General Dentistry Specialist

What is general dentistry?

General dentistry includes all the treatments patients need to have to enjoy good oral health at every age, including routine preventive care like cleanings, checkups and x-rays, as well as restorative care and treatments like fillings and crowns to address decay and other issues that can cause more significant damage if not treated promptly.

How often do I need to have a dental checkup?

Patients of all ages should have dental checkups twice each year to remove built-up plaque and tartar, look for and treat early signs of gum disease, and identify other issues that need to be addressed, including tooth decay. Twice-yearly checkups and exams also ensure patients receive oral cancer screenings and dental x-rays as needed for optimal oral health. For children, seeing a dentist twice a year ensures their growth and development is on track and also helps identify potential problems in their earliest stages so they can be treated right away.

What happens during a routine office visit?

A routine exam and cleaning appointment begins with a review of any symptoms and an update to the existing medical history of the patient. A visual examination of the teeth, gums and other tissues inside the mouth will be performed, and then the hygienist will gently clean the tooth surfaces, paying close attention to the areas along the gum line and between teeth where brushing and flossing are often ineffective in removing plaque and tartar. Once the cleaning is over, the hygienist will be able to provide the patient with helpful information they can use to improve their brushing and flossing techniques so they can keep their teeth and gums as healthy as possible between appointments. Next, dental x-rays may be performed to see inside the teeth and below the gums. Finally, a complete exam will be performed to check for signs of decay and disease that need to be treated, and a treatment plan will be developed based on those needs.