general dentistry in woodstock, ga

Who is the one healthcare provider you see more than any other? For quite a few people, the answer is: their general dentist. There’s a good justification for that– it’s because general dentistry is distinctly directed toward the prevention of disease. As a matter of fact, it is estimated that nearly 65 percent of all dental treatment plans are either diagnostic or preventative. By placing a substantial focus on dental wellness and effective hygiene, general dentists help people avoid the progression of oral health conditions. If left without treatment, these eventually result in discomfort, lost time at work or school– and an approximated cost of billions of dollars annually.

General dentists are the main providers of oral treatment to individuals of all ages. At a standard trip to your household dentist, you will undoubtedly have a thorough examination of your mouth (including teeth, gums, and other structures), an expert cleaning, and a conversation regarding your dental (and overall) health. If your exam reveals the existence of cavities, you will probably also have a filling in the disturbed tooth. Yet these kinds of procedures, although typical, are hardly the only services your general dentist provides.

What Do General Dentists Do?

Of an estimated 143,000 dentists working in North America, some 80 percent are actually general dentists. Unlike specialists, who are mostly concentrated on a particular facet of dental practice, general dentists offer a wide array of services that are vital to your continued health, including:

Precautionary services– These help you retain excellent oral health by stopping disease before it takes hold in your mouth. Periodic exams (including diagnostic images such as x-rays) and skilled teeth cleanings are a foundation of deterence. Your general dentist may give patients thorough guidelines to improve your at-home dental hygiene, and may also suggest preventive procedures such as sealants, if required. And if you lead an active lifestyle, you could be outfitted with a custom-built mouthguard at your dentist’s practice.

Corrective Services– When a problem is identified, your dentist will assure you get prompt and appropriate treatment. Probably the most typical (and very effective) dental restoration involves removing tooth decay and placing a filling in the impacted tooth. And yet that’s not the only restorative procedure general dentists furnish. They supply you a place to head to when you need timely treatment for dental trauma– for example, a broken, loosened or knocked-out tooth. General dentists can certainly determine and treat the root causes of tooth pain or periodontal (gum) disease. They can also offer treatments for missing teeth, place crowns or bridgework, and help you get furnished with dentures. Some provide advanced treatments, including root canal therapy, orthodontics, and dental implants, as well.

Cosmetic Dental Procedures– Many general dentists can really help you get the sparkling smile you’ve often dreamt of with a range of cosmetic dental procedures. These feature teeth whitening, cosmetic bonding– even porcelain veneers. If a more vibrant smile is what you’re searching for, ask your general dentist about a smile transformation.

General Health Concerns– In many ways, your oral health can be seen as a reflection of your general health. Some dental complications may mirror issues in other parts of your body, and vice versa. For instance, neglected oral diseases can result in worse control of diabetes, an increased occurrence of cardiovascular disease, and complications prenatal. General dentists are trained to identify these and other difficulties, and offer suitable treatment or referral when needed. One special concern is obstructive sleep apnea, a potentially deadly condition that can in some cases be treated with an oral appliance. General dentists can also offer nutritional counseling, advice on tobacco cessation and general health and wellness information.

What Qualifications Do General Dentists Have?

After completing their undergraduate education, all general dentists have successfully completed four years at an accredited dental school. Further, they have fulfilled the requirements (including testing and continuing education) of state licensing boards. Some dentists have the initials DMD (Doctor of Dental Medicine) following their names, while others have DDS (Doctor of Dental Surgery). The only difference between the two is the title used on their dental school’s degrees; their education and training is exactly the same.

Alongside their standard training, some general dentists receive distinct training in particular areas– for example, implant placement, cosmetic procedures, or other therapies.

When Should I See The Dentist?

The short answer is: every six months for preventative services– and otherwise, whenever you have a worry about your oral health. You may have a straightforward signal (such as a toothache or bleeding gums) that something in your mouth needs attention. Or, you may have heard of a cosmetic procedure that you ‘d like to find out more about. In either case, don’t hesitate to call the dental office.

In regards to regular dental appointments, there isn’t really a single schedule that fits all patients. Depending upon your specific circumstances, your dentist may want to see you twice a year, every three months, or another time period. Whatever it is, don’t let those appointments go! Staying on top of the recommended schedule of preventive treatment and practicing effective oral hygiene at home are the two best ways to prevent dental disease– and keep your smile looking bright and healthy for the rest of your life.