General dentistry refers to the branch of dentistry that focuses on the overall maintenance of oral health and the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of common dental conditions.
It is often referred to as primary dental care or comprehensive dental care.
1- Dental examinations and check-ups: Regular dental check-ups are essential for maintaining oral health. General dentists perform comprehensive examinations of the teeth, gums, and oral tissues to assess overall oral health, identify any issues, and recommend appropriate treatments.
2- Dental cleanings: General dentists perform professional dental cleanings, also known as prophylaxis or scaling and polishing, to remove plaque, tartar, and stains from the teeth. Cleanings help prevent gum disease, tooth decay, and bad breath.
3- Fillings: General dentists diagnose and treat dental cavities by removing decayed tooth structure and restoring the affected teeth with fillings. Common types of fillings include amalgam (silver) and composite (tooth-colored) materials.
4- Dental crowns and bridges: General dentists may fabricate and place dental crowns, also known as caps, to restore severely damaged or decayed teeth. They can also design and place dental bridges to replace missing teeth and restore the function and aesthetics of the smile.
5- Root canal therapy: General dentists perform root canal treatments when the dental pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels, becomes infected or damaged. This procedure involves removing the infected pulp, cleaning and disinfecting the root canals, and sealing them with a filling material.
6- Extractions: General dentists may perform tooth extractions when a tooth is severely damaged, decayed, or impacted (such as with wisdom teeth). They can also provide guidance on tooth replacement options if necessary.
7- Gum disease treatment: General dentists diagnose and treat gum diseases, such as gingivitis and periodontitis. They may perform deep cleaning procedures called scaling and root planing to remove plaque and tartar buildup below the gum line and promote gum tissue healing.
8- Oral health education: General dentists play a crucial role in patient education, providing guidance on proper oral hygiene practices, diet and nutrition for good oral health, and preventive measures to avoid dental problems.
General dentistry encompasses a broad range of services aimed at maintaining and improving oral health. Dentists in this field often work in collaboration with other dental specialists when necessary, ensuring comprehensive care for their patients.
