Ryan M. Buckwalter, DDS, FICOI, FAGD

1420 Greenbrier Place
Charlottesville, VA 22901

434.973.2224

Blog

4 Common Causes of Jaw Pain and When You Should Be Concerned

Jaw pain can disrupt your daily life by making eating, speaking, and smiling painful. While some people may live with this discomfort for extended periods, jaw pain is abnormal and should not be ignored. Understanding the common causes—such as bruxism, impacted wisdom teeth, and gum disease—enables you to seek professional help, which may include consulting […]

Tips for a Healthy Smile at Every Age

Although specific dental needs shift and develop as we age, maintaining one’s oral health is a lifelong commitment for all. Strong teeth and gums are crucial to our overall well-being from our first baby teeth to our golden years. So, let’s review dental care tips for every phase of life and discuss how regular appointments […]

5 Early Signs of a Cavity and What to Do Next

Cavities can sneak up on you, but recognizing their early warning signs can save you from discomfort and costly dental procedures. While regular dental cleanings and checkups are essential, staying aware of potential symptoms between visits can help you catch a cavity early on. If you or your loved ones notice changes in your oral […]

How Cosmetic Dentistry Can Transform Your Gummy Smile

How Cosmetic Dentistry Can Transform Your Gummy Smile Although standard dental hygiene will keep your oral health in check, it may not result in the smile of your dreams. Regular brushing, flossing, and check-ups can keep teeth white, but they can’t reduce excessive gum tissue, the cause of a gummy smile). While such a smile […]

5 Reasons Why You Should Visit a General Dentist

While some people only visit a dentist when they have a toothache, they and everyone else can benefit from routine dentist appointments. After all, oral health is essential for maintaining overall well-being, and regular dental visits ensure your smile stays bright and healthy. So, use general dentistry services for preventative care, oral health education, disease […]

The Most Common Dental Emergencies

Whether an excruciating toothache wakes you in the middle of the night or a soccer ball knocks a tooth out of your mouth, dental disasters can strike at any time. While a dull toothache or painless chip can wait for office hours, significant pain or bleeding demands emergency care. Stay calm and trust the right […]

4 Common Dental Problems for Seniors

Even if we spend a lifetime taking good care of our teeth, dental problems can still develop with age. Though retirees may not regard professional dental care as a top priority, regular cleanings and checkups can prevent disease and improve well-being all the same. From frustrating inconveniences like dry mouth to serious conditions like gum […]

Why are Wisdom Teeth Extracted?

Wisdom teeth extraction is among the most common surgical procedures in the US, with over 5 million people receiving it yearly. Yet, despite the procedure’s frequency, some individuals are unfamiliar with the reasons for seeking it. Improperly grown or neglected wisdom teeth can cause severe jaw, gum, and tooth pain. For these reasons (and more), […]

4 Benefits of Regular Family Dentist Visits to Hillcrest Dental

While you may believe you and your kids should visit separate dentists, the reality is that opting for comprehensive family dentistry fosters open communication and trust with those closest to you. Children are comforted by such familiarity, and you will have opportunities to discuss your family’s oral health with an expert. Along with our convenience […]

Hillcrest Dental’s Top Dental Tips for Healthy Teeth and Gums

We’re midway through the holiday season’s festivities, which means our teeth have already faced an assault of sweets and rich foods! This time of year calls for proactive dental care, and Hillcrest Dental’s expert team recommends careful brushing, flossing, hydration, and much more. Don’t forget to make an appointment at the top dental practice in […]

Get the Most Out of Your Dental Checkup with Hillcrest Dental

Neglecting oral hygiene can deteriorate overall health, making regular dental checkups an essential wellness treatment. Though most dental checkups last only 45 minutes, you should make the most of your brief visit. By following recommended oral health practices at home, coming prepared for your appointment, and being communicative with your provider, you can maximize your […]

