First Avenue Dental reception wall with logo and mirror reflection

Preventive Dental Care in Knightdale, NC

The most effective dental treatment is the kind that prevents problems before they start.

Dental hygiene products and preventive oral care

What's Included in a Preventive Visit at First Avenue Dental

Most dental problems are predictable — and most are preventable. Cavities, gum disease, and even tooth loss are largely the result of issues that, when caught early, are simple and inexpensive to address. Left undetected, those same issues become significantly more complex and costly.

Routine cleanings and exams aren't just a box to check. They're how we keep your smile healthy year after year and catch anything that needs attention before it escalates.

Dental professional examining a patient with a mirror during a preventive visit

What's Included in a Preventive Visit at First Avenue Dental

We get it, it can be a bit too easy to put off your biannual dental exam and we don't blame you, life gets busy! But remember, skipping your appointments can cost even more time and money in the future. Coming in twice a year allows us to catch small issues before they become time-consuming, expensive problems. Regular check-ups only take about an hour and we assure you that we will make it a comfortable process. Let's keep that smile of yours healthy with our excellent preventive services.

Hygienist performing a professional dental cleaning with a polishing handpiece

Professional Dental Cleaning

Our dental hygienist performs a thorough cleaning that removes plaque and tartar from surfaces your toothbrush and floss can't reliably reach — including along the gum line, where gum disease typically begins.

Tartar can't be removed by brushing alone. Even patients with excellent home hygiene benefit from professional cleaning at regular intervals to stay ahead of buildup.

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Computer monitor displaying a panoramic digital dental X-ray

Digital X-Rays

Digital X-rays let us see between teeth and below the gum line — areas invisible to the naked eye during a visual exam. Our digital system uses significantly less radiation than traditional film X-rays and produces images we can review with you on-screen immediately.

We don't take X-rays at every visit. We follow a schedule based on your individual risk level, history, and clinical needs.

Dental professional applying fluoride treatment to a patient's teeth with a small applicator

Fluoride Treatments

Fluoride is one of the simplest and most effective tools we have against cavities. After your cleaning, we apply a fluoride varnish directly to your teeth — it takes less than a minute and strengthens your enamel against the acids that cause decay. We recommend it for both children and adults.

Dental sealant being applied to a tooth to help prevent decay

Dental Sealants

Dental sealants are a thin protective coating applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth — the area most prone to cavities. The grooves in molars are difficult to clean thoroughly with a toothbrush, making them a prime spot for decay to develop.

The procedure is quick, painless, and requires no drilling. Sealants are most commonly recommended for children, but adults with deep grooves or a higher cavity risk can benefit just as much. With proper care, they can last several years.

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Illustration of teeth with a visible crack in a molar

Dental Emergencies

Dental emergencies don't wait for a convenient time — and neither do we. Whether it's a knocked-out tooth, a cracked crown, or a toothache that won't quit, call us as soon as possible and we'll get you in the same day.

Not sure if what you're experiencing counts as an emergency? Call us anyway. We'd rather talk you through it and find out it's nothing than have you wait on something that needs immediate attention.

Patient showing lower gums that appear red and inflamed during an oral exam

Periodontal Care

Gum disease is one of the most common — and most overlooked — dental conditions. In its early stages it's painless, which means many patients don't realize they have it until it's already progressed.

Left untreated, it can lead to gum recession, bone loss, and eventually tooth loss. It's also been linked to systemic health conditions including heart disease and diabetes.

At First Avenue Dental, we screen for gum disease at every routine visit. If we catch signs of it early, a simple deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) is often all that's needed to get things back on track. If your gums bleed when you brush, look swollen, or if you've noticed persistent bad breath — don't wait. These are early warning signs worth addressing now.

Patient relaxed in a dental chair with a nitrous oxide sedation mask while a team member adjusts equipment

Sedation Options

Dental anxiety is real — and it keeps a lot of people from getting the care they need. If the thought of sitting in the dental chair makes you nervous, we have options that make the experience significantly more manageable.

We offer nitrous oxide (laughing gas) for mild anxiety and oral conscious sedation for patients who need deeper relaxation. You stay awake and aware, but calm and comfortable throughout the entire appointment. We'll walk you through the options and recommend what makes the most sense for your situation.

Ask Us About Sedation Options
Patient with mouth open during an oral cancer screening using a tongue depressor

Oral Cancer Screening — Included at Every Visit

Oral cancer screening is included at every comprehensive exam at First Avenue Dental. Dr. Shaikh examines your gums, tongue, and soft tissues for any abnormalities — lesions, lumps, or discolorations that shouldn't be there.

The screening takes less than two minutes. When caught early, oral cancer is highly treatable. If anything looks unusual, we'll discuss next steps with you clearly and without alarm — most findings turn out to be nothing, but it's always worth checking.

