Types of Care from a Dental Practice

Dental practices provide essential oral health services to patients of all ages. These services range from preventive and restorative treatments to cosmetic and emergency procedures. Understanding the types of care available at a general dental practice can help patients make informed decisions about their oral and overall health.

Preventive care

Preventive care is a cornerstone of dental practice services. Regular check-ups and cleanings help to prevent cavities, gum disease, and other oral health issues. Examinations typically include digital X-rays and screenings for systemic health conditions like oral cancer. Professional cleanings remove plaque and tartar, reducing the risk of tooth decay and periodontal disease. Additionally, dentists often recommend fluoride treatments and dental sealants for an additional layer of protection against decay.

Restorative care

When dental issues arise, restorative care becomes necessary to repair or replace damaged teeth. Examples of restorative dental services include:

• Dental fillings
• Dental crowns
• Dental bridges
• Inlays and onlays
• Root canal therapy
• Fixed or removable dentures

Cosmetic services

Many dental practices offer cosmetic treatments to improve the appearance of a patient's smile. For example, teeth whitening is a popular option for brightening discolored and stained teeth, providing long-lasting results compared to over-the-counter whitening products. Similarly, a dental veneer covers the front surface of chipped, misaligned, or stained teeth with a thin porcelain shell. Dental bonding is another option that corrects minor imperfections using tooth-colored resin, avoiding the need to file down tooth enamel. Some dental practices also have orthodontic treatments, such as clear aligners, to improve teeth alignment and bite function.

Periodontal care

Gum health is an essential aspect of oral care. Periodontal treatments address conditions that affect the gums. For example, scaling and root planing are deep-cleaning procedures where the general dentist removes bacteria below the gum line to treat gingivitis and periodontitis. For more advanced cases, surgical interventions, such as gum grafting or pocket reduction, may be necessary to restore the patient's gum health and prevent further damage.

Emergency dental care

Some dental practices provide emergency services for patients experiencing sudden pain, injury, or infection. Common emergencies include:

• Severe toothaches
• Broken or fractured teeth
• Knocked-out teeth
• Broken restorations (e.g., fillings and crowns)
• Oral abscesses

Immediate treatment from a dental professional can alleviate discomfort and prevent further oral health complications. Additionally, many dental practices offer same-day appointments to effectively address urgent dental concerns.

Oral surgery

Certain oral health conditions require surgical intervention. General dental practices may offer minor oral surgeries, allowing patients to get the care they need under the same roof. Common procedures include tooth extractions, wisdom tooth removal, and biopsy of suspicious oral lesions. However, it is important to note that while some general dentists perform these treatments, complex cases may require referral to an oral surgeon.