General dentistry is a branch of dentistry that focuses on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of various dental conditions that affect the teeth, gums, and other oral tissues.
General dentists provide a wide range of dental services, including:
- Dental cleanings and exams: Regular cleanings and exams help maintain good oral health and prevent dental problems.
- Fillings: Fillings are used to repair cavities caused by tooth decay.
- Crowns: Crowns are used to restore damaged teeth or to cover teeth that have undergone root canal treatment.
- Bridges: Bridges are used to replace missing teeth by anchoring a false tooth to adjacent teeth.
- Root canal therapy: Root canal therapy is used to save a tooth that has become infected or inflamed.
- Tooth extractions: Tooth extractions are necessary when a tooth is too damaged or decayed to be saved.
- Gum disease treatment: Gum disease is a common dental problem that can be treated with deep cleaning, antibiotics, and other procedures.
- Teeth whitening: Teeth whitening is a cosmetic procedure that can improve the appearance of stained or discolored teeth.
- Dental implants: Dental implants are a permanent solution for missing teeth that involve surgically placing a titanium post into the jawbone to support a replacement tooth.
General dentists also provide patient education and preventive care, including tips for good oral hygiene, proper nutrition, and regular dental check-ups. They work closely with other dental specialists, such as orthodontists, oral surgeons, and periodontists, to provide comprehensive dental care for their patients.