It’s easy for some people to assume that dental care is a simple matter that only requires that they brush and floss their teeth daily. While brushing and flossing are very important and should never be neglected, there are some issues that will most likely only be noticed and diagnosed through general dentistry. General dentistry refers to regular trips to the dentist for routine check-ups and cleanings. These visits are ideally preventative measures intended to catch potentially serious problems while they can still be easily treated.
General dentistry is the foundation of any dental practice and can best be described as routine maintenance of your teeth and gums. A typical general dental appointment involves an examination of the entire oral cavity that includes an oral x-ray, a periodontal screening for gum disease, a screening for cavities, bite analysis and a thorough cleaning of the teeth. This cleaning usually is much more thorough and complete than what most people can do when they brush their teeth and often goes in between the teeth in ways that a toothbrush normally does not.
A regular dental appointment is usually painless, which should help to relax those who avoid visiting the dentist. Modern technology has even made a visit to the dentist quicker and more painless than it has been in the past. One device that is used to ensure pain-free dentistry is known as The Wand, a computer-controlled device that can deliver a slow, controlled dose of anesthesia to completely numb one area of the gums. Many people say that The Wand resembles a ball-point pen, and is ideal for those with a fear of needles.
Whether a dentist uses more traditional methods or the latest state-of-the-art technology, the one constant is that general dentistry is very important. It’s the best way to diagnose and treat potentially serious dental problems before they get out of hand and require more expensive treatments and procedures.