Man sitting on the edge of a bed placing a clear night guard into his mouth

Night Guards

Teeth grinding — known as bruxism — often happens during sleep, which means most patients don't realize they're doing it until they start noticing worn enamel, jaw soreness, or morning headaches.

A custom night guard creates a protective barrier between your upper and lower teeth, absorbing the pressure from grinding and preventing long-term damage. Unlike over-the-counter options, a custom-fitted guard from First Avenue Dental is made from an impression of your own teeth — more comfortable, more durable, and far more effective.

Clear custom-fitted athletic mouthguard resting on a light surface

Sports Guards

A knocked-out or broken tooth from a sports injury is one of the most preventable dental problems there is. A custom-fitted sports guard absorbs impact and protects your teeth, lips, and jaw during any contact or high-impact activity.

Store-bought guards are bulky and uncomfortable — most athletes end up not wearing them. A custom guard from First Avenue Dental fits precisely over your teeth, stays in place, and is thin enough that it won't affect your breathing or performance. If you or your child plays football, basketball, soccer, hockey, rugby, or any sport with collision risk, it's worth having one.

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What Our Patients in Knightdale Are Saying

EXCELLENT

238 five-star reviews on Google. Rated 5.0★ — the highest-rated dental practice in Knightdale, NC.

Tracy Florez

a week ago

Google

From the moment I walked in immediately the greeting was beautiful made you feel welcome The Doctor Dentist assistant was very nice and explained everything well that was going to happen. Kept checking on me making sure I felt comfortable and was OK even offered to hold my hand with made me feel very safe and comfortable The doctor also was very nice and explained everything very well he was very thorough and he had a easy hand even down to the financial part, the lady was so sweet And also willing to work with you with your financing I highly recommend this place to anybody that has anxiety or just hate going to the dentist. Everything was very nice and clean and organized. definitely my experience was five stars and will definitely recommend family and friends

Ahmad Abumohsen

3 weeks ago

Google

I had an excellent experience at First Avenue Dental. The entire team was welcoming, professional, and made me feel comfortable from the moment I walked in. The staff took the time to answer my questions, explain my treatment options, and ensure I felt at ease throughout my visit. The office is clean, modern, and well-organized, and the level of care I received exceeded my expectations. It’s clear that patient comfort and quality treatment are top priorities here. I highly recommend First Avenue Dental to anyone looking for a knowledgeable, caring, and trustworthy dental team in Knightdale.

Sawsan Lecaroz

3 weeks ago

Google

Dr. Shaikh and the entire team at First Avenue Dental are outstanding. From the moment you walk in, everyone is warm, friendly, and genuinely welcoming. What I appreciate most is the attention to detail that Dr. Shaikh and the staff bring to every visit. They take the time to listen, explain everything clearly, and make sure your specific needs are met. You never feel rushed, and it's clear they truly care about their patients. I've always felt anxious and nervous about going to the dentist, but that isn't the case here. The entire team creates a comfortable, supportive environment that puts you at ease. I highly recommend First Avenue Dental to anyone looking for exceptional care and a genuinely positive dental experience.

Rosilyn Mosley

3 months ago

Google

I just wanted to share a quick thank you after my recent dental visit. Dr. Faisal Shaikh and hygienist Page were truly wonderful. I get really nervous about going to the dentist, but they were so kind, patient, and reassuring the entire time. They made sure I was comfortable and helped ease my anxiety, which meant a lot to me. This office really made my visit feel much easier than I expected, and I’m very grateful for the care I received. Thank you to the entire staff at First Avenue Dental for such a positive experience.

Alfred Wadee

4 months ago

Google

I took my 3 year old daughter there and she had such a wonderful time with her visit to the dentisit. The staff are super caring and friendly, they instantly made her enjoy her visit. They worked hard to put us on the calendar in the Christmas season and were attentive to my daughter's visit and follow up. I can't recommend them enough!

K

Krysta Brewer

8 months ago

Google

Excellent service at First Avenue Dental in Knightdale! Dr. Shaikh and his team are always friendly and professional. I had my implant placed here and couldn't be happier — I have my smile back.

Cheryl Burnette

8 months ago

Google

Dr. Shaikh, Shenah, and Ryah were wonderful during my visit today. You cannot find more personable and friendly staff members than at First Avenue Dental in Knightdale, NC. Everyone is always pleasant and friendly. They are the reason that I continue to have teeth in my mouth! 😃

Tia Schultz

8 months ago

Google

Dr. Shaikh walked me through my treatment plan at First Avenue Dental and answered every question. The team worked together seamlessly when we needed to adjust my care — I felt heard the whole visit.

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