A Dentist Who Cares About All of You
Because your mouth is connected to the rest of your body.
Welcome to LIFE A.I.D. We're a dental practice in Alexandria that does things a little differently. We take time to know you. We use modern tools to catch problems early. And we treat you like a whole person — not just a set of teeth. Our goal is simple: help you feel better, look better, and stay healthier for the long run.
Years of advanced study
Same-day care when you need it
We look at the big picture
Ask about our membership plan
Is this the right dentist for you?
If you've ever felt rushed at the dentist — like just another mouth on the schedule — we get it. Here, things are different. We take the time to know you, listen to what's going on, and explain things in plain language. A healthy mouth can make a real difference in how you feel every day, and we love being part of that.
You'll feel right at home here if:
- You care about staying healthy — and want a dentist who thinks the same way
- It's been a while since your last visit, and you're ready to start over
- You want teeth that look natural and work well — not just fixed up
- The dentist has made you nervous in the past, and you need someone patient
- You've been dealing with jaw pain, headaches, or a bad bite — and want real answers
Three things you can count on.
From the moment you walk in to the moment you leave — here's what you can expect from us.
We Care About Your Whole Health
Your mouth isn't separate from the rest of you. What happens in your gums can affect your heart, your blood sugar, even how well you sleep. We look at all of it — and build a plan that fits your life, not just your teeth.
Better Tech, Better Results
We use 3D scans, digital X-rays, and tiny cameras that show what's happening inside your mouth. It means we catch things early, treat them more accurately, and surprise you less. You'll see exactly what we see.
A Visit That Feels Different
Not many people love going to the dentist. We've thought about every part of your visit — the chair, the welcome, how we talk to you — so it actually feels good to be here. Comfort isn't extra. It's built in.
Dr. Charissa Chin
Columbia University trained · Fellow, Academy of General Dentistry · Fellow, International Congress of Oral Implantologists
Dr. Chin became a dentist for a simple reason: she wanted to help people feel better. For her, dentistry has always been about the person in the chair, not just the tooth. That's something you'll notice the moment you meet her.
After dental school, Dr. Chin spent two extra years getting advanced training at Columbia University and a hospital affiliated with the University of Massachusetts Medical School. That training means she's comfortable caring for patients with complex medical needs — not just the easy cases.
She's also earned two prestigious Fellowships, which take years of additional study to achieve. But what she's most proud of is the trust her patients place in her. When she's not at the office, you'll find her cooking, working in her vegetable garden, and living the same healthy life she encourages in everyone she sees.
Everything your smile needs, in one place.
From regular cleanings to full smile makeovers — most people would have to visit several specialists for the care you can get right here.
Cleanings & Check-Ups
Regular visits to keep your teeth and gums healthy. We'll spot small problems before they become big ones — and help you build a routine that works.
02Gum Care
Gum disease is sneaky — and surprisingly common. We treat it gently and effectively, which can also help reduce inflammation in the rest of your body.
03Help for Jaw Pain (TMJ)
Sore jaw? Headaches? Clicking when you chew? We dig into the real cause and find gentle ways to give you relief — without rushing to anything drastic.
04Dental Implants
The best way to replace a missing tooth. Implants look natural, feel natural, and last for years. We handle the whole process from start to finish.
05Full Smile Makeovers
If your smile needs more than a few touch-ups, we'll put together one plan that handles everything — beautifully and in the right order.
06Veneers & Cosmetic Work
For a brighter, more even smile that still looks like you. Dr. Chin's cosmetic work is known for looking completely natural — never fake.
07Invisalign
Straighten your teeth without metal braces. Clear, removable, and comfortable — you can take them out to eat or brush. Most people barely notice them.
08Root Canals
Yes, really. Modern root canals aren't what they used to be — most people say they're easier than getting a filling. We focus on keeping you comfortable.
09Crowns & Bridges
Strong, beautiful repairs for damaged or missing teeth. They look like the real thing and let you bite, chew, and smile with confidence.
Your mouth tells us a lot about your health.
