general dentistry

When it comes to dental healthcare, general care doctors are your primary caregivers.

 
OVERVIEW
ROUTINE CLEANING
DENTAL HYGIENE
CANCER SCREENINGS
X-RAYS/IMAGING
DENTURES
TELEDENTISTRY
DENTAL SEALANTS
FLUORIDE TREATMENT
FILLINGS
SEDATION DENTISTRY
DENTAL CROWNS
BRIDGES
 

What is General Dentistry?

Healthy. Straight. Cavity-free. It can be hard to think about dealing with oral care when you have these checked off, but the healthier, happier habits you do now can really pay off later.

 

General dentistry is a branch of dental healthcare that encompasses most of, if not all, aspects of dental healthcare. One of the most valuable benefits of general dentistry is prevention and detection of problems before treatable concerns wreak havoc and negatively impact your oral health. And this means including one more item to the list: regular visits every six months to ensure you’re on top of your preventive care.

Illustration of a calendar with a dentist appointment circled
 

The Benefits of General Dentistry

 

Every smile is different. And so is every oral care journey. From preventive care to routine maintenance and diagnosing and treating ailments, we’re here to help you (and your smile) on that journey.

 

Prevent Health Issues

a stethoscope with a yellow circle in the background

Detect Problems Early

a magnifying glass inside a yellow circle.

Treat Issues Quickly

dental tools with a yellow circle in the background

Get Routine Care

dentist chair with a lamp with a yellow circle
 
Dad and daughter brushing teeth
 

General Dentistry Services

What are common preventive dentistry services? Your general dentist is your go-to provider when you need routine care like regular teeth cleanings, exams, X-rays, fillings, inlays and onlays.

Routine Cleaning

Routine teeth cleanings are essential to maintaining your oral health.

Dental Hygiene

Dental hygiene is focused on preventative care. Hygienists will clean your teeth, remove plaque and tartar, perform exams and conduct imaging and x-rays.

Cancer Screenings

Being on top of your health should include regular oral cancer screenings.

X-rays/Imaging

The technology for dental x-rays and imaging allows for early detection of oral health problems.

Dentures

Partial and complete dentures are both great options for adults with missing teeth.

Teledentistry

Teledentistry allows patients to speak to a dentist about a dental emergency or general inquiries without having to leave the comfort of home.

Dental Sealants

Dental sealants are a thin, protective coating added to your teeth to help protect your enamel and prevent tooth decay and potential cavities.

Fluoride Treatment

Fluoride treatment is recommended to prevent tooth decay and cavities in both children and adults.

Fillings

Prevent further tooth decay by having cavities treated sooner rather than later.

Sedation Dentistry

Sedation, or sleep dentistry, is a valuable tool for minimizing discomfort during dental procedures.

Dental Crowns

Dental crowns cover the visible portion of your tooth to restore its natural size, shape and function.

Dental Bridges

A dental bridge is a false tooth or teeth used to help replace missing teeth.

 
 
Toothpaste
 
Woman in mirror flossing
 

Let's Get You Scheduled

 

Find a trusted dentist near you using our Find a Dentist tool and start taking control of your oral and overall health today.

 

Got questions?

 

We’ve got answers! Find answers to common questions about general dentistry here, or give us a call at 1-800-SMILEGEN.

As a general rule, dentists may recommend getting your teeth cleaned once every six months, but you may need cleanings more or less frequently. For example, if you have poor oral health and are at risk of cavities or other dental problems, your dentist may want to see you once every three months. On the other hand, if you take good care of your teeth at home, your dentist may recommend cleanings as infrequently as once every two years.

 

Many insurances pay for two cleanings a year, along with a comprehensive exam. So, even if you do not have any concerns and good dental practices, you might still want to take advantage of the second cleaning.

 

Learn more in our article, "What is a Dental Teeth Cleaning"

Good oral hygiene means practicing good oral health habits. By protecting your oral health, you can enjoy a brighter, healthier smile and have a better chance of avoiding various health issues, both in your mouth and throughout your body. Brushing, flossing, eating healthy foods, and getting regular dental checkups and cleanings will go a long way toward maintaining your whole-body health.

 

Learn more in our blog article, "Dental Hygiene: Tips & Health Issues."

When you visit a new dentist, you will be given a comprehensive oral exam and cleaning to address any issues you may have and improve your oral hygiene. Here are some steps you can expect throughout your first visit:

  • Check in and complete any paperwork before your appointment
  • Get X-rays and other diagnostic tests
  • Receive an oral examination
  • Address your dental history and concerns
  • Develop a personalized oral care plan

Your personalized plan may involve additional treatments you may need, such as a deep cleaning, cavity filling, dental crown or more. Once your dental appointment is over, you can schedule your next appointment to maintain your oral health into the future.

 

To learn more, read our blog article "First Visit to Dentist: What to Expect."

Not long! A dental cleaning can usually be completed in around 30 minutes. During your cleaning, if other issues arise, it could change how long it takes. In some cases, your dentist may recommend that you make a follow-up appointment for further treatments.

 

Learn more in our article, "What is a Dental Teeth Cleaning"

 
 

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