General dentists can perform dozens of different procedures, so they may have a long list of offered services. A general dentist focuses on the prevention (and fast restoration) of oral health issues. However, they may also provide more extensive procedures, such as teeth replacement, when necessary.
Some general dentistry services are more common than others. Specifically, three standard services are dental X-rays, dental cleanings, and dental fillings. Here is a more in-depth look at each of these three services and when they may be recommended by a general dentist.
Getting dental X-rays is a common diagnostic service. There are different types of dental X-rays, and each provides a unique view of the patient’s teeth and/or periodontal health. They help the dentist diagnose any oral health concerns, especially those that may not be easily detected through other diagnostic measures. Notably, the types of concerns that dental X-rays can help diagnose include (but are not limited to):
General dentists also perform oral examinations during routine visits. This involves a visual inspection of the patient's mouth with special dental instruments. Some general dentists offer oral cancer screenings too.
Dental cleanings are how dentists remove plaque and tartar buildup on patients' teeth. Good oral care at home between check-up visits is the best way to reduce the risk of cavities, gum disease, and other common oral health complications. However, even with good at-home oral hygiene and care, patients can still develop plaque and tartar on their teeth and along the gum line. Routine dental cleanings involve scaling away this excess plaque and polishing teeth to help prevent future buildup.
There are other preventive services that a general dentist may recommend. For instance, a dentist may recommend dental sealants for patients who are more vulnerable to getting cavities on the chewing surfaces of their molars (this is why such cavities are common among children). Fluoride treatment can help prevent cavities in cases where the patient has weakened enamel.
A dental filling is a common restorative procedure for treating dental cavities. During this procedure, the dentist cleans the decayed portion of a tooth, sterilizes it, and then fills it with a special filling. There are different material options for dental fillings, including composites, amalgam, and glass ionomer.
General dentists offer other types of restorative procedures, including root canal therapy, scaling and root planing (deep dental cleaning), dental crowns, dental bonding, and tooth replacement (e.g., implants or dentures).
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