4 Standard General Dentistry Services

If you wonder why general dentistry is important, just consider what it means to have strong, healthy teeth and gums. By visiting the dentist, you can avoid cavities, gum disease, infections, and other oral diseases. If you happen to struggle with any of these problems, your dentist is available to provide relief. If it has been a while since your last trip to the dentist’s office, it is helpful to know what to expect from your appointment.

When to take advantage of general dentistry services

Going to the dentist is something a person should start at a young age. Parents can begin taking kids to the dentist as soon as the young patients have teeth. Throughout life, checkups should occur every six months. A person should not wait for the next routine examination, however, if there are problems. Tooth pain, jaw pain, bleeding from the gums, and damaged teeth require prompt attention. Additional appointments are helpful for people who are prone to having cavities or gum disease.

Teeth cleaning

One of the most important reasons to go to a general dentistry office is for the patient to get cleaner teeth. Part of a wellness checkup is when the hygienist removes plaque and tartar buildup from the patient’s teeth and gumline. The hygienist may also floss the patient’s teeth. Afterward, the hygienist will polish the teeth.

Examination

Part of a general dentistry visit is to identify any emerging oral health issues the patient may have. To diagnose conditions such as tooth decay, gum disease, or infections, the hygienist will take X-rays. The dentist will also do a hands-on exam by looking at the patient’s teeth, gums, and other tissue of the mouth. From this exam, the dentist can spot damaged teeth, signs of oral cancer, and other concerns.

Cavity treatment

Of all the conditions that a general dentistry office encounters, cavities are the most prevalent. Decay is most common in younger patients, teenagers, and the elderly. To repair a cavity, the dentist ordinarily uses a filling. After cleaning out the tooth, the dentist fills the tiny holes, sealing the tooth and preventing further decay. For more extensive cavities, a root canal may be necessary.

Cosmetic services

A patient may have concerns about the way their teeth look. Discoloration of the teeth, for example, can impact a person’s smile. Yellow, brown, and gray stains can be embarrassing, but the dentist at a general dentistry office can help. Teeth-whitening methods are available in the office. The patient can also choose to do a daily treatment at home with teeth-whitening trays.