General dentists can perform dozens of different procedures, so they may have a long list of offered services. A general dentist focuses on the prevention (and fast restoration) of oral health issues. However, they may also provide more extensive procedures, such as teeth replacement, when necessary.
Some general dentistry services are more common than others. Specifically, three standard services are dental X-rays, dental cleanings, and dental fillings. Here is a more in-depth look at each of these three services and when they may be recommended by a general dentist.
Getting dental X-rays is a common diagnostic service. There are different types of dental X-rays, and each provides a unique view of the patient’s teeth and/or periodontal health. They help the dentist diagnose any oral health concerns, especially those that may not be easily detected through other diagnostic measures. Notably, the types of concerns that dental X-rays can help diagnose include (but are not limited to):
General dentists also perform oral examinations during routine visits. This involves a visual inspection of the patient's mouth with special dental instruments. Some general dentists offer oral cancer screenings too.
Dental cleanings are how dentists remove plaque and tartar buildup on patients' teeth. Good oral care at home between check-up visits is the best way to reduce the risk of cavities, gum disease, and other common oral health complications. However, even with good at-home oral hygiene and care, patients can still develop plaque and tartar on their teeth and along the gum line. Routine dental cleanings involve scaling away this excess plaque and polishing teeth to help prevent future buildup.
There are other preventive services that a general dentist may recommend. For instance, a dentist may recommend dental sealants for patients who are more vulnerable to getting cavities on the chewing surfaces of their molars (this is why such cavities are common among children). Fluoride treatment can help prevent cavities in cases where the patient has weakened enamel.
A dental filling is a common restorative procedure for treating dental cavities. During this procedure, the dentist cleans the decayed portion of a tooth, sterilizes it, and then fills it with a special filling. There are different material options for dental fillings, including composites, amalgam, and glass ionomer.
General dentists offer other types of restorative procedures, including root canal therapy, scaling and root planing (deep dental cleaning), dental crowns, dental bonding, and tooth replacement (e.g., implants or dentures).
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: General Dentist in Oxford, MS
We take pride in helping members of our local community with their dentistry needs. Whether you need a check-up and cleaning or restorative care services, we are here to help you and your family with all oral care needs. So, why wait? Contact us today to schedule your visit.
Request an appointment or call Lee Family and Cosmetic Dentistry at 662-546-1143 for an appointment in our Oxford office.
Though we go to our general dentist all the time, one thing that not everyone considers is the fact that the dentist is the one that handles most of our oral health issues. How is it that one dentist is responsible for treating and diagnosing so many of our problems without the help of specialists…
Besides ourselves, one other person plays a highly important role in maintaining our oral health, our general dentist. You see, the dentist is responsible for much of the work that goes into our mouths, and without them, most of us would be at a loss as to what to do to protect our teeth, tongue,…
Curious about what you should be asking your general dentist when you visit? Read on to learn more. Visiting a general dentist for regular check-ups is essential for maintaining good oral health. By learning more about their oral health, patients can prevent potential problems and be more aware of changes that may require attention.Going to…
Though we go to our general dentist all the time, one thing that not everyone considers is the fact that the dentist is the one that handles most of our oral health issues. How is it that one dentist is responsible for treating and diagnosing so many of our problems without the help of specialists…
Besides ourselves, one other person plays a highly important role in maintaining our oral health, our general dentist. You see, the dentist is responsible for much of the work that goes into our mouths, and without them, most of us would be at a loss as to what to do to protect our teeth, tongue,…