What is Involved in General Dental Services

What is Involved in General Dental Services from Gentle Touch Dental Care in Forest Hills, NYIn 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 Forest Hills, NY.

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 Gentle Touch Dental Care at 718-924-2387 for an appointment in our Forest Hills office.

Related Posts

Can Sensitive Teeth Be A Symptom Of Receding Gums?

Receding gums are the result of a severe case of gum disease (known as periodontitis) that is left untreated. If you have receding gums, then there is an increased risk of experienced sensitive teeth as well as other discomforting symptoms.If left untreated, receding gums can lead to the loosening and ultimately the loss of teeth…

Can Mouthwash Help Prevent Receding Gums?

Worried about receding gums? Read on to learn about how to prevent this condition. Receding gums can put the long-term health of teeth at risk. The good news is that mouthwash, along with other at-home oral care routines and regular cleaning and check-up visits with your dentist, can significantly reduce the risk of periodontal (gum)…

How Common Are Receding Gums?

Concerned about gum recession? Read on to learn the commonality of receding gums and how they can be treated and prevented. Receding gums are common among individuals with periodontal disease. However, there are different levels of gum recession, and the severity of the concerns depends on how far the gums have receded.Receding gums can become…