All the Essential Services Your Local Dentist Can Provide You

Although some people hold an irrational fear of doing so, visiting your local dentist is essential for maintaining your oral health and well-being. Whether you have concerns about your smile, are experiencing tooth pain, or are overdue for a regular check-up, general dentistry services can address your oral health needs. From dental fillings to teeth […]

How to Achieve a Perfect Smile with Cosmetic Dentistry Services

As schoolchildren, we learn the importance of brushing our teeth and visiting the dentist: doing so protects our physical health, smiles, and confidence. Yet we may not realize an entire branch of dentistry is geared toward improving teeth’s appearance. Cosmetic dentistry services are treatments—such as whitening, veneers, and enamel-colored fillings—that achieve a dazzling smile. If […]

How to Choose the Right Family Dental Plan for Your Family’s Needs

Choosing a family dental plan is a complicated, multifaceted process. Yet making an informed decision on which family dental plans best fit your needs requires you to consider all the different factors, including costs, preventative care options, and customer reviews. Although you may worry that these considerations will overwhelm you with choices, they can aid […]

How to Care for Your Teeth without Dental Insurance

Dental care should be a priority for everyone, even those who cannot afford dental insurance. Without proper maintenance, oral health problems can undermine your overall well-being. The good news is that affordable uninsured dental care options exist and can prevent many problems. Implementing good oral hygiene, adjusting your diet, and finding low-cost dental care can […]

When is Dental Bleaching Necessary?

More than 50% of Americans have anxiety over their teeth’s appearance. Chipped, missing, or yellowing teeth can give us feelings of shame and insecurity about our smiles’ appearance, tanking our confidence. Thankfully, dentists offer many treatments for just such issues. Dental bleaching, for example, is a low-maintenance option that whitens teeth to create a dazzling […]

What to Do If You Dislodge Your Tooth

Among the most critical parts of every tooth is something you cannot see: the dental or tooth pulp. This living tissue resides in the root canals of teeth and contains blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue. Yet like any other part of teeth, the dental pulp can suffer trauma. Individuals with broken, knocked-out, or dislodged […]

When You May Need a Root Canal & How to Prevent Such Problems

Among the possible treatments for dental problems, root canals hold a place of notoriety. They entail significant time and several tools, and many patients erroneously believe the process is painful. Yet a root canal treatment is necessary to treat dental cavities that receive no care over long periods. Therefore, you can avoid the need for […]

When is Sleep Apnea Treatment Necessary?

Humans are asleep for one-third of their lives. Therefore, an individual who lives to 80 spends approximately 26 years just resting! Yet that sleep must be restful and relaxing before you can enjoy its rejuvenating benefits. But sleep apnea can get in the way of a good night’s rest. Characterized by persistent snoring, insomnia, and […]

5 Reasons You May Be Experiencing Toothaches

More than 40% of adults experience mouth pain annually. Yet toothaches, in particular, may range from mild discomfort to severe, stabbing pain, interrupting individuals’ daily lives. Toothaches may spring from tooth decay, a broken tooth, or wisdom teeth lacking room to grow. To prevent their discomfort from worsening or spreading to other parts of the […]

Keeping Your Dental Health in Great Shape as You Age

Over the past several decades, medical care and disease prevention advancements have lifted Americans’ average life expectancy to new heights. Even though the pandemic slightly eroded that appraisal, people live longer now than in centuries past. Yet this trend comes with challenges to dental health and related medical conditions. As individuals age, their incidence of […]

Fluoride-Free Toothpaste vs. Fluoride Toothpaste

Fluoride occurs naturally in Earth’s crust; therefore, most drinkable water is fluoridated to some degree. Yet fluoride can also be added to drinking water manually, and some local officials choose to do so. This substance can prevent tooth decay and, in small doses, strengthen tooth enamel to prevent cavities. Fluoride is also found in most […]

