4 Common Services Offered In General Dentistry

Dentist Blog

When most people hear of dental health, they automatically think of general dentists. That's because they are the most common, making up about 80% of all dental care providers. The other 20% involves dental specialists like pediatricians, endodontists, oral pathologists, and prosthodontists. 

General dentists provide preventive and restorative services, including teeth cleanings, x-rays, sealants, and cavity fillings. Instead of specializing in one area of dentistry, they are trained to handle a wide range of dental procedures and treatments. They also offer their services to persons of all ages. Here are some services offered in general dentistry. 

Preventive Services

General dentists help to prevent the spread of diseases and infections in teeth and oral structures. By regularly attending your dental checkups, you can significantly improve your dental health. 

During the dental checkup, your dentist conducts x-rays to determine any potential risks to your oral health. If you have tooth decay or cavities, they may perform tooth cleaning or tooth filing to stop or minimize the spread of the decay. They may also offer you professional advice on oral hygiene to boost your oral health. 

Cosmetic Dentistry

General dentists understand that while your oral health is of utmost importance, how you look and smile also plays a major role in your outlook on life. As a result, they provide teeth whitening treatments to improve the color of your teeth and, subsequently, the beauty of your smile. 

If you have a crooked or misaligned tooth, they can install veneers or crowns to cover the tooth and improve your appearance. And, if you're unsure which cosmetic procedure is suitable for you but would like a smile makeover, they will give you expert advice on what's best for you. 

Restorative Services

If your dentist determines that you have an oral condition, like tooth decay or gum disease, they will embark on restorative treatments to get rid of the problem. For tooth decay, the restoration may involve removing the decay and inserting a filing on the affected tooth. 

The treatment for gum disease will determine on its severity. If it's detected early, it may be cured using antibiotics or scaling and root planing. You may also visit a general dentist to get dentures if you have missing teeth. And, if your issue requires the services of a specialist, they will refer you to where you can get help. 

Overall Health Improvement

Your dental health is vital for your overall health. Various diseases, including diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and oral cancer, are first manifested in the mouth. During your dental checkups, your dentist can detect these diseases early and provide necessary treatments or referrals when needed. This is essential in curing or preventing the spread of these diseases. 

Also, if you're looking for professional advice on tobacco cessation, nutritional counseling, or general health information, a general dentist is your go-to-go person. 

For more information, contact a dentist near you.

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5 November 2021

Mouth Rinses Are Not Just for Bad Breath

I have always brushed and flossed my teeth daily, but I still had the occasional cavity when I visited the dentist for a check-up. He told me it was normal to have a cavity on occasion and that I shouldn't let it stress me out too much. Well, I am not one to just accept any problem I am having, so I started looking into how to improve my oral hygiene even more. I had always thought mouthwash was just to improve your breath, but I found some that said they helped keep cavities away. I started using one every day before bed. I haven't had a cavity in two years now, and I think the mouth rinse is the reason! I created this blog to remind other people that even if they brush and floss regularly, they can always find ways to take even better care of their teeth.