As we get older suddenly we realised many things we didn't appreciate about being young - being fit, having smooth skin and having all your own teeth. As our loose teeth (and bridges) struggle to deal with chewier food we start eating bland mush and, there is no easy way to say this, OLD PEOPLE FOOD. I'm determined not to let that happen to me and I'm doing everything I can to keep my own teeth as long as possible, and when that's not possible to get the best possible teeth replacement. If you are like me and want to keep on eating whatever you want, I think you'll like my site. It's all about dental health and teeth replacement & maintenance.
Keeping your teeth young
What Types of Treatments Does General Dentistry Offer?
Mabel Hicks
When a dentist finishes their studies and goes straight into dentistry, they usually become a general dentist. Dentists that wish to specialize in an area go on to study another branch of dentistry, such as cosmetic dentistry. General dentistry covers a broad range of dental treatments and services. If you are searching for a dentist, a general dentist can offer most or all of the treatments you might need.
General dentists can offer patients a wide range of services.
Preventative dentistry
A general dentist doesn't need to undergo any additional training to practise preventative dentistry. To ensure that your mouth stays healthy, a general dentist can offer you:
- Dental examinations to check for oral problems
- Dental cleanings to prevent gum disease and cavities
- Dental x-rays to spot potential issues
If you wish to go for annual checkups with a dentist, then a general dentist is usually the person you will see.
Restorative dentistry
General dentistry also covers the restoration of teeth. If your teeth are in poor condition, then a general dentist can offer you the following services:
- Fillings for small to medium cavities
- Dental crowns for large cavities and damaged teeth
- Dental bridges to replace multiple missing teeth
- Dentures to replace one or more teeth
Although these treatments are under the restorative dentistry umbrella, they are all general dentistry procedures. In other words, all general dentists can offer these services without additional training.
Cosmetic dentistry
Many general dentists undergo some additional training after dental school and during their time as a dentist. One area that general dentists may choose to train in is cosmetic dentistry. If a general dentist has additional training in cosmetic dentistry, they can offer additional services such as:
- Porcelain veneers for stained for damaged teeth
- Composite veneers, which are cheaper than porcelain veneers
- Teeth whitening to remove stains
- Enameloplasty to reshape teeth
If you suffer from cosmetic issues, a general dentist with this training can help.
Orthodontic dentistry
Not all general dentists can offer orthodontic dentistry. This is because a general dentist needs to undergo at least two to three years of additional training to practice orthodontics as well as general dentistry. However, nowadays, some general dentists may also offer some orthodontics services to their patients. A general dentist may offer treatments such as Invisalign.
General dentistry most often covers preventative and restorative treatments. However, you may be able to find a general dentist that can also offer cosmetic or orthodontic dentistry as well.
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