The Holidays Are Coming: 4 Dental Hygiene Tips

The season of endless sweets and treats is upon us, during which many people neglect to care for their teeth. Yet everyone’s teeth are at risk of cavities and weak enamel due to the number of sugary foods and drinks available. Still, preventative measures can be put in place to promote oral health: a vigorous […]

7 Reasons You Need a Mouth Guard

Although your teeth must last a lifetime, many people begin to experience dental problems after a couple of decades. Up to 3 out of 10 people clench or grind their teeth while sleeping. This tendency—bruxism—can be insidious, as its symptoms develop gradually and often go unnoticed. Over time, clenching your jaw and grinding your teeth […]

Everything You Should Know About Dental Implants

Receiving dental implants can have a profound impact on your life. Usually applied to replace teeth, these implants offer aesthetic and functional benefits for appropriate patients. Although a few risks come with their installation, dental professionals work hard to mitigate them and deliver on these devices’ benefits. If you wish to have dental implants installed, […]

Dental Veneers: Do You Need Them?

If you’re insecure about your teeth or are afraid to smile, you’re not alone. Over one-third of Americans are unhappy with their smile. Nevertheless, several options—besides general dentistry services—exist that can improve the appearance of your teeth, one of which is dental veneers. A dentist can discuss this prospect with you once you’ve learned what […]

How to Handle Dental Emergencies

Dental emergencies present a significant risk for everyone. Indeed, in 2018, over 2 million emergency room visits were dental-related. For that reason, you should know how to handle a dental emergency if one arises. From toothaches to knocked-out teeth, learn the proper steps to manage any emergency dental situation. Most important of all, should an […]

5 Signs You Need Professional Teeth Whitening

5 Signs You Need Professional Teeth Whitening A simple and accessible cosmetic dentistry service, teeth whitening can improve virtually any smile. This treatment fights teeth-staining, a naturally occurring process that affects us all as we age. Keep an eye out for the signs of staining—such as teeth discoloration, difficulty with oral health, and more—and contact […]

Gum Disease Symptoms & Prevention Tips

Almost half of adults aged 30 years and older have some form of gum disease, increasing their risk for tooth loss, heart disease, stroke, diabetes, respiratory problems, and more. Symptoms include red, swollen, or receding gums as well as bad breath, loose teeth, and more. Fortunately, a professional family dentist can detect these symptoms and […]

Benefits of Straighter Teeth

Given the costs of orthodontic and cosmetic dentistry, you may hesitate to invest in these teeth-straightening treatments. But what are the benefits of having straight teeth beside a better-looking smile? Professional cosmetic dentistry services can improve your oral health, reduce dental wear and tear, save you money over the long term, and give you clearer […]

When Is a Root Canal Necessary?

                    Do symptoms like toothaches, a dental injury, or other signs call for a root canal? Perhaps not on their own, but you should also remain alert for pain or sensitivity in one or more teeth as well as swelling, darkening, decay, or tenderness in the […]

6 Reasons to Visit the Dentist Besides Teeth Cleaning

                  When you go for a dental check-up, your dentist may spend the majority of the time cleaning your teeth. However, several other motives should spur your visits, even if your dentist does not mention them. See a dental professional so they can check for cavities and […]

The Amazing Results of Cosmetic Dental Treatments

                      Crowns, veneers, braces, whitening, bridges—these are the tools of cosmetic dentistry. While teeth may grow in crooked (or suffer damage from an accident), a professional cosmetic dentist can mend them into a perfect smile. Dentists’ treatments close gaps, correct teeth’s appearance, and allow everyone […]

Dental Health & Sleep Apnea

                    Losing sleep is frustrating, but it becomes more so when you cannot find the cause. If you’re losing sleep, you should be aware that dental health can cause some sleep disorders by disrupting breathing patterns. Obstructive Sleep Apnea is the most common dental-related form of […]

6 Types of Dental Trauma

Dental trauma occurs in many forms—chipped enamel, a loose tooth, or a displaced tooth. When you or your loved one receives a traumatic dental injury, it is vital that you work with a  a top dental professional. If addressed in a timely manner, they’ll be able to mend the injury and restore your teeth to […]

5 Benefits of Cosmetic Dentistry

Cosmetic dental treatments offer many direct and passive benefits. Patients gain a new sense of confidence thanks to their clear, bright smiles. Dentists prevent and fix defects before they develop into worse conditions. So, while some might say that quality cosmetic dentistry services are vain, the right team of dental professionals can ensure you receive […]

What Can Be Considered a Dental Emergency?

