General dentistry is defined as the evaluation, diagnosis, prevention and treatment of diseases, disorders and/or conditions of the oral cavity. Additionally, the maxillofacial area and adjacent and associated structures are treated by a general dentist.
General of dentistry involves using a general dentist, which is a dental patient's first point of contact when they are experiencing any type of dental problem. A few examples of general dentistry services and treatments include getting cavities filled, having crowns placed, undergoing root canal therapy, having a tooth extracted and undergoing yearly checkups.
The information below discusses the topic of what patients can expect when going in for their yearly checkup with a general dentist.
Yearly checkups are not only important to check a patient’s teeth to make sure they are healthy, but it is also a time when they will undergo an oral cancer screening. This screening is important, as the earlier any potential signs of cancer are found, the more likely the patient will experience success when undergoing any treatments for oral cancer. The screening only takes a few minutes to perform and is completely painless.
During a general dentistry appointment, x-rays are typically taken. They are important because they can show the dentist certain dental problems, like an impacted tooth, any type of infection, gum disease or cavities. Oftentimes, these problems are not detectable to the eye, which is why x-rays are required on a regular basis. Dental X-rays are safe and can actually do a lot of good for patients undergoing a yearly checkup. If the dentist finds any problems, they will discuss their findings with the patient.
A professional cleaning of the teeth is performed during a general dentistry yearly checkup. This cleaning is essential when it comes to removing any built-up plaque or tartar stuck on the teeth, as this needs to be removed in a timely manner or else dental problems will occur. Some patients may need a deep cleaning, which is a more intensive cleaning process and thus takes longer to perform. General dentistry offices recommend two cleanings a year but patients can opt for more if they desire.
The yearly checkup allows the patient to be aware of what is going on with their oral health. If any dental problems are found, the patient will need to make one or more additional appointments in order to address the problems. All general dentistry work that needs to be done will be included in the patient's treatment plan and will be explained to the patient.
Yearly checkups at a general dentistry office are important because it allows the dentist to check for any dental problems, as well as remove any tartar or plaque buildup that is present. Reach out today to get started or learn more!
Request an appointment here: https://www.bridgewaterfamilydental.com or call Bridgewater Family Dental at (513) 712-9642 for an appointment in our Hamilton office.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.
An emergency dentist may be necessary. The tissue that makes up your gums does not grow back, so it can be scary in the unlikely event that you get lacerated on your gums. To clarify, a cut that comes from everyday activities such as flossing, brushing your teeth too vigorously, or biting down wrongly on…
A root canal is a procedure that dentists can perform to stop infection inside a tooth by removing its pulp, or the material in the center of a tooth. Since teeth are made of enamel and other hard materials, they do not swell up to warn you that an infection might be present, like other…
When a child first goes to the dentist for a dental cleaning, there is often anxiety and resistance, which is completely normal. Thankfully, general dentists who work with children are trained to be extra patient and gentle. Additionally, they are able to provide parents with tips that can be helpful in preparing the child for…
In general dentistry, fluoride treatments are common. Fluoride is a mineral found in bones and teeth, as well as water, plants, soil, rocks, and air. When used by dentists, fluoride strengthens tooth enamel. Therefore, dentists generally use fluoride as a preventative treatment against cavities. Additionally, fluoride can be found in most public water supplies. In…