What is General Dentistry?

General dentistry is the starting point for a lifetime of healthy smiles! If you’re like most patients, you have visited a general dentist more than any other oral health professional. But what exactly does general dentistry entail, and why is it so important? Let’s take a look at what a general dentist does and how your family can benefit from this type of care.

What Is General Dentistry?

At Peak Family Dental Care, our general dentists in Flagstaff, AZ focus on preventing, diagnosing, and treating a broad range of oral health conditions. They cater to patients of all ages, making them the go-to professionals for routine oral care. Unlike oral surgeons or orthodontists, most general dentists don’t specialize in just one area. Instead, they can tackle all kinds of dental issues and tooth procedures.

Common Procedures and Treatments in General Dentistry

General dentistry involves a wide range of services, and a short dental procedures list can’t cover them all. However, here are some of the most common procedures and treatments you might receive from a general dentist:

Routine Check-ups and Cleanings

Routine check-ups and cleanings are at the heart of general dentistry. During a visit, your dentist will examine your teeth, gums, and mouth for signs of decay, damage, or disease. They’ll also take steps to remove plaque and tartar while recommending preventive measures to protect against cavities and gum disease. The average patient should schedule a routine cleaning every six months.

Fillings

Cavities are incredibly common, but general dentists can address them quickly and effectively using fillings. Fillings repair teeth damaged by decay by removing the decayed part and replacing it with a durable material like composite resin or amalgam.

Crowns

Crowns are used to restore the shape, strength, and appearance of a damaged tooth. These dental caps are custom-designed for your teeth and help protect them from further harm.

Tooth Extractions

When a tooth is severely decayed or damaged beyond repair, a general dentist may need to perform a tooth extraction. Although tooth extractions are often associated with pain, modern techniques have made the procedure much more comfortable for patients. If you’re especially worried about an upcoming tooth procedure, ask us about sedation dentistry.  

Sealants

Are you concerned about developing cavities? Sealants can help protect your teeth. Dental sealants are thin coatings applied to the grooves of back teeth to prevent decay. They are especially beneficial for children and teenagers.

Gum Disease Treatment

In addition to everyday cleanings and fillings, general dentists are trained to identify and treat gum disease. Early stages are reversible through deep cleaning techniques and targeted periodontal care.

X-Rays and Diagnostic Services

X-rays are invaluable tools in general dentistry. They allow dentists to identify hidden issues such as impacted teeth, fractures, or infections. These diagnostic tools ensure potential problems are identified and treated promptly.

Teeth Whitening

Who doesn’t want a brighter smile? Many general dentists provide professional teeth whitening services, which are far more effective than over-the-counter options. At Peak Family Dental Care, we provide other cosmetic services as well, including porcelain veneers and smile makeovers.

Preventive Care

The best thing you can do for your oral health is to maintain good hygiene and prevent major tooth problems. That’s why we focus on preventive care. These measures go beyond just cleanings and sealants and may include fluoride treatments and custom night guards.

Emergency Dental Care

You can’t always predict a dental emergency, but when one occurs, you know you need immediate care. General dentists often provide emergency services when a patient cracks a tooth, loses a filling, or experiences a severe toothache.

What to Expect at a General Dentistry Appointment

If you haven’t been to the dentist in a while, you might not be familiar with how a typical appointment works. But never fear—the process is straightforward! Here’s what to expect at your next appointment with a general dentist:

• Initial Examination—Your dentist will review your oral health history and examine your teeth and gums. Let us know if you have any concerns about your current health.
• X-rays (if needed)—Next, your dentist may need to take some x-rays of the inside of your mouth. These are used to uncover issues not visible to the naked eye.
• Cleaning—Your teeth will be professionally cleaned to remove plaque, tartar, and stains. During this time, you may get some hygiene tips to further improve your oral health.
• Treatment Plan—If we find any issues during the cleaning, we can then discuss potential treatments, tooth procedures, and next steps. Never hesitate to ask us questions!

Take Charge of Your Oral Health Today

General dentistry is often what we picture when we think of going to the dentist. General dentists are essential to helping you maintain the best possible oral health. Whether you need a routine cleaning, filling, or a more intensive tooth procedure, the general dentists at Peak Family Dental Care are always here for you. We proudly serve patients in Flagstaff, Cottonwood, and Sedona with top-tier dental care. Request your appointment today.