A dental emergency calls for immediate medical attention, specifically when the condition involves bleeding, incessant pain, and other symptoms. You can avoid most dental emergencies by maintaining your hygiene, but certain cases require immediate action. In those times, you need to know which practice offers attentive emergency dental services so that you can receive treatment […]

What Kind of Dental Treatment Do I Need?

5 common procedures cover almost all of the problems that people go to a general dentist for. These procedures, such as fillings and crowns could be seen as several types of dental services, depending on the issue that you visit the dentist for. If you need professional dental care in Crozet, VA, then Hillcrest Dental […]

Financing Options at Hillcrest Dentist

Figuring out the cost of your dental treatment can get complicated. That is why we want to help you finance your service depending on your individual needs and treatment plan. We are experienced professionals who want to assess your dental concerns and act accordingly. For those who are looking for a dentist in Charlottesville, VA, […]

What is Cosmetic Dentistry?

Many people may not realize it, but there are different types of dentistry. For instance, general dentistry services involve common treatments like cleanings, fillings, and dental check-ups. Reliable cosmetic dentistry services focus on improving the appearance of one’s teeth and gums. Seasoned dental practices like Hillcrest Dental provide as many of these services as possible […]

What Does General Dentistry Include?

General dentistry includes a range of services including dental diagnoses and treatments to help you adequately manage your overall oral health. Your dentist may provide treatments on your gums as well as specific services such as root canals, fillings, crowns, veneers, bridges, preventative guidance and more. Connect with your professional general dentistry near the Monticello, […]

What Problems Can Cosmetic Dentistry Fix?

Your smile is as distinct as your fingerprint. Every tooth in it not only grew in differently but has also received particular wear-and-tear. So, creating your perfect smile will require careful consideration. Thankfully, cosmetic dentistry services can correct common oral ailments: plaque stains, chipped teeth, uneven gums, and more. If you are unhappy with your […]

What To Expect When Considering Oral Surgery

Receiving oral surgery should seem like a pretty daunting event, but knowing what to expect can help ease your mind and ensure you recover quickly and comfortably. If you are considering oral surgery, start by discussing with your dentist what to expect. At Hillcrest Dental, we want to help our patients to understand as much […]

4 Signs That You have Gum Disease

Your gums are an important aspect of your dental health. Their condition is closely connected with your teeth but also your overall dental health. Signs of gum disease (also known as periodontal disease) can indicate serious issues with your teeth, and perhaps even your overall health. If not addressed properly, gum disease can lead to […]

7 Fun Facts About Flossing

Our teeth are just  as important as other parts of our body, but sometimes we may not always feel like taking care of our teeth. As it is part of getting a perfect, pearly-white smile, you should pay attention to how you floss. Flossing is an important step of oral care, in which you make […]

How Crooked Teeth Can Affect Your Life

Having crooked teeth isn’t something that just happens, but it can affect your life drastically if not taken care of. Being much more than an aesthetic issue, crooked teeth could lead to more problems the more time they are left unaddressed. The easiest solution is to make your teeth a priority and to make an […]

How Does Coffee Affect Your Teeth

In the world of cosmetic dentists, one of the most widespread issues that people have with their teeth these days is the discoloration or stains produced by the various foods and beverages they consume on a daily basis. The most common of these is coffee, a beverage that’s consumed regularly by people all around the […]

