Standard Treatments to Expect From Your Family Dentist

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.

Types of family dentist treatments

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.

Routine cleanings

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.

Exams and X-rays

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.

Fillings and sealants

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.

Consultation for oral hygiene

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.

Deep cleaning

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.