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 Scottsdale, AZ
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 Sonoran Desert Dentistry at 480-439-0117 for an appointment in our Scottsdale office.
A family dentist might recommend fluoride treatments for patients with decayed or sensitive teeth. These treatments can reverse the demineralization stage of gum disease and strengthen enamel, protecting teeth from decay for up to six months. Fluoride treatments are often performed after teeth cleanings to protect patients until their next routine appointment.Fluoride is a natural…
If you follow recommendations from the American Dental Association, you should visit your family dentist twice a year. These visits provide more than just a cleaning and dental exam; they give you the opportunity to talk with your dentist about proper oral healthcare. While it could be intimidating or embarrassing to open up to your…
Taking young children to the family dentist can be overwhelming at times, especially because they are more prone to dental fear and anxiety. However, dental care is essential for children, just as it is for adults, and should start at a very young age. The American Dental Association recommends that children visit the dentist as…
Dental veneers are thin shells that are often made of strong material. Your dentist will attach them to your treated teeth. These restorations may protect and strengthen your teeth, but they may still fail without proper maintenance. Proper care is important to achieve the results that you need. Here are the ways of properly caring…
Dental veneers are a popular cosmetic dentistry option for those who want to enhance their smile. They are thin, custom-made shells that sit on the front surface of teeth to improve their appearance. Veneers can correct dental imperfections, including stained or discolored teeth, chipped or misshapen teeth, and gaps between teeth.If you are considering getting…