is about more than improving your appearance; it's about gaining confidence and enhancing your quality of life. Whether you need a teeth whitening session or treatments like dental veneers or crowns, our team would love to help you achieve your dream smile. 

Please call us today to schedule your consultation with one of our cosmetic dentists in Harrisonburg, VA. 

The length of time a teeth cleaning takes can vary based on several factors, including the condition of your teeth and the type of cleaning you need. However, a standard teeth cleaning for an adult usually takes about 30 to 60 minutes. This includes the time taken for plaque and tartar removal, polishing, and possibly a fluoride treatment.

What to Expect at a Teeth Cleaning 

For those with good oral hygiene and no major oral health concerns, a regular cleaning can be a quick process. However, if you have gum disease, significant plaque or tartar build-up, or other dental problems, the cleaning process may take longer. Multiple appointments may sometimes be necessary to address these issues entirely.

The Importance of Routine Teeth Cleanings 

Regularly scheduled teeth cleanings are essential to maintaining oral health and preventing future dental issues. At Rocktown Family Dental Care, our teeth cleaning services are readily available to meet the needs of every patient, from routine cleanings to periodontal treatments like scaling and root planing. 

Schedule Your Teeth Cleaning in Harrisonburg, VA Today! 

Routine teeth cleanings and exams are crucial for maintaining good oral health, preventing dental problems, and keeping your smile bright. 

Call Rocktown Family Dental Care today to schedule your next appointment! 

It is difficult to pinpoint the exact time that a certain dental treatment takes until we understand your oral health needs. However, we understand you’re busy and need an idea of how much time to set aside for your dental appointment.

Average Times for Dental Appointments

Please note all times mentioned below are approximate.

• Dental exams — A routine dental exam usually takes about 30 minutes. If you are a new patient or have more complex issues we need to evaluate, it may take up to 60 minutes.
• Teeth cleanings — A standard teeth cleaning typically lasts between 30 and 60 minutes, depending on factors like your oral hygiene habits, gum health, and the extent of tartar buildup.
• Scaling and root planing — This deep cleaning procedure is performed under local anesthesia, and treatment times vary widely. Total average treatment times are 1–4 hours; however, the procedure is performed in quadrants of the mouth and divided over multiple appointments.
• Fillings — The time to complete a tooth filling varies based on the size and location of the cavity, but most can be completed in 30-60 minutes.
• Crowns and bridges — Getting a crown or bridge typically requires two appointments. The first includes tooth preparation and taking impressions, and takes about one hour. The second appointment involves removing the temporary and adjusting the restoration for a comfortable fit, which takes 30-60 minutes.
• Root canals — The length of root canal treatment depends on the tooth and the number of canals. Thanks to our advanced technology, we can complete most root canals in a single appointment that lasts about an hour.

Schedule an Appointment So We Can Help You

It is always best to call our dental office before your appointment to get a more precise idea of how long it will take. We are here to help you, so please don’t hesitate to contact us!

A dental crown is a restoration designed to cover an entire tooth that's been severely decayed, fractured, or damaged. It can be made of ceramic porcelain, which blends flawlessly with your smile, or Dr. Anderson might recommend a gold crown for a molar at the back of your mouth that takes the brunt of your chewing force.  

When Do We Recommend a Tooth Crown in Harrisonburg?

Dental crowns are ideal for severely damaged teeth because they protect your remaining tooth structure and the integrity of your root. Dr. Anderson may recommend a tooth crown in these situations:

• To replace a large broken restoration like a filling
• For cosmetic reasons, to cover a misshapen or discolored tooth
• As a restoration for single tooth implant for tooth replacement
• To restore a severely damaged, decayed, or broken tooth
• To support a prosthetic tooth for a dental bridge

A dental crown in Harrisonburg, VA, will restore your tooth, rejuvenate your chewing function, and maintain the aesthetics of your smile. 

Schedule an Appointment at Rocktown Family Dental Care 

If you have questions about dental crowns or need to schedule your next appointment, you can speak with our team by calling (540) 705-0102 or book an appointment online. 

There’s no single standard or exact figure for what a dental implant “should” cost. This variability in the cost of implants stems from a variety of factors, including:

• The type of dental implant used. Endosteal is most common, but other varieties, like subperiosteal for individuals with insufficient bone height and zygomatic, which are inserted directly into the cheekbone of patients with upper jawbone loss, are sometimes recommended.  
• The extent of the damage to the gums and jawbone where the missing tooth used to be.
• The number of dental implants that are being placed.
• The need for additional procedures like bone grafting or sinus lifts.

As always, it’s essential that you consult with a dentist for a thorough assessment of your individual needs and a specific and accurate cost estimate.

Does Insurance Cover the Cost of Dental Implants?

Coverage for dental implants varies across dental insurance plans. Review your dental insurance policy and consult with your provider and dentist to confirm what (if any) portion of implant placement your insurance will cover. 

