Did you know that your general dentist can do more than clean your teeth? Your general dentist can perform many different dental procedures to help you maintain good oral health. A general dentist Saratoga, CA, can do everything from