What is general dentistry?

General dentistry is a field of dentistry that focuses on keeping your teeth healthy, preventing tooth decay and gum disease, and helping you maintain a beautiful, healthy smile.

Types of dental care

General dentistry is the general area of dentistry that covers both restorative and preventive procedures. A cleaning and checkup every six months or every other year is a routine part of general dentistry, as are X-rays and other imaging tests. Sealants and fluoride treatments are also commonly provided during general visits.

Restoring a tooth that has been damaged by decay is a common procedure in general dentistry. Fillings, crowns, onlays, inlays, and veneers are all restorations that are performed as part of general dentistry. Root canals are often also considered a form of restorative care as well.

If patients are experiencing issues with their bite or their teeth are not aligned properly, orthodontic treatment is typically a part of general dentistry. Braces and other orthodontic appliances can be provided to patients who need them to help them achieve proper alignment and address other oral health concerns.

Preventive care is a part of general dentistry that is very important for patients of all ages. Fluoride treatments and sealants are typically applied to young patients in order to prevent cavities from forming. Older patients are able to achieve better results with preventive care by avoiding tooth decay, gum disease, and TMJ disorder by brushing and flossing regularly. Using mouthwash can also help to kill bacteria and prevent problems from occurring later in a patient’s life.

As your family dentist in Tulsa, we take care of your smile by providing general dentistry services to keep your teeth and gums healthy. We also treat any areas of concern as they arise to ensure your dental health remains in tip-top shape. Contact our office today to schedule an appointment!

Author Bio: Dr. Ben Babcock earned his DDS degree from the University of Oklahoma College of Dentistry. As a dentist who provides a wide variety of dental services, he helps his patients address all of their

Common dental procedures

General dentistry involves the diagnosis and treatment of common oral health problems. A dentist will correct the alignment of the teeth, repair damaged teeth with crowns and fillings, remove decay from tooth surfaces, treat gum disease, and more. Many patients visit a general dentist every six months for routine examinations and cleanings.

What Can Be Treated at Your Dentist’s Office?

The following procedures are typically performed at a general dentist’s office:

• Dental cleanings and exams

• Cavity treatment

• Endodontics treatments

• Gum disease management

• Oral cancer screening

• Orthodontics

• Pediatric care

• Periodontal therapy

• Restorations

Preventive dental care is the best way to avoid the need for dental treatments. This includes brushing twice a day, flossing at least once, and visiting your dentist at least twice a year for cleanings and exams. General dentists can address most oral health care needs—from cavities to oral cancer screenings—so be sure to prioritize your checkups.

General dentistry vs. cosmetic dentistry

It’s generally recommended that patients practice preventive dental care, which could include regular brushing and flossing in addition to cleanings and checkups with a general dentist. Preventive care helps to prevent severe dental issues from developing in the first place.

However, if a patient does need restorative dental treatments, such as fillings or dental crowns, they can visit their general dentist for these treatments as well. Restorative procedures can help patients who have severely damaged teeth due to cavities or trauma enjoy a healthy smile again.

When patients are practicing general dentistry at home between visits with their dentist, they should focus on proper oral hygiene, including brushing twice a day for two minutes at a time as well as daily flossing. Additionally, they should floss at least once a day to help remove plaque buildup in between their teeth and along the gumline. This helps to reduce the chances of tooth decay, periodontal disease and other oral health issues.

At-home oral care is only part of the equation when it comes to maintaining good dental health, however. In addition to at-home preventative dental care, it’s equally important to visit your dentist every six months for a checkup and professional cleaning. If it’s time for your next appointment, call our team at Dental Implants & Periodontal Center to schedule your next cleaning and exam today!

About Dental Implants & Periodontal Center

Dr. Thomas McDonald is a skilled periodontist located in La Mesa, California. He is dedicated to providing patients with conservative periodontal therapy in a compassionate and caring environment. With years of training and expertise in general and specialized periodontics, he offers his patients the highest standard of care. To learn more about his practice or the services offered at his office, please browse through the information on this website. To schedule an appointment with Dr. McDonald,