General dentistry involves a variety of procedures that assist patients in maintaining good oral health. This includes routine dental checkups, teeth cleanings, and other preventative services. While those are essential parts of any dental care routine, there are many other ways that a general dentist can help improve your oral health. If you’re wondering more about what general dentistry is and how it can help you, here’s what you need to know!
Types of General Dentistry Procedures
Dental Checkup
First and most importantly, your general dentist will perform checkups every six months in order to check the health of your teeth, gums, and mouth as a whole. This also includes a review of your medical history to look for any potential risk factors or signs of oral cancer. The dentist in San Mateo, CA, will also perform an oral cancer screening during your exam, which will look for abnormal growths and lesions in your mouth. If any are found, the dentist can recommend the appropriate follow-up treatment.
Dental Cleanings
We’ll clean your teeth and gums to remove any plaque buildup that can potentially cause cavities or lead to gingivitis. We can also provide fluoride treatments to strengthen your tooth enamel and prevent tooth decay. If our dentist in San Mateo, CA, finds any signs of a problem during this appointment, they may recommend more intensive treatment, such as fillings, root canal therapy, or even dental crowns.
Fillings
Dental fillings are the most common type of general dentistry procedure, and they are also one of the most effective treatments for repairing tooth decay. A filling is a custom dental restoration that is designed to fill in the space left behind by damaged tooth enamel caused by decay. The dentist will first remove all of the decayed tissue from the tooth before filling the space with composite resin material. This material is color matched to the surrounding teeth for a natural look. Once the dentist is done with the appearance, the filling will be smoothed and polished so that it matches the rest of the patient’s smile. Many patients benefit from sedation during their general dentistry procedures, such as getting a filling.
Root Canal
The dentist in San Mateo, CA, can also provide necessary restorative services like root canal therapy. Root canal therapy may be necessary if you’re suffering from an infection deep within your tooth, most commonly caused by deep decay or trauma to the tooth. During a root canal, the dentist will remove the infected pulp from the center of the tooth and seal it off to prevent further infection. After the procedure, you’ll typically be given a temporary filling to protect the tooth until you’re able to come back for a permanent crown.
To learn more about our dental services, book an appointment with our dentist in San Mateo, CA, by calling us at (650) 342-9055. You can also visit us at 255 N San Mateo Dr Suite 3, San Mateo, CA 94401. We will be happy to answer any questions you have.
