What is General Dentistry?
While cosmetic dentistry is primarily focused on improving or altering the appearance of the teeth and gums, general dentistry is focused on improving and protecting the structure and health of the teeth and gums. All treatment methods used under general dentistry are intended to promote or restore ideal oral health. Examples of general dentistry services include:
Dental Cleanings
Professional cleanings are designed to thoroughly remove plaque and tartar from the mouth. While proper home care is incredibly important, even the most devout oral health enthusiasts may potentially miss a spot here or there; in-office dental cleanings are done to ensure that all surfaces of the teeth are clean. Cleanings are typically done every six months, though there are some cases in which patients may return sooner at the request of their dentist or dental hygienist.
Routine Check-Up Examinations
Routine examinations typically coincide with dental cleaning appointments every six months or so. During a dental check-up, the teeth and gums will be thoroughly examined for signs of damage or decay. If any restorative work (such as fillings, dental crowns, or root canals) is needed, it will be discussed with you at length and scheduled at your convenience. Routine check-ups are a crucial aspect of dental care, as they ensure that the dentist is able to keep a close eye on your dental health.
Fluoride Treatments
Fluoride is a natural element that strengthens and protects the enamel of the teeth. Some patients may be recommended to undergo fluoride treatments, during which a fluoride paste or gel is topically applied to the teeth and allowed to process for a designated amount of time. Fluoride treatments are ideal for children–who are still learning how to properly care for their teeth–but they can also be beneficial for adults, as well.
Dental Sealants
Much like fluoride treatments, dental sealants are a preventative measure taken against tooth decay. Dental sealants are thin, protective coatings that are directly applied to the teeth. They help provide an extra barrier against decay. Sealants are typically recommended for children and teens, but there may be instances in which they are recommended for adults.
Gum Disease Treatment
Gum disease–otherwise known as periodontitis–is a chronic infection of the gum tissues that is caused by excessive bacterial growth both above and below the gumline. Gum disease has a wide variety of negative side effects and can be quite disruptive both to your quality of life and your overall health. Gum disease can not be reversed once it develops, but it can be prevented from progressing with proper treatment. Gum disease treatment consists of a deep cleaning that removes plaque and tartar above and below the gum line. In some cases, an antibiotic solution will be placed beneath the gums to maintain a clean environment between appointments, which are typically scheduled every three months.
Dental Laser Therapy
Lasers can be used for a number of different applications in the dental industry. Some treatments that make use of dental laser therapy include crown lengthening, gum contouring, the removal of benign tumors, and more.
Dental Fillings
Cavities occur when harmful bacterias or acids are able to break down the tooth enamel and penetrate the tooth. Depending on the severity of the cavity, patients typically feel some sort of sensitivity or pain. Dental fillings are done in order to prevent a cavity from worsening and to restore the structure and health of the tooth. The decay will be thoroughly removed from the tooth before it is then refilled with a composite filling material. The shade of the filling is hand-selected to ensure that it matches the shade of the natural teeth as closely as possible.
Root Canals
When damage or decay penetrates the canal of the tooth, the central nerve becomes exposed. In turn, this typically causes extreme sensitivity and pain for the patient. Because the damage or decay is so deep, it, unfortunately, can no longer be restored with a filling; it will require a root canal. Your dentist will remove all signs of decay in the tooth and remove the damaged central nerve. The canal will be sterilized and filled with a synthetic material called Gutta Percha before being sealed off. The tooth will then be filled and restored with a large filling, and in most cases, it will then be covered with a protective dental crown.
Dental Crowns and Bridges
Dental crowns and bridges are protective caps that are designed to fit right over the top of the natural tooth. Dental crowns are typically used after a large filling or root canal has been done in order to preserve and protect the tooth, but they may also be used to cover a dental implant. Dental bridges are essentially three-unit dental crowns that are cemented to two anchor teeth inside the mouth. Between the two anchor teeth, a “fake” tooth (pontic) rests upon the gum line and fills the gap left by a missing tooth.
Simple Tooth Extractions
While impacted or damaged teeth may require surgical extractions done by an oral surgeon, most general dentists can complete simple tooth extractions in-office in-office. Your dentist will always recommend restoring your natural teeth whenever possible, but there are instances in which it may be necessary to remove a tooth instead. Extractions are typically required when a tooth has reached a certain point of damage or decay and can no longer be restored. After the tooth has been removed from the mouth, options for replacing the tooth (such as dental bridges, dental implants, or a partial denture) will be discussed.
Oral Cancer Screenings
Oral cancer screenings are a preventative measure that helps dental professionals ensure there are no signs of oral cancer within the mouth. Being scheduled for an oral cancer screening does not automatically mean that there is cause for concern; this is simply a proactive approach to maintaining both your oral and overall health.
What is a General Dentist?
A general dentist is a dental care provider that performs a wide range of services for their patients. General dentists typically focus their work on preventative and restorative dental care.
In most cases, it typically takes eight years of education to be eligible to practice general dentistry. Most general dentists acquire their four-year bachelor’s degrees before entering dental school, which typically takes another four years. After receiving their DMD or DDS upon the completion of dental school, they may either choose to enter the field or complete a residency program.