What is Involved in General Dental Services

In addition to proper brushing and flossing, routine professional dental services are an important part of maintaining oral health. A general dentist performs regular cleanings and checkups and can also provide numerous services for prevention and treatment. While some offerings may vary by location, general dentists can address the most common dental issues.

Preventative Care

Every six months, patients should schedule a dental cleaning and checkup. This applies to people of all ages, including infants, as the American Dental Association recommends seeing a dentist as soon as baby teeth appear.

Cleanings

During a professional cleaning, a hygienist, assistant or dentist often begins by scaling to remove plaque that has built up between teeth and along the gum line. Teeth are then polished using a high-grit paste or spray. After a thorough flossing, patients may receive a fluoride treatment, which is painted on teeth and brushed off later at home.

X-rays

Dentists rely on X-rays to reveal decay, deterioration and bone loss below the gum line. The frequency of dental X-rays varies based on age, medical history and the current state of oral health. In general, patients with healthy teeth and gums should expect X-rays once every two to three years.

Examinations

After the teeth are thoroughly cleaned, a dentist makes an inspection for signs of decay or gum disease. Measurements may be taken to check for signs of gum recession.

Repair and Restoration

In addition to cleaning and examining teeth, other dental services are available when a patient is in need of specific treatment. A general dentist is trained and qualified to perform numerous procedures to help restore a healthy smile.

Decay and disease

When tooth decay is present, general dentists can administer fillings to prevent further damage. In the event of severe decay or injury, a crown may be required to repair the tooth. In case of infection, root canals may be performed. Laser treatment is sometimes used in patients with periodontal disease.

Tooth loss

When an individual loses a permanent tooth, several restoration options are available. Often, patients may opt for a bridge to replace the lost tooth. Some general dentists are also qualified to place implants, which are more natural-looking and durable than other tooth loss treatments. In the event of multiple tooth loss, patients can be fitted for full or partial dentures.

Cosmetic procedures

Those who are looking for aesthetic improvements to their smile can enjoy treatments such as:

  • Teeth whitening
  • Veneers
  • Dental bonding

These procedures can be performed by a qualified general dentist to remove surface stains, reduce the appearance of a gummy smile and help teeth appear more even.

Alignment treatments

Many dentists now offer clear aligner tray systems, allowing patients to receive treatment for misaligned teeth. This method is becoming a popular choice for teeth straightening, as it can be more discreet, less painful and even faster than traditional braces.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: General Dental Services in Torrance, CA.

Conclusion

In addition to necessary preventative care, general dentists offer numerous valuable dental services to patients of all ages. From repairing decay to restoring a beautiful smile, many helpful procedures are available in a single, convenient location.

Request an appointment or call SmileWell Family Dentistry at 310-904-6375 for an appointment in our Torrance office.

Recent Posts

Understanding Various Procedures In Periodontics

Periodontics is a specialized branch of dentistry that focuses on preventing, diagnosing, and treating diseases affecting the gums and other supportive oral structures. A periodontist can help patients manage periodontal issues, ranging from mild gum inflammation to advanced cases that require surgical intervention. This dental specialty can help you maintain your oral health and prevent…

Reasons To Consider Dentures As An Option For Replacing Missing Teeth

Are you thinking of your option for replacing missing teeth with dentures? Well then, you are on your way to having a new and appealing smile. People all around the world have had and continue to have success with this treatment. Dentures can be an effective way to fill in embarrassing gaps in the mouth.Dentures,…

Are There Options For Replacing Missing Front Teeth?

When it comes to replacing missing front teeth, there are options available. This article reviews some popular tooth replacement options so you can preserve your smile and your health. Due to their position, losing front teeth may undermine your self-esteem and make you less inclined to smile for photographs. However, it is about more than…

SmileWell Family Dentistry

Share
Published by
SmileWell Family Dentistry

Recent Posts

Understanding Various Procedures in Periodontics

A periodontist can help patients manage periodontal issues, ranging from mild gum inflammation to advanced…

19 hours ago

Reasons to Consider Dentures as an Option for Replacing Missing Teeth

Are you thinking of your option for replacing missing teeth with dentures? Well then, you…

5 days ago

Are There Options for Replacing Missing Front Teeth?

When it comes to replacing missing front teeth, there are options available. This article reviews…

2 weeks ago

Why You Should See a Periodontist for Advanced Gum Care

When gum problems arise, patients can often benefit from seeing a periodontist for advanced gum…

2 weeks ago

3 Options for Replacing Missing Teeth and Avoiding Bone Loss

If you are missing teeth, you should visit a dentist to discuss your options for…

3 weeks ago

Full Mouth Dental Implants are an Option for Replacing Missing Teeth

Full mouth dental implants are a preferred option for replacing missing teeth teeth rather than…

4 weeks ago