What is general dentistry?

General dentistry refers to preventive dental care. It includes regular cleanings and exams, as well as dental X-rays to diagnose potential issues before they become big problems. General dentistry is crucial for maintaining good oral health and preventing dental issues.

What does general dentistry mean?

General dentistry is the branch of dental care that focuses on the oral health care of patients of all ages. This type of care includes regular teeth cleanings, oral exams, and x-rays to monitor tooth and jaw development throughout childhood and adulthood. General dentists also treat gum disease and tooth decay and provide preventative education to patients on how to keep their teeth and gums healthy in between visits.

A patient who chooses a general dentist for their oral care needs can feel confident that they’re receiving quality care that provides a comprehensive approach to their smile’s health. From the first baby teeth to the wisdom teeth, pediatric and general dentists work together to ensure the smiles of their patients remain healthy and strong for a lifetime.

The primary goal of general dentistry is to prevent the need for more invasive procedures by providing routine care for the patient’s smile before a problem develops. Visiting the dentist twice a year for a professional cleaning and exam allows your dentist to keep a close eye on your smile for any developing issues. When a dentist catches an issue early on, they can often correct the issue with a less invasive treatment. Issues like a cavity can often be treated with a dental filling; however if left untreated, periodontal disease can develop and lead to the need for a tooth extraction. Maintaining a routine schedule of professional dental care is the best way to avoid needing more advanced treatments in the future.

While the focus of general dentistry is on prevention, general dentists are also experienced in a wide variety of restorative treatments like crowns and bridges to rebuild damaged teeth and dentures to restore a full arch of missing teeth. With advanced training in cosmetic services like teeth whitening and custom veneers, general dentists offer a full range of services that can address nearly any issue a patient may have with their smile.

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What services does a general dentist provide?

At your general dentistry appointment, you can expect the dentist to perform an exam and CLEANING, along with providing advice about preventative dental care like brushing and flossing at home. The doctor may also perform an EXTRACTION if there is an emergency or a tooth that is broken or infected beyond repair. Finally, the doctor will provide a RESIN filling for a cavity if it is caught early enough.

For patients wearing dentures, you should also expect a dentist to check the fit and make adjustments as needed. They can also provide advice on proper denture care.

Are general dentists qualified to perform cosmetic procedures?

General dentists are qualified and able to perform a wide range of treatments—including many cosmetic ones! Some patients may assume that all dentists perform the same procedures and offer the same services. However, there are actually several different types of specialists who can provide certain treatments, including orthodontists, periodontists, endodontists, prosthodontists and oral surgeons.

At a general dentist’s office, a patient can typically expect standard cleanings, whitening treatments and cavity fillings; however, they may also have access to more advanced services like veneers or dental implants. Furthermore, the services that a general dentist provides can help to promote overall oral health and prevent further complications in the future.

Many patients find that their family and general dentist offices are their “go-to” for all of their dentistry needs. Because their needs are so diverse, they may even visit the same office on different days for different procedures. For example, one patient may go for cleanings on one day and have their wisdom teeth extracted on another day. Patients appreciate being able to stay with the same team and work with the same dentists at each appointment.

If you are interested in learning more about how your dentist can help you maintain your overall health, call your dental office to schedule an appointment today!

Dr. Travis Rottman is a general and restorative dentist at Grandridge Dental in Salt Lake, Utah. He is a graduate of the University of Utah School of Dentistry and is committed to continuing education courses to stay up-to-date on the latest techniques and best practices. To learn more about his practice, you can contact him through his website.