Home Remedies for Sensitive Teeth

Having sensitive teeth can sometimes make eating and drinking a painful experience. However, certain home remedies may help reduce tooth sensitivity. If you are experiencing tooth sensitivity that won’t go away, come to the professionals at Hillcrest Dental in Charlottesville VA. We care deeply for all of our patients, and that’s why we believe in […]

Benefits of Whitening Your Teeth

The hassles of daily living can occasionally result in the loss of a physical aspect we desire to keep, such as getting proper sleep, keeping a healthy diet, and having bright, white teeth. While some of these require changes in your personal habits, the shade of your teeth can be improved with the help of […]

The Benefits of Having Braces

Braces may be a daunting experience; however, the lasting effects will improve your overall oral and physical health. In addition to improving the aesthetics of your smile, the alignment of your teeth impacts several aspects of your health. At Hillcrest Dental, we specialize in a variety of services including general dental care, oral surgery, and […]

Four Differences Between A Manual Toothbrush & A Powered Toothbrush

The very first thing we do each morning and the last thing we do at night are often the same: performing our personal hygiene regimens. This involves using a variety of different tools, such as soaps, moisturizers, loofahs, hair dryers, and brushes. The most essential of them would likely be your toothbrush. With so many […]

What Causes Bad Breath?

As it’s unpleasant for someone to smell bad breath and even more so embarrassing for another person to have it, it’s crucial to provide your teeth with the proper care they need on a daily-basis to help prevent it. That’s why it is important to know the various ways bad breath develops, so that you […]

Top Foods & Drinks that Can Stain Your Teeth

While it is important to obtain a pearly white smile to keep your teeth in the best shape possible, maintaining great oral health can be challenging especially if our favorite foods are known to cause stains. Certain types of foods and beverages can allow stains to form on our enamel causing them to appear yellow […]

New Year, New You! Things Your Dental Hygienist Wants You To Know

Dental hygiene is an important part of your overall health and making stellar dental care one of your resolutions for 2019 will lead to a great year and great future. Hillcrest Dental wants to make sure you remember a few important things about maintaining all your important dental health this coming year. Daily Brushing Brushing […]

How to Protect Your Teeth From Cavities

The holiday season is full of food, friends, family and fun. You will probably have multiple feasts during this time of celebration with a multitude of food and sweets. While you may not be very focused on clean eating, you should still be wary about the possible dental problems you may face during the holidays […]

Four Oral Hygiene Tips for the Holidays

It’s that time of the year again! The holidays have arrived and what comes with the holidays? Continuing a healthy dental care routine, of course! We know it’s a time everyone looks forward to as we have been waiting for those special desserts and drinks that we love so much. However, we must be careful […]

DENTISTRY FROM THE HEART

Dentistry From The Heart is an outreach program passionate about reaching patients with oral health needs, giving them smile makeovers including: exams, cleanings, fillings, etc. is just the beginning. A day could begin with people waiting in line as early as 12:10am, eager to meet a doctor as soon as the facility doors open – knowing that it would […]

  • "I am very pleased with how my appointment went yesterday. Everyone was really friendly. They explained everything to me about the procedure and stayed late to assure I was comfortable with the work I had done. Dr Ryan Buckwalter and his assistants were awesome. I highly recommend them for any dental work. Thank you."

    Donnette M.

  • "I was having toothache pain in my lower jaw. I called the next day to make an appointment and was given an appointment time for the very next day. I saw Dr. Ryan, who is knowledgeable, caring and has great people skills with his patients. I made another appointment to come back and have the work done."

    Denise K.

  • “Dr. Buckwalter and his assistant did a wonderful job with our 8 year old today. While they were busy talking teeth, my 3 year old was enjoying his new lip balm and balloon! Finished up with a treat from Starbucks with our gift card. So glad our kiddos don’t fear the dentist. More like they want to keep stopping in."

    Logan D.

  • “Unbelievable experience with Dr. Ryan Buckwalter. Night and Day difference from my last dental experience with another dentist. I no longer fear the dentist!”

    David S.