General or traditional dentistry’s main focus is on oral hygiene, and preventing and treating oral disease. General dentists address dental problems that require essential treatment, concerning themselves with diseases and disorders affecting the teeth, gums and jaws.
A general dentist is licensed to diagnose dental problems, develop treatment plans and provide that essential treatment. Qualified dentists are designated with either DDS (Doctor of Dental Surgery) or DMD (Doctor of Dental Medicine).
A general dentist will devise a dental hygiene plan to include regular examinations, tooth cleaning on a regular schedule, x-rays and other diagnostic tests that will assist him and you in preventing, discovering and treating dental problems as early as possible.
General dentists are your first defense against tooth decay and disease and are responsible for the management of all your oral health care needs. General dentists attend continuing education programs to remain as educated in current techniques and procedures as possible.
General Dentistry Services
A general or traditional dentist may provide a variety of services including but not limited to:
Tooth cleaning and whitening Gum disease detection and treatment TMJ/TMD diagnosis and treatment Crowns and bonding Sedation dentistry Implants Oral cancer screening
What to Consider when Choosing a General Dentist
How experienced and well-trained is the dentist? Has the dentist had any specialized training? Do they have a referral process in place? Does the dentist belong to a professional dental association? What is their after-hours/emergency policy? Do they offer any patient amenities for comfort?
After you choose your general dentist, remember to visit your dentist regularly, at least twice a year. Daily brushing and flossing along with regular check-ups prevents the development of serious dental problems that may require painful and costly treatments.