General dentistry refers to the overall care that you receive at the dentist’s office. Most dentists provide a wide variety of services including mouth examinations, diagnostic X-rays, and preventive care. General dentistry can help to maintain your oral health so that you keep your teeth for as long as possible.

Dental Checkups

Dental checkups are an important part of general dentistry care. During a dental checkup, you will be assessed for diseases of the mouth such as cancer and gum disease. Visiting the dentist at least twice a year for a checkup can help to detect conditions that would negatively impact your oral health.

Preventive Care

Dentists offer preventive care to help protect the health of your teeth and gums. A dental cleaning is part of general dentistry and removes plaque, tartar, and food from your teeth. Dentists also check any fillings or crowns that you have to make sure that they are in good condition. Your dentist can also instruct you on how to properly care for your teeth at home. You may also receive fluoride treatments or pit and fissure sealants to protect your teeth from decay.

Treatment of Dental Problems

General dentists treat dental problems such as tooth decay. When a dentist finds that decay is present either through an oral exam or from X-ray images, it will be removed. The earlier the decay is detected, the more likely it is that your tooth can be saved. The tooth can be restored with fillings or the placement of a crown. Dentists also treat the early stages of gum disease by performing root scaling and planing to remove bacteria from your gum tissue.

Call Portage Park Dental today to make an appointment or learn more about our general dentistry services.