GENERAL DENTISTRY

• dental x-rays
• scalings & fillings

General dentistry is a branch of dentistry that focuses on the overall maintenance of oral health and hygiene. It encompasses a wide range of dental services aimed at preventing, diagnosing, and treating oral health issues. General dentists are often the primary dental care providers for patients of all ages, and they address a variety of dental needs.

Common Services in General Dentistry

1. Preventive Care
   • Regular dental cleanings and check-ups.
   • Fluoride treatments and dental sealants.
   • Oral health education and guidance.
2. Diagnostic Services
   • Dental X-rays and imaging.
   • Oral cancer screenings.
   • Diagnosis of cavities, gum disease, and other oral issues.
3. Restorative Services
   • Filling cavities with materials like composite resin or amalgam.
   • Repairing broken or chipped teeth.
   • Treating gum disease and infections.
4. Tooth Extractions
   • Removal of decayed, damaged, or impacted teeth.
5. Custom Dental Appliances
   • Fabrication of mouthguards for sports or nightguards for bruxism (teeth grinding).
   • Dentures and partials.
6. Cosmetic Procedures (in some practices)
   • Teeth whitening.
   • Minor cosmetic corrections like bonding.
7. Emergency Dental Care
   • Addressing sudden pain, infections, or injuries.

Importance of General Dentistry

• Prevention: Regular visits help prevent serious oral health issues.
• Education: Dentists provide guidance on proper brushing, flossing, and diet for optimal oral health.
• Early Detection: Identifying issues early can save time, money, and discomfort.
• Comprehensive Care: General dentists often coordinate with specialists when advanced care is needed.

Visiting your dentist every six months is typically recommended to maintain good oral health and catch any potential problems early.

 

• SCALING

Scaling is a dental procedure that involves the removal of plaque, tartar (calculus), and stains from the surface of teeth. It is an essential part of professional dental cleaning and helps maintain oral health. Scaling primarily targets areas that are difficult to clean with regular brushing and flossing, especially below the gumline.

Types of Scaling Procedures

1. Supragingival Scaling
   • Focuses on cleaning the portion of the tooth above the gumline.
   • Removes visible plaque and tartar from the tooth’s surface.
2. Subgingival Scaling
   • Targets the area below the gumline, within the gum pockets.
   • Removes tartar and bacteria that can lead to gum disease.

Why Scaling Is Necessary

• Prevention of Gum Disease: Scaling removes bacteria and tartar that contribute to gingivitis and periodontitis.
• Improvement of Oral Hygiene: Regular scaling supports healthy gums and teeth.
• Freshens Breath: Removes odor-causing bacteria.
• Protects Against Tooth Decay: Eliminates plaque, reducing the risk of cavities.

The Scaling Procedure

• Performed using manual instruments, ultrasonic scalers, or a combination of both.
• Manual instruments include scalers and curettes for precise removal of tartar.
• Ultrasonic scalers use vibrations and water spray to break apart tartar and rinse away debris.

Is Scaling Painful?

Scaling is generally painless, but sensitivity may occur, especially if the gums are inflamed or if there’s extensive tartar buildup. A local anesthetic can be used for comfort during deep cleaning procedures.

Deep Cleaning: Scaling and Root Planing

In cases of advanced gum disease (periodontitis), scaling is often combined with root planing. This involves smoothing the root surfaces to prevent bacteria from reattaching, promoting gum healing.

Frequency of Scaling

• For individuals with healthy gums, scaling is typically done every 6 months as part of routine dental check-ups.
• For those with gum disease or higher tartar buildup, more frequent cleanings may be recommended (e.g., every 3–4 months).

Maintaining proper oral hygiene at home between visits is crucial for maximizing the benefits of scaling and ensuring long-term oral health.