For a long time, dentists treated the mouth like it was separate from the rest of the body. We now know that's not true. What's happening in your mouth can affect your heart, your blood sugar, and how well you sleep.
That's why Dr. Chin looks at the whole picture — and works with your other doctors when it helps. It's a smarter way to care for you, and it's just how we do things here.
Schedule a VisitGum Health & Your Heart
Gum disease has been linked to a higher risk of heart problems and stroke. Healthy gums help keep inflammation down throughout your body.
Mouth Health & Diabetes
If you have diabetes, poor oral health can make blood sugar harder to manage — and diabetes makes gum problems worse. It goes both ways.
Jaw Pain & Everyday Comfort
Many headaches, neck aches, and sleep problems actually start in the jaw. People often suffer for years before anyone connects the dots.
Breathing & Sleep
The shape of your mouth and airway can affect how well you breathe — especially at night. Better breathing means better sleep and more energy.
We're here when it hurts.
Tooth pain doesn't wait — and neither do we. If you have a bad toothache, broken tooth, lost crown or filling, or a swollen jaw, just call. We save room in our schedule every day for people who need us right away, and we'll do everything we can to see you the same day.
(703) 253-7399Book OnlineYou're in good company.
A lot of our patients used to dread coming to the dentist. Some hadn't been in years. We get it — and we don't rush, push, or judge. We'll explain everything before we do it, take breaks whenever you need one, and go at your pace. Always.
- Warm blankets and neck pillows in every room
- Noise-canceling headphones if you'd like them
- Honest, no-pressure conversations about your options
- A team trained to make nervous patients feel safe
Good dental care should be within reach.
Whether you have dental insurance or not, we'll help you figure out the best way to pay. And you'll always know what things cost before we start — no surprises.
Have insurance? We'll help you use it.
We're not in your insurance company's network — but that doesn't mean you're on your own. Our team handles your paperwork, files your claims, and helps you get back as much as your plan allows. You focus on getting healthy. We'll handle the rest.
Things people often ask us.
What does "integrated dentistry" mean, exactly?
It just means we look at the bigger picture. Instead of only thinking about your teeth, we also think about how your mouth might be affecting (or being affected by) things like diabetes, heart health, or chronic headaches. We tailor your care to your whole self — and sometimes we’ll talk with your other doctors to make sure everyone’s working together. That’s it.
Do you take my dental insurance?
We’re not in-network with most insurance plans — but that doesn’t mean you can’t use your benefits here. We’ll file your claims for you and help you get back as much as your plan allows. If you don’t have insurance, ask us about our in-house membership plan. It’s a simple way to save without all the usual hoops.
I'm nervous about the dentist. Will I be okay here?
Yes — and you’re not alone. A lot of our patients haven’t been to a dentist in years because of bad experiences. We get that, and we move slowly. We explain everything first, take breaks whenever you need them, and we never push you into anything. You’ll find warm blankets, neck pillows, and headphones at every chair to help you relax.
Can you help with jaw pain or a bad bite?
Absolutely — this is one of Dr. Chin’s specialties. If you’ve got jaw pain, headaches, clicking when you chew, or a bite that just feels off, come in. We’ll figure out what’s actually causing it and start with the simplest, gentlest treatment that works. Many of our patients have been to other dentists or doctors for years without answers — and finally find relief here.
How do I become a new patient?
It’s easy. Call us at (703) 253-7399 or fill out the form below to request your first visit. We’ll send you a few simple forms ahead of time and ask you to arrive 15 minutes early so we can get you settled. From there, we’ll take it from the top.
We'd love to meet you.
Whether you're brand new to the dentist, coming back after some time away, or just looking for something better — we're glad you found us. Fill out the form and we'll get back to you within one business day.
Prefer to call? You can reach us at the number below — a real person will answer.
Schedule an Appointment
Serving Alexandria and the neighborhoods around it.
You'll find us at 6354 Walker Lane, Suite 102 — right across from the Inova Healthplex in Franconia/Springfield. Easy to get to, with plenty of parking. We welcome patients from all over Northern Virginia and the D.C. area.