Precisely Placing Dental Implants in Harrisonburg, VA

If you’re in the Harrisonburg area and want to learn more about the benefits of dental implants and their cost to you, contact dentist Dr. Joan Anderson and the Rocktown Family Dental Care team to schedule a consultation!

Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that are surgically inserted into the jawbone to replace missing teeth. Typically made from titanium, dental implants are a sturdy foundation for affixing replacement teeth, such as dental crowns, bridges, or dentures. The result is a natural-looking and functional replacement that mimics the look and feel of your original teeth.

How Do Dental Implants Work?

Once the dental implants are inserted and have fully fused with the jawbone—a process known as osseointegration—they act like natural tooth roots. Replacement teeth are attached to the implant, providing a secure and long-lasting solution for tooth loss.

Why Consider Dental Implants?

Dental implants are considered one of the most effective and durable solutions for missing teeth. They don't require adjacent teeth for support, like traditional bridges, and they help preserve the jawbone, preventing the bone loss that often accompanies missing teeth. Dental implants could be an excellent option for you if you're looking for a way to replace missing teeth that are functional and aesthetically pleasing. 

Call Us for Dental Implants in Harrisonburg, VA 

Dental implants have become increasingly popular due to their high success rate and the comfort and confidence they offer patients. If you're considering dental implants in Harrisonburg, VA, call our dental office today for an in-depth evaluation to determine if they are the right choice for your unique smile. 

If you're not experiencing any dental concerns, a routine teeth cleaning and exam typically takes an hour.

What to Expect During a Teeth Cleaning

Brushing your teeth twice daily and flossing once is the best way to eliminate cavity-causing plaque buildup. During your teeth cleaning in Harrisonburg, your hygienist will remove the excess plaque and bacteria buildup from your teeth that you might've missed during brushing and flossing at home. 

What to Expect During Your Dental Exam

Regular exams with your trusted Harrisonburg dentist, Dr. Anderson, will help you protect your smile because she can detect common dental concerns before they become more significant problems. Tooth decay, gum disease, and restoration wear or breakdown can be hard to spot on your own, especially because they don't cause much pain to begin with. 

Dr. Anderson can make you aware of problems early on when they're less complicated and costly to treat. 

If you're managing a condition like gum disease, you may need a deeper cleaning, called scaling and root planing, to help you manage your condition. Dr. Anderson may recommend additional teeth cleanings throughout the year to help you maintain your dental health and keep gum disease controlled. 

If you have questions about teeth cleaning in Harrisonburg, VA, or need to schedule your next appointment, please get in touch with your Rocktown Family Dental Care team. 

Baby teeth, also known as primary teeth, typically start coming out around the age of 6 or 7. However, your child's dental development is unique, and they may lose their baby teeth earlier or later than the average timeline.

At Rocktown Family Dental Care, we encourage you not to worry if your child doesn’t follow the "typical" schedule! We are always here to help and provide guidance if you have concerns or questions.

In What Order Do Baby Teeth Come Out?

Baby teeth play the crucial role of holding space for permanent teeth. As adult teeth develop in the gums, baby tooth roots start to dissolve and fall out painlessly. This process allows permanent teeth to erupt properly and establish a healthy, functional bite.

"First In, First Out"

The order in which baby teeth are lost generally follows the order in which they first appeared. Usually, the two bottom front teeth (lower central incisors) are the first to be lost, followed by the two top front teeth (upper central incisors) and so on. Again, remember this is a general pattern, and your child’s experience may differ.

Space Maintainers for Early Tooth Loss

Sometimes, a baby tooth is lost prematurely due to decay or trauma. In this case, Dr. Anderson may recommend a space maintainer to prevent neighboring teeth from shifting and moving into the space meant for the permanent tooth.

Have Questions about Your Child’s Dental Health?

When you bring your little one to our Harrisonburg, VA, dental office for their six-month checkups, Dr. Anderson will monitor their dental development and answer your questions. Please call Rocktown Family Dental Care today to schedule your child’s next appointment.

We are also pleased to serve Harrisonburg City and Rockingham County, including Broadway, Bridgewater, Dayton, Timberville, Penn Laird, Elkton, McGaheysville, Grottoes, and surrounding communities.

Dr. Anderson recommends scheduling your child’s first dental checkup with us within six months of getting their first tooth or by their first birthday.

As a parent, you may wonder why your little one needs to see the dentist when they hardly have teeth! It’s a valid concern and one we hear a lot. There are a couple of important reasons that we are happy to share with you.

Why Age One Dental Visits Are Important

Early dental visits are crucial for instilling a positive attitude about oral health care in your child. We make these appointments a fun, engaging, and educational experience to get your little one excited about taking care of their teeth. We aim for them to leave us with a big happy smile, looking forward to their next visit.

