Common Types of Procedures Performed by a General Dentist

General Dentist Orange, CA

A general dentist performs most of the treatments commonly used in dentistry. These oral professionals spend most of their time performing preventative treatments, like tooth cleanings, but they also perform more complex treatments, like root canals. A general dentist also serves as an educator, teaching patients how to properly take care of their teeth and gums.

Treatments that you can get from a general dentist

Here are popular treatments performed by general dentists, as well as their uses.

1. Teeth cleanings

Most people do not get their teeth cleaned often enough, but these treatments can go a long way when it comes to protecting teeth and gums against tooth decay and gum disease, respectively. During the procedure, the dentist uses a tool called a scaler to remove tartar and plaque from teeth surfaces. Plaque is the sticky film that builds up on teeth after meals and contains bacteria and acids that destroy teeth. It calcifies into tartar when left on teeth. Plaque can be removed by brushing, but tartar requires teeth cleaning. For patients who miss too many teeth cleanings, their teeth will become coated with tartar, making them more vulnerable to decay and gum disease.

2. Dental sealants

Dental sealants protect teeth that are hard to clean from tooth decay. The sealant is a varnish that is painted on teeth and forms a barrier that keeps away acids in the mouth. It is usually recommended for children who might have a hard time keeping their molars clean.

3. Fillings

This treatment is used to close up cavities and other damage from tooth decay. The filling material is used to rebuild the decayed tooth, preventing the damage from spreading.

4. Composite bonding

This involves using mixtures of plastic and glass to rebuild and repair damaged teeth. The composite can be matched with the color of the patient’s teeth so repairs look natural. Composite bonding has emerged as a more popular type of filling.

5. Orthodontic treatment

General dentists often fit patients with orthodontic devices, like braces and clear aligners, that are used to straighten teeth.

6. Crowns

Also called caps, crowns are recommended when a tooth has been too damaged to be repaired with filling or composite. The crown can save the tooth because it holds it together. It also protects the tooth from bacteria and other irritants in the mouth, and it restores the function of the damaged tooth, along with its appearance.

7. Root canal

A root canal is performed when the pulp chamber of a tooth has been opened up due to decay or damage to a tooth. It involves removing the soft tissues in the pulp chamber and sealing the tooth with gutta-percha.

8. Extractions

General dentists also perform tooth extractions due to reasons like a tooth being too damaged to be saved, creating space on a person’s jaw, or removing a problematic wisdom tooth.

Get the treatments you need

Need a dentist? Call or visit our Orange clinic to set up an appointment with our dentist.

Request an appointment here: https://www.smilegallerydental.com or call Smile Gallery Dental at (657) 390-1365 for an appointment in our Orange office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: General Dentist in Orange, CA.

Recent Posts

A General Dentist Answers Bruxism FAQs

General dentist state that bruxism is a condition that involves the grinding of the top and bottom arches of teeth. The act often happens at night while a person is asleep, making it involuntary. However, some individuals are also known to grind their teeth during the day as well. Although teeth grinding does not sound too…

How Often To Visit A General Dentist Office

Has it been a while since you had a general dentist checkup? You know how critical it is to maintain good health. Taking good care of your mouth, teeth and gums is part of your overall wellness. It may be easy to lose track of time, but you cannot forget to keep up on your…

General Dentist Tips For A Toothache

Toothaches often cause discomfort, as well as difficulty with eating and speaking, however, with the help of a general dentist, the toothache can be remedied. General dentists offer routine dental care to patients of all ages, which makes them experts at dealing with things, such as toothaches. Choosing to see a general dentist is not only…

Ask A General Dentist: What Does Saliva Do For Our Mouths?

A general dentist has a wealth of information on a variety of oral-health-related topics. It is the dentist's job to bestow this knowledge onto all patients, even for mouth functions that may be widely overlooked.Saliva plays an important role in our mouths, and without it, our oral health would be a disaster. Education about saliva…

Recent Posts

What To Look For In A Cosmetic Dentist

What To Look For In A Cosmetic Dentist

For those looking to improve how their smile looks, choosing the right cosmetic dentist is key. Because cosmetic dentistry is not a recognized dental specialty, any dentist can claim to be a cosmetic dentist. Therefore, finding the right professional for you can be a challenge. Fortunately, knowing what qualities to look for takes much of…

How A Cosmetic Dentist Can Improve Your Smile

How A Cosmetic Dentist Can Improve Your Smile

Your cosmetic dentist can help renew your smile. Many people hide dental problems most of their lives. You can avoid this situation with the help of a trained dental health provider. Understanding the ways this is possible can help you decide which procedure can benefit you the most. Here are the details about how a…