General dentists are the main providers of dental care for people of all ages. General dentists provide dental care for people of all ages. If you go to a general dentist you may encounter a routine visit. A routine visit may include a thorough examination of your mouth which will include the gums, teeth, and other structures. The routine may also include a professional cleaning along with a discussion about your dental health. If the presence of tooth decay is found during this routine it will generally require a filling in the affected tooth.
There are other services that a general dentist will provide to you. General dentists provide a wide selection of services that are vital to your health. These services include the following:
- Preventive Services: These services help you maintain good oral health by stopping disease before it can take hold in your mouth. The most known and best form of preventive services would be to have regular exams and professional teeth cleanings. Your general dentist may give you detailed instructions so you can improve your oral hygiene routine at home; the general dentist may also recommend sealants, which is another preventive treatment that may be an option for you.
- Restorative Services: The general dentist will make sure timely and appropriate treatment is given whenever a problem is found. The most common and highly effective dental restoration process would be removing tooth decay and placing a filling in the affected tooth. If you should encounter dental trauma and need immediate and prompt treatment, this would be provided by your general dentist. They can diagnose and treat the causes of periodontal disease and tooth pain. They may also offer services requiring treatments for missing teeth, place bridgework or crowns, and also help you get fitted with dentures. Some general dentists will provide more advanced treatments as well.
- Cosmetic Procedures: Most general dentists may be able to help you get the best smile that you can imagine; this can be done by providing cosmetic procedures. If you are looking for a smile makeover, you may want to speak to your general dentist to see what services they may offer.
- Overall Health Concerns: Your oral health can be reflective of your general health; it can be seen as a mirror in a sense. There are some dental problems that may reflect issues in other parts of your body, and it can be seen the other way around as well. General dentists are trained to identify issues and offer appropriate treatment or referral if that is needed.