Of course, we also monitor the development of their baby teeth and educate you on the importance of caring for them. Baby teeth matter because they help your child learn to speak clearly, maintain proper spacing for permanent teeth, and aid in good nutrition by helping them learn to chew.

A Friendly, Safe Environment for Kids

Our dental care team has created a child-friendly environment that makes visits a fun and exciting adventure. We engage young children in the process and ease their fears to help them feel comfortable and secure with us. Our team is specially trained to work with children, using a "tell-show-do" approach to build trust and ensure they feel secure.

Ready to Schedule Your Child’s First Dental Visit?

Dr. Anderson and our friendly dental care team are excited to provide quality children’s dentistry in Harrisonburg, VA, and look forward to welcoming your child. Please contact Rocktown Family Dental Care to schedule an appointment.

We also serve Harrisonburg City and Rockingham County, including Broadway, Bridgewater, Dayton, Timberville, Penn Laird, Elkton, McGaheysville, Grottoes, and surrounding communities.

If you're suffering from gum disease, Dr. Anderson will recommend a deeper teeth cleaning to remove the plaque and tartar buildup causing your gum infection. 

Known as scaling and root planing, this procedure reaches below the gumline to remove tough tartar buildup and help you manage gum disease. We do this procedure in quadrants, as you'll be numb to ensure your comfort. Sometimes, our hygienist will also administer antibiotic treatment during scaling and root planing to help combat gum infection. 

Is Gum Disease Curable?

Gingivitis is the first stage of gum disease, and if you suffer from gingivitis, you may notice your gums bleeding during brushing or flossing, chronic bad breath, or gums that appear red and irritated. If you see these signs, contact your Harrisonburg dentist right away for an exam. 

Patients who can treat gingivitis early on can often reverse their condition and avoid the need for a deeper teeth cleaning. Unfortunately, gum disease has no cure, so it's important to act quickly if you're noticing the signs and symptoms of gingivitis.  

Contact your Rocktown Family Dental Care team online or at (540) 705-0102 if it's time to book your next dental appointment or if you suspect early signs of gum disease. 

There are four types of dental cleaning: prophylaxis (prophy), scaling and root planing, periodontal maintenance, and full debridement. At Rocktown Family Dental Care, we tailor the type of dental cleaning to meet your unique needs. 

4 Types of Dental Cleanings

• Prophylaxis — Also called a “prophy,” this routine preventive cleaning helps you maintain your oral health. During a prophy, our hygienist checks for signs of gum disease and removes plaque, tartar, and surface stains. We recommend this cleaning for those who want to maintain their healthy smile. 
• Scaling and root planing — If you have gum disease and pockets around your teeth, we might recommend scaling and root planing. This is a deep cleaning where our hygienist gently clears plaque and tartar from above and below the gumline (scaling) and smooths root surfaces (planing) to help gums reattach to the teeth. 
• Periodontal maintenance — If you have had gum disease treatment, a maintenance cleaning is a crucial follow-up. This customized cleaning helps ensure your gums remain healthy and reduces the risk of recurring periodontal disease.
• Full debridement —  We recommend this procedure for those who haven't had a cleaning for an extended period. By clearing away significant plaque and tartar buildup, we can more accurately evaluate your oral health and develop a comprehensive treatment plan.

Which Dental Cleaning Is Right for Me?

Dr. Anderson will carefully evaluate your gum health and explain the type of cleaning she recommends to help you maintain optimal oral health. If you have gum disease, she and our hygienists will work with you to create a plan to treat it and restore your gums to full health.

Please call our friendly Harrisonburg, VA, dental office to schedule an appointment. 

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder is a condition stemming from factors, including jaw misalignment and stress-induced grinding of teeth and clenching of the jaw, that affect the joint and muscles that control jaw movement. Both the duration of TMJ disorder and the severity of its effects can vary significantly from person to person.

TMJ symptoms, including jaw pain, difficulty chewing, and a clicking or popping sound in the jaw, can persist from a few days to weeks to months or even years! The severity of symptoms can vary similarly, with some individuals experiencing mild, temporary discomfort while others endure chronic and more painful symptoms.

TMJ Treatment Options

Addressing TMJ often involves a combination of lifestyle changes and professional intervention. Conservative treatment methods include applying heat or cold packs, relaxation techniques (like meditation or yoga) to alleviate stress, and avoiding especially hard, sticky, or chewy foods.

Dental solutions, meanwhile, include the use of a nightguard to offset the effects of teeth grinding during sleep and jaw misalignment. In more severe cases, physical therapy and surgery may be recommended. Ultimately, consulting a dental professional for a tailored approach is the key to effective TMJ treatment.

Efficient and Effective TMJ Treatment in Harrisonburg, VA

If you’re in the Harrisburg area, think you may be suffering from TMJ, and would like to learn more about your various treatment options, contact dentist Dr. Joan Anderson and the team at Rocktown Family Dental Care to schedule a consultation.