What You Need to Know About General Dentistry
A general dentist is the first face of dental health care and is the most common type of oral healthcare providers. General dentists diagnose, treat, and manage oral healthcare needs in the short- and long-term. Common procedures include routine exams, gum care, fillings, root canals, veneers, bridges, and preventative care.
What Do General Dentists Do?
General dentists perform routine oral health care, both preventative and restorative.
Preventative maintenance includes all procedures that keep the teeth, mouth, gums, and tongue healthy. Cleanings, routine exams, and fluoride treatments are all examples of preventative maintenance.
When preventative measures are insufficient, dentists begin restorative dental care. Restorative dental care covers all procedures that aim to repair damages caused by tooth decay, trauma, or disease in or around the mouth. Crowns, root canals, and fillings are examples of restorative dental care.
General Dentistry Services
While specialist dentists focus on one particular area of oral healthcare, many general dentists are trained to perform a broad range of dental procedures, including:
- Cosmetic procedures
- Crowns and bridges
- Dental implants
- Dentures
- Gum disease treatment
- At-home oral care guidance
- Mouthguards
- Nutrition counseling
- Oral surgery
- Root canal therapy
- Teeth cleanings
Routine checkups with a general dentist are essential in maintaining optimal dental health. When you follow-up with a dentist regularly, the dentist can identify, track, and treat minor issues before they become something more.
Find a General Dentist for Your Kids
Kool Smiles Kids Club has a network of partner dentists in your area who provide general dental care. With kid-friendly staff, affordable payment options, and family-friendly waiting areas, our partner clinics go above and beyond to make visiting the dentist a pleasant experience for all.