General dentistry is an essential aspect of overall health and wellness. While most people associate dentists with routine cleanings and fillings, the scope of general dentistry goes far beyond those basics. From treating gum disease to performing root canals, an Ardsley General Dentist offers various services to help you maintain healthy teeth and gums.
When you visit a general dentist, they usually start by thoroughly examining your teeth and gums. The dentist will also check for signs of gum disease and any other issues that may affect the health of your mouth.
Once the examination is complete, the dentist will discuss their findings with you and recommend any necessary treatments. This may include procedures such as fillings, extractions, root canals, and more routine treatments such as cleanings and fluoride treatments.
In addition to these treatments, a general dentist may offer advice and education on maintaining good oral hygiene habits, such as brushing and flossing regularly, eating a healthy diet, and avoiding habits such as smoking that can negatively affect your dental health.
Here are some of the services to expect under general dentistry:
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Preventive care
The cornerstone of general dentistry is preventive care. General dentists offer preventive services, including routine cleanings, dental exams, and X-rays. During a routine dental exam, your dentist will assess the health of your teeth and gums, check for signs of decay, and identify any potential issues before they become more serious. Regular cleanings help remove plaque and tartar buildup that can lead to cavities and gum disease.
Restorative services
General dentists offer various restorative services to repair and protect your teeth when damage or decay occurs. These can include fillings, crowns, bridges, and dental implants. Fillings are the most common restorative service used to repair cavities caused by decay. Crowns, often used to protect weak or damaged teeth, cover the entire tooth and can be made from various materials, including porcelain, gold, or resin. Bridges are used to replace missing teeth.
Gum disease treatment
Gum disease is a common oral health problem ranging from mild inflammation to more serious infections that can lead to tooth loss. Scaling and root planing, antibiotics, and gum surgery are just a few of the therapies for gum disease that general dentists provide. Plaque and tartar accumulation below the gum line is eliminated by the deep cleaning procedure known as scaling and root planing. Antibiotics can treat infections, while gum surgery may be necessary for more advanced cases.
Emergency services
General dentists also offer emergency services for patients experiencing dental pain or trauma. These can include tooth extractions, root canals, and cracked or broken teeth repairs. In a dental emergency, contacting your general dentist as soon as possible is important to receive prompt treatment and prevent further damage.
Oral cancer screening
Early detection is key for oral cancer, and general dentists play an important role in identifying potential signs of this disease. During a routine dental exam, your dentist will check for abnormalities or lesions in your mouth and throat. If any suspicious areas are found, your dentist may recommend further testing or a biopsy to determine whether cancer is present.
If you have concerns about your oral health or need dental treatment, visit Ardsley Dental Spa and speak with your dentist.