General dentists focus on preventing general dentistry issues before they escalate into more significant concerns. Through regular oral health examinations, they identify potential problems like gum disease or tooth decay so patients can receive the right treatment at the right time.

They also offer basic restorative treatments like fillings, and can refer their patients to specialists for more extensive procedures, such as root canal therapy or dental implants. This ensures continuity of care while reducing costs for patients.

Preventive Care

General dentists work toward improving oral health and preventing future dental problems. This is done with routine examinations and cleanings, which are usually performed twice a year. During these appointments, your dentist and hygienist will remove hardened plaque and tartar, which can lead to gum disease or tooth decay.

During these appointments, your general dentist will also provide recommendations for improved oral hygiene practices. They may also recommend fluoride treatments or dental sealants to protect teeth from cavities. If they detect signs of advanced gum disease, such as gingivitis or periodontitis, they can treat them more effectively before the condition progresses.

Cosmetic Treatments

General dentists also provide cosmetic treatments, like tooth bonding. This procedure uses tooth-colored resin to improve the appearance of damaged teeth, including chips, cracks, and gaps.

Another popular cosmetic treatment is a dental filling. It restores a tooth with minor decay and prevents long-term damage.

A general dentist can perform more complex cosmetic procedures, like tooth extractions. This involves numbing the area with a local anesthetic before using specialized tools to remove the tooth from its socket.

General dentists can also perform other restorative and surgical treatments, like dental implants and straightening the smile with clear aligners. While some of these treatments are considered cosmetic, they can help prevent oral health problems that could contribute to major diseases, such as diabetes and heart disease.

Dental Implants

Dental implants are an alternative to traditional restorations for missing teeth. General dentists can help patients decide if this treatment is the best option for them, as well as perform the surgery.

General dentists also offer restorative procedures such as tooth fillings and crowns to repair damaged or decayed teeth. In some cases, a tooth may be beyond repair with these treatments and require extraction.

Once a patient and their general dentist agree that implant therapy is the best option, the surgeon will place a dental implant into the jawbone. The abutment and artificial tooth (or crown, bridge or denture) are then attached to the implant for long-term stability and aesthetics.

Root Canals

If your tooth has an infected root canal, a general dentist can perform the procedure. However, they may refer you to an endodontist, a specialist who has received advanced training in root canal treatment.

After numbing the tooth, your general dentist will drill out the infected tissue and clean the inside of the tooth. They then fill the canal with a rubbery compound called gutta-percha to prevent future infection.

They can also remove a damaged or broken tooth in a painless session. If you need a tooth replaced, a general dentist can recommend a prosthodontist to help with your teeth replacement options.

Fillings

A dental filling is a restorative treatment used to repair a tooth that has a cavity. When left untreated, cavities can lead to more severe oral health complications, like infection or tooth loss. Visiting your general dentist for regular appointments can help you spot these issues early and treat them with minimal discomfort.

The dentist first numbs the affected area of the tooth before using a dental drill to clear away any infected tissue. After cleaning the area, they will fill the hole with a composite resin, porcelain, or gold.

Gum Disease Treatment

Gum disease, which is a bacterial infection that damages the gums, can lead to tooth loss if not treated. General dentists often treat this condition by performing professional dental cleanings that remove bacteria and plaque from teeth and roots. They may also use a procedure called scaling and root planing, where the dentist scrapes off the tartar deposits below the gum line and smooths the rough areas of the roots.

General dentists can also prescribe mouthwashes, antibiotics, or surgery to restore tissue and bone that has been damaged by the disease. In severe cases of gum disease, the dentist may refer patients to a periodontist for more advanced treatment.

Oral Cancer Screening

A typical oral cancer screening consists of a visual examination of the mouth and neck for abnormalities. This is often combined with palpation of the neck for enlarged lymph nodes.

Several studies have investigated the effectiveness of various screening models, including opportunistic screening conducted by dental professionals, integrating oral cancer screening with other health care needs (e.g., general health screening), and risk-based screening targeted at asymptomatic adults.

Early detection of oral squamous cell cancer and its precursor lesions is associated with improved survival rates. However, the majority of cases are diagnosed in advanced stages. It is essential that patients attend regular dental checkups to enable their dentist to perform opportunistic screenings.