Many people get the majority of dental care from a family dentist. These types of dentists are tasked with maintaining patients' oral health and may perform a variety of procedures to do so. From cleaning to crowns to exams, family dentists can cover the essentials of oral health. These are some of the most common treatments that a patient can expect.
Family dentists perform many types of treatments. Most routine visits are similar, but a dentist may suggest an alternative procedure because of the results of an exam. A patient can also schedule a special visit if experiencing oral pain.
Most family dentists recommend that patients visit for routine cleanings and exams every six months. At these appointments, a patient can expect to receive a professional tooth cleaning and a fluoride treatment. This usually entails the use of special brushes and scrapers to clean around and in between the teeth. The result is a much more thorough cleaning than is possible with brushing and flossing.
The dentist also checks for any signs of more serious issues, such as tooth decay and gum disease. Gum disease can manifest before any obvious lesions or pain develop, so it is important that patients visit the dentist to detect any problems early. Depending on the age and oral health of the patient, the dentist may also perform a dental X-ray once a year or more. These let the dentist see below the gums and get a more comprehensive picture of a patient's oral health.
Sometimes teeth can be chipped or cracked or suffering from cavities, causing pain and discomfort. When the damage is minor, the tooth can be repaired rather than replaced. A dentist may paint on resin that matches the color of the teeth and protects the grooves on the biting surface of the teeth. In the case of a cavity, the dentist may fill the tooth to strengthen it. Modern filling materials are both durable and aesthetically compatible with the color of natural teeth.
Family dentists are prepared to answer a variety of questions related to the patient's oral health and appearance. A patient can ask about what foods and drinks cause staining. The dentist may also recommend certain types of toothpastes or brushes.
If a family dentist notices that the patient's teeth have a lot of plaque or tartar, they may recommend a deep cleaning. Deep cleanings are designed to penetrate below the gum line and remove any bacteria, plaque, tartar, or other buildup. The dentist can also utilize special tools to scrape tartar and plaque from the gums and teeth.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp:
Family Dentist Treatments in Columbia, SC
Family dentists perform a wide variety of procedures and treatments for patients. Every patient, whatever the state of their oral health, should visit a dentist every six months for a cleaning and checkup. Patients can also call a family dentist if they are experiencing pain or discomfort.
Request an appointment or call Davis & Dingle Family Dentistry at 803-567-1804 for an appointment in our Columbia office.
A unique benefit of choosing a family dentist is that this professional care for the oral health of your entire household during every stage of life. The dental needs of children, teenagers, and adults vary, so a family dentist who can offer a comprehensive range of services for every family member is a valuable asset.Family…
For many people, a family dentist is the right choice for routine dental care. While this type of practice is usually equipped to handle the specific needs of pediatric patients, it is still able to provide thorough care for adults as well. Family dentists typically offer a wide variety of services in one location and…
According to the American Dental Association, little more than half of Americans visit a family dentist twice yearly, which is the frequency with which the ADA recommends checkups. This means that an overwhelming percentage — more than 40% — only schedule a visit when something is wrong. Individuals who fall into the latter category may…
Thin, tooth-colored shells called veneers can be attached to the front of individual teeth to cover up imperfections or cracks. Used for both oral health and cosmetic purposes, patients often opt for this form of restoration to vastly improve a smile. Some people wonder if the shells can go a step further and also help…
As you age, your teeth face challenges from numerous issues. Daily wear from chewing food or stress-related grinding, gum problems from bacteria build-up, and tooth damage from the foods and drinks you consume all play a role in the deterioration of your smile.You and your dentist share a common goal: caring for and preserving your…