General dentistry plays a crucial role in maintaining our overall oral health. It encompasses a wide range of services, from routine checkups and cleanings to more complex procedures like dental crowns. This article explores the general dentistry experience, highlighting the importance of preventive care and explaining the process of getting a dental crown.

Preventive Care – The Foundation of General Dentistry

Regular dental checkups are the cornerstone of general dentistry. These appointments typically occur every six months and serve two primary purposes – prevention and early detection. During a routine checkup, a dentist or dental hygienist will thoroughly examine your teeth, gums, and mouth for any signs of dental issues. Preventive care involves professional teeth cleaning to remove plaque and tartar buildup, which can lead to cavities and gum disease if left untreated. Your dentist may also perform X-rays to identify any hidden dental problems. By catching issues early, such as cavities or gum disease, you can avoid more extensive and costly dental treatments down the road.

The Dental Cleaning Experience

A dental cleaning is an integral part of the general dentistry experience. It begins with the dental hygienist using specialized tools to scrape away plaque and tartar from your teeth. This process, called scaling, not only keeps your teeth clean and healthy but also prevents the development of gum disease. After scaling, your hygienist will polish your teeth using a gritty toothpaste. This not only leaves your teeth feeling smooth but also removes surface stains. Finally, they will floss your teeth to ensure that all plaque and debris are removed from between your teeth.

X-rays and Diagnosis

During your checkup, your dentist may recommend X-rays to get a more in-depth view of your oral health. X-rays can reveal cavities, bone loss, impacted teeth, and other hidden issues that might not be visible during the physical examination. These images are an invaluable tool for early diagnosis and treatment planning.

Dealing with Dental Issues – The Case of Dental Crowns

While preventive care is vital, sometimes dental issues cannot be avoided, and more extensive treatments are necessary. Dental crowns are one such treatment commonly performed in general dentistry.

A dental crown, also known as a dental cap, is a custom-made covering that fits over a damaged or weakened tooth. Crowns are used to restore a tooth’s shape, size, strength, and appearance while protecting it from further damage. Here’s a look at the process of getting a dental crown:

Diagnosis – The first step is identifying the need for a dental crown. This usually occurs when a tooth has extensive decay, a large filling, or a crack that compromises its structural integrity.

Preparation – The general dentist will prepare the tooth by removing the damaged or decayed portions. The tooth is then reshaped to accommodate the crown.

Impression – An impression of the prepared tooth is taken, which serves as a mold for creating the custom crown.

Temporary Crown – While the permanent crown is being fabricated, a temporary crown is placed to protect the tooth.

Fabrication – The impression is sent to a dental laboratory, where skilled technicians craft the permanent crown to fit your tooth precisely. Crowns can be made from various materials, including porcelain, metal, or a combination of both.