General Dentistry

General dentistry is a branch of medicine that focuses on maintaining and improving the overall health of your teeth, gums, and mouth. This type of dentistry includes various procedures and treatments that are aimed at preventing and treating common oral health problems, such as cavities, gum disease, and bad breath.

One of the most important services offered by a general dentist is regular check-ups and cleanings. During these appointments, your dentist will examine your mouth for signs of oral health problems, such as cavities, gum disease, and oral cancer. They will also clean your teeth to remove plaque and tartar buildup, which can lead to tooth decay and gum disease if left untreated.

Another common service offered by general dentists is cavity fillings. If you have a cavity, your dentist will remove the decayed portion of your tooth and fill the hole with a dental filling, such as a silver amalgam, composite resin, or gold. This will help to restore the strength and function of your tooth, and prevent further decay.

For those with gum disease, a general dentist may recommend a deep cleaning procedure known as scaling and root planing. During this procedure, your dentist will clean the surfaces of your teeth and gums, removing plaque and tartar buildup and smoothing the roots of your teeth to promote healthy gum growth.

In addition to these common procedures, general dentists may also offer cosmetic dentistry services, such as teeth whitening and veneers. Teeth whitening can help to brighten your smile and remove unsightly stains, while veneers are thin shells of porcelain or composite resin that are placed over the front surfaces of your teeth to improve their appearance.

If you are missing one or more teeth, a general dentist may recommend dental implants. Dental implants are artificial teeth roots that are surgically implanted into your jawbone. Once the implants have bonded with your bone, your dentist will attach a custom-made crown to the implant, restoring the look, feel, and function of your missing tooth.

In addition to these specific procedures, general dentists play an important role in educating their patients about good oral hygiene practices. This may include teaching you how to properly brush and floss your teeth, as well as how to maintain a balanced diet that supports your oral health.

If you are in need of general dentistry services, it is important to find a dentist who you can trust and who has experience in the specific procedures you require. Look for a dentist who is up-to-date with the latest advancements in dental technology and dedicated to providing the highest level of patient care. For those with dentistry fears, many offices are now beginning to cover services through light sedation to help ensure maximum patient comfort!

General dentistry plays a crucial role in maintaining and improving your oral health. By seeking regular check-ups and cleanings, as well as treatment for common oral health problems, you can help to keep your smile healthy, functional, and beautiful for years to come.