What is a General Dentist?
Your general dentist, more than likely, is the health care provider whom you see on the most regular basis. If you are visiting the dentist as recommended, you will see your general dentist roughly every six months. One major reason for this, is that your dentist is focused on preventing disease, not just treating disease.
What Does a General Dentist Do?
A general dentist is not focused on one area of dentistry over another, hence the name. Your general dentist will offer a plethora of services that may include the following:
Preventive Services:
Offered by your dentist, these services help you maintain proper oral health by stopping disease from developing in the first place. The most important part of your preventive services will be your routine cleanings and regular exams (x-rays, oral cancer screenings, etc.). When you receive a checkup, your dentist, or dental hygienist, may provide you with information to improve your at-home hygiene habits.
Other types of preventive services include:
Restorative Services:
If your dentist identifies a problem with your oral health, they will provide a treatment plan to restore your health. The most common restorative procedure is removing a cavity and placing a filling (typically an amalgam filling). In addition to this, your dentist can treat you in times of dental emergency or if you have experienced a dental trauma. Your dentist may also identify, diagnose, and begin treatment if you have started to develop gingivitis or gum disease.
Other types of restorative services include:
Please note that not all dentists will perform all types of procedures, so it is important to check with the individual dentist.
Cosmetic Services:
Many patients have a desire to improve the cosmetic appeal of their smile. General dentists will typically offer a variety of options to improve the look of your smile. These include:
Along with the above services, your general dentist will also be responsible for referring you to specialists when you are in need of more focused care.
