Why are general dental services so important?

When did you last visit your dentist?

Was it to treat an unmanageable toothache that just wouldn’t go away? Or perhaps you needed a dental filling or a cleaning? The thing is, dentists offer much more than just that. The usual stereotypical picture that pops into mind when people think of dentists, is one of a scary-looking man/woman wearing a surgical mask and wielding a dental drill. General dental services are no longer what they used to be- so fear not!

What are general dental services?

General dental services seek to prevent, diagnose and treat a host of oral health issues. Dentists even carry out cosmetic dental procedures designed to enhance the appearance of your teeth. General dentistry, therefore, includes a range of procedures and treatments needed to maintain and improve your oral health.

The aim of general dental services is seen as:

1. Preventative: Oral health is maintained by preventing the onset of oral diseases with the help of dental x-rays and professional cleanings
2. Restorative: Timely treatment is provided by your dentist if there is an oral problem, in order to restore proper tooth function. This includes treatment for dental trauma which may occur if a tooth is knocked out
3. Cosmetic: Various treatments are offered to attain a picture-perfect smile- all the justification you need for countless teeth-bearing selfies

What treatments and procedures are included in general dental services?

You will find that your dentist offers a range of dental treatments, some you may not have even known about! The most common dental services are:

Dental Cleanings

It is recommended that your teeth be professionally cleaned at least twice a year. Dental cleanings remove plaque and tartar build-up with the aim of preventing cavities and gum disease.

Dental Fillings

Various materials, such as gold, composite resin, porcelain and amalgam are used to fill in cavities in order to restore normal tooth functionality.

Bonding

A tooth-coloured resin is applied to the tooth to fill in any chips and gaps between teeth, improving both appearance and functionality. Bonding is also used to ensure that a veneer adheres to the surface of your tooth.

Application of dental sealants

These are coatings that are applied to the chewing surfaces of molars and pre-molars as a means of protection against decay.

Extractions

Your dentist will remove any diseased/infected teeth that cannot be repaired or restored to normal function.

Root canal treatment

A root canal is a procedure that is used to remove the infected tissue inside the tooth structure in order to prevent the need for an extraction.

Application of dental crowns

Often referred to as “caps”, crowns are fitted over damaged teeth in order to prevent further damage and ensure proper tooth functionality. Crowns can also be used to improve the look of stained or discoloured teeth.

Fabrication and placement of bridges

A bridge is a restoration device made up of two or more crowns that are placed on the teeth on either side of a gap left by a missing tooth, and an artificial tooth.

Insertion of dental implants

Dental implants are titanium screws, in the shape of a tooth root, that are implanted in the jawbone, to which artificial teeth are attached.

Temporomandibular Joint Disorder Treatment

This involves treatment for any pains in the jaw that can hinder biting and chewing.

Cosmetic procedures

From tooth reshaping to teeth whitening, and the application of veneers – dentists offer various cosmetic procedures that focus on enhancing your smile.

At My Dental Care @ West End, we provide a wide range of general dental services. Whether you’re looking to have your teeth professionally cleaned, whitened, or anything in between- we’re happy to assist you in any way we can! So, give us a call today and take that step towards improving your smile and overall oral health.