Dr. Paige Gaznavi earned her Bachelor of Arts and Sciences degree from George Mason University in Virginia. She received her Doctorate of Dental Surgery from the University of Maryland, school of dental medicine in Baltimore. Dr. Gaznavi continued her training as a General Practice Resident at Maimonides Medical Center in Brooklyn, New York. Dr. Gaznavi is committed to quality, individualized dental care and patient comfort. She understands that some patients are apprehensive about dental treatment and will offer options to help alleviate these concerns, and help the patients achieve their dental goals. Dr. Gaznavi is committed to dental excellence and continuing dental education and advanced studies in cosmetic dentistry.

Philosophy of CareThe team at Rock Creek Dental Center believe in the importance of preventative care. We focus on keeping patients in good oral health so that they can live a full, healthy, and enjoyable life that is free from oral pain. This starts by educating our patients on what they can do to stay healthy at home. In our family dentist office we recommend that patients eat a healthy diet that consists of green leafy vegetables, lean protein, nuts, dairy products, and crunchy fruits and veggies. Eating these foods along with drinking water can help to keep teeth healthy and make them stronger. By simultaneously reducing sugar intake, patients can also reduce their risk of cavities.

It is also important to brush and floss throughout the day. Instead of waiting for bedtime to brush teeth, carry a small toothbrush and use it after meals and snacks. This makes it possible to remove sugar and bacteria from the teeth and gums before it has the opportunity to turn into acid that can attack the teeth. This preventative step can greatly reduce a persons risk of getting a cavity or gum disease. We understand the importance of taking these steps at home and will spend the time necessary to educate and inform patients so that they can stay healthy overall. Education, after all, is essential for living a long and healthy life.

Understanding the importance of these regular dental exams, the staff at Rock Creek Dental Center work to make each patient extremely comfortable. This includes being welcoming and kind while performing dental treatments in a way that is painless and relaxing. Patients visit our dentist office because they trust us to do just that take care of their teeth and gums, gently. The majority of our patients are local and come from the greater Rockville area, we also see patients that are looking for gentle dental care.

Seniors, on the other hand, often struggle with gum disease and oral infections. As people age, their teeth can become weaker and infected more easily. Bone loss is incredibly common with seniors and by conducting regular dental exams, the team at Rock Creek Dental Center can help seniors to have strong teeth and reduce the risk of them falling out. Since over seventy percent of U.S. adults suffer from tooth loss, preventative care is important.

Q: Are baby teeth really that important to my child?A: Primary, or baby, teeth are important for many reasons. Not only do they help children speak clearly and chew naturally, they also aid in forming a path that permanent teeth can follow when they are ready to come in.

Q: What should I do if my child has a toothache?A: First, rinse the irritated area with warm salt water and place a cold compress on the face if it is swollen. Give the child acetaminophen for any pain, rather than placing aspirin on the teeth or gums. Finally, see a dentist as soon as possible.

Q: How do dental sealants work?A: Sealants work by filling in the crevasses on the chewing surfaces of the teeth. This shuts out food particles that could get caught in the teeth, causing cavities. The application is fast and comfortable and can effectively protect teeth for many years.

Q: How do I know if my child is getting enough fluoride?A: Have your family dentist evaluate the fluoride level of your childs primary source of drinking water. If your child is not getting enough fluoride internally through water (especially if the fluoride level is deficient or if your child drinks bottled water without fluoride), then we may prescribe fluoride supplements.

Q: What can I do to protect my teeth during sporting events?A: Soft plastic mouthguards can be used to protect teeth, lips, cheeks and gums from sport related injuries. A custom-fitted mouthguard will protect your teeth from injuries and even provide protection from severe injuries to the head.

Q: How safe are dental X-rays?A: There is very little risk in dental X-rays. Family dentists are especially careful to limit the amount of radiation to which you and your family are exposed. Lead aprons and high-speed film are used to ensure safety and minimize the amount of radiation. Digital x-rays provide an even greater level of protection by using up to 90 percent less radiation.