General Dentistry

What is general dentistry?

General dentistry works to diagnose, treat, and prevent oral health problems. General dentists, like the team at Smile Bright Dental, provide a home base for all of your needs, including oral exams, gum care, root canals, and preventive education. 

Participating in routine general dentistry appointments is one of the easiest ways to preserve your oral health. Gum disease and cavities often present few symptoms in their early stages. Therefore, regular checkups can alert you to potentially serious issues before they get worse.

What services does general dentistry provide?

The team at Smile Bright Dental offers a variety of general dentistry services, including:

Oral exams

During an oral exam, your dentist uses a circular handheld mirror to observe your teeth, gums, and tongue. They carefully assess each quadrant of your mouth, looking for signs of cavities, gum disease, abscesses, or other potential problems.

Periodontal dentistry

Periodontal dentistry provides treatment for gum disease, including gingivitis and periodontitis. Depending on the severity of your infection, the team might recommend a deep cleaning (scaling and root planing), antibiotics, gum flap surgery, or a bone graft. If you’re missing one, several, or all of your teeth, the team can also place dental implants.

Preventive dentistry

Preventive dentistry tries to catch oral health problems early on when they’re most responsive to treatment. Common preventive dentistry services include oral exams, professional cleanings, oral X-rays, and patient education.

Cosmetic dentistry

If you’re unhappy with the physical appearance of your teeth or gums, consider cosmetic dentistry. Cosmetic dentistry uses treatment techniques like teeth whitening, veneers, and bonding to help you achieve a bright, white, and healthy smile.

Restorative dentistry

If you develop a cavity or damage a tooth due to an accident or injury, restorative dentistry might benefit you. This type of dentistry uses oral prosthetics like crowns, bridges, and fillings to strengthen and fortify your teeth, restoring your smile to its near-original condition.

Orthodontics

Orthodontics uses special appliances, like Invisalign® mouthpieces or brackets, wires, and rubber bands, to gradually straighten and reposition your teeth. It’s ideal for people who have crooked and crowded teeth or misaligned jaws.

How often should I make a general dentistry appointment?

If you want to keep your mouth in great shape for years to come, schedule a general dentistry appointment once every six months. Regular exams at Smile Bright Dental are a sure-fire way to keep your teeth and gums healthy and problem-free.

If you’re in need of general dentistry services, schedule an appointment at Smile Bright Dental. Book a consultation online, or call the office to speak with the team today.