Everyone has had some encounter with general dentistry throughout their life. Looking back far enough, you will likely recall visiting a general dentist on multiple occasions. The services of a general dentist include cleaning, examination, and, if necessary, teeth restoration. They specialize in dental care for patients of all ages and work tirelessly to improve their patients’ smiles. Speak to a Mooresville general dentist to understand general dentistry in detail and how they can assist you.
Define general dentistry.
When it comes to teeth and gums, a general dentist is your go-to for any care. General dentists are the ones who should see you for your biannual exams, cleanings, and any necessary restorations. Patients receive individualized recommendations for dental hygiene procedures like cleaning, scaling, and x-rays.
What sets general dentists apart from those who specialize?
General dentists provide a wide range of treatments and procedures. However, specialists in dentistry devote their attention solely to that area. Therefore, professionals bring more specialized knowledge, competence, and talent to bear on specific kinds of oral problems.
What training do general dentists need?
Every general dentist spends four years after college learning the ins and outs of dentistry. The majority of dentists also receive specialized education.
- Maintenance procedures
General dentists have the critical role of preventing cavities and gum disease. Professional dental cleanings, X-rays for diagnosis, and checkups regularly all contribute to this goal. In addition to cleaning and polishing teeth, a general dentist may provide fluoride treatments and screen for oral cancer.
- Assistance with repairs
Repairs to teeth caused by injury, decay, or illness are considered restoration services. Cavity fillings are quite common dental restorations. If your dentist discovers cavities during one of your visits, they must be cleaned out and filled.
- Invasive oral procedures
A general dentist can perform minor oral surgical procedures. You do not need to see a specialist to have your wisdom teeth pulled or teeth extracted. Root canal therapy, in which infected or inflamed soft tissue within a tooth is removed, is another service a general dentist can offer.
- Dental care for children
Dentists who specialize in general practice treat both permanent and baby teeth. A general dentist can take care of anything related to your teeth, from cleanings to sealants to cavity fillings to extractions.
When should you next visit your general dentist?
Every six months, you should schedule an appointment with your general dentist for a cleaning and checkup. In any case, preventative care measures that include regular dental examinations are crucial. Unfortunately, many problems with one’s mouth do not start hurting until they have progressed quite far.
As a result, it is never a good idea to wait until you have a toothache to see a dentist. Contact your dentist immediately if you experience any unusual symptoms, such as pain in your teeth.
