Steven A. Castro, D.D.S.
Frequently Asked Questions


What would I expect at my first appointment at your office?

  • A complete review of your medical and dental history
  • We will take necessary digital x-rays
  • Dr. Castro or his Associate will do a thorough exam
  • Dr. Castro or his Associate, along with the patient, will determine a course of treatment based on patient's needs

Click Here to find the necessary forms to complete prior to your visit

If your previous dentist has digital x-rays, you may request that they be emailed to: stevencastrodds@comcast.net

Most insurance is accepted and filed for you.
Occasionally treatment can be done the same day

When should my child first see a dentist?

"First visit by first birthday" sums it up.  Your child should visit a dentist when the first tooth comes in, usually between six and twelve months of age.  An early examination at Dr. Castro and preventative care will protect your child's smile now and in the future. For more answers about your baby's dental care, call us.


What Works Best For Cavity Prevention?

Fluoride has been a great benefit to patients of all ages in helping prevent dental decay.  Regular brushing and flossing lowers the chance of developing "cavities."
For most patients the most decay-prone areas of teeth are generally the grooves and depressions on the chewing surfaces of the back teeth, which require preventive care.
To prevent decay, a plastic-like coating called a sealant should be painted on the these surfaces of all the back teeth. Studies have shown that sealants can reduce tooth decay by as much as 90% to 100%.
The American Dental Association recommends that sealants be placed as soon as the first permanent back teeth come in at age 6 or 7.  Sealants should continue to be used on permanent back teeth.  All molar teeth that need to be sealed are generally present by the age 13.  Sealant application is simple, painless and very quick.   Please call our office with any questions you may have about the benefits using a sealant in preventing dental decay.

How Can Cosmetic Dentistry Benefit Me?

Silver fillings can be replaced with white tooth fillings.  Some people have had silver fillings placed into their teeth because of "cavities".  These silver fillings are called amalgams.  Amalgam are used to fill the space where the decay in the tooth has been removed. However, over time, the amalgam corrodes and leaks which blackens the silver, and often times can create more damage to the tooth.  In our practice, we generally use composite fillings that are made of a porcelain-like material that  bonds to the tooth for a tight seal. Thanks to innovative dentistry, they are strong, stain-resistant, and are color-matched to the natural tooth.  Please don't hesitate to call us with any questions you may have about the benefits of replacing silver amalgam fillings with composite fillings.

What Is A Porcelain Veneer?

The veneer is actually a thin piece of porcelain similar in size to a fingernail.  They are used to make teeth wider, or lengthen a short tooth.   Once it is "bonded" onto the tooth it becomes extremely strong.  The veneer will blend in with the remaining tooth structure so that it is unnoticeable to the naked-eye.  Once in place, it looks, feels, and functions just like a regular tooth.  Please call us or ask any team member about the benefits of porcelain veneers.


What Is A Crown?

Teeth are often restored with fillings of silver or composite plastics.  However, over a period of time, there comes a point where the damage to the tooth has removed too much structure to hold a filling, and this is when a crown is needed. The crown is the dental restoration that can strengthen and restore the entire top of a tooth. The crown can also be part of the attachment of a fixed bridge for the replacement of teeth. The tooth is strengthened because it is covered from the outside with a casting of metal or ceramic that will wrap up and splint the tooth.
The chewing of the tooth can be improved because it can be reshaped to match more efficiently with the opposing teeth. A crown can improve cosmetics by the use of modern ceramic processes that produce translucency and color that is more natural than has ever been possible.



2930 West Hundred Road Chester, Virginia 23831
Office - 804.751.0146   Fax - 804.768.4283