General Dentistry: Frequently Asked Questions And Their Answers

General Dentistry: Frequently Asked Questions And Their Answers
December 1, 2021

Dentists are involved in the care of the teeth and other structures in the mouth. As you may know, there are several specialties in dentistry, and they offer different services. General dentists provide a wide range of treatment options to patients of all ages. Their services include routine check-ups, teeth cleanings, and dental sealants, among others.

General dentists undergo intensive four-year training in dental school after obtaining a bachelor’s degree. There, they garner the needed knowledge and skills for their practice. They may also specialize in specific procedures suited to their abilities or the needs of their patients.

What Services Do General Dentists Offer?

Since general dentistry in Stockton is concerned with the maintenance and protection of your oral health, it offers the following services:

  • Comprehensive dental exams, X-rays, and dental cleaning.
  • Cosmetic dentistry procedures (e.g., tooth whitening, porcelain veneers, etc.)
  • Preventive care education, therapy, and counseling.
  • Orthodontics.
  • Dental Implants placement and restoration.

Why Should I Go To The Dentist Regularly?

The teeth, apart from the functions they perform, also add aesthetic value to the face; therefore, they need to be given proper attention and care to maintain them. Also, they need to be protected from dental diseases and defects that can occur at any time without prior warning. That is achievable through regular dental checkups with a dentist near you. Regular dental checkups with a dentist are essential in ensuring that your teeth and gum remain healthy.

Why Does The Dentist Take X-rays?

Dental X-rays are taken during dental examinations. An x-ray can detect abnormalities in the mouth that cannot be seen with naked eyes. A dental x-ray is employed during dental examinations, and it is essential because it allows your dentist to look past the tissues in your youth (e.g., your gums) into the deeper areas of the teeth and jawbone. Dental X-rays make diagnosis easier.

How Can I Prevent Cavities?

Cavities are small holes in the teeth caused by the breakdown of the teeth enamel by bacteria from dental plaques. Dental plaques form due to the interaction between the saliva in the mouth, bacteria, and starchy/sugary foods. Dental plaques feed on these sugary and starchy food particles to produce acids that wear down the enamel and cause decay. Adhering to the following instructions can help to prevent cavities:

  • Avoid frequent snacking and sipping.
  • Brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste after eating or drinking.
  • Consider getting dental sealants to protect the occlusal surface of your molars and premolars.
  • Eat healthy foods.
  • Consider going for a fluoride treatment.
  • Visit your dentist regularly.

Why Is General Dentistry Important?

The importance of general dentistry includes:

  • It helps to save money by avoiding treatment for more serious dental issues.
  • It helps to restore or replace missing or damaged teeth, thereby restoring the functionality of the teeth.
  • General dentistry helps us to keep healthy teeth and gum.
  • Through dental X-rays, severe medical health problems can be discovered.
  • General dentists can attend to different people of different ages. That helps to save you the time and money of looking for a dental specialist.

Pediatric Dentist Vs. General Dentist?

The significant difference between a pediatric dentist and a general dentist is that general dentists can treat patients of all ages while pediatric dentists deal with children only. However, general dentists are not also pediatric dentists because they can treat children too.

Pediatric dentists follow the same route as general dentists to become professionals. After this, they train in a two/three-year program dedicated to dental care for children. Children need a friendly atmosphere before they can submit willingly to treatment. You can trust pediatric dentists to get the job done. Your child should begin to see a pediatric dentist as soon as teething starts. That happens around six months.

At Valley View Dental, our general dentist is always ready to give you the best standard of oral care. Book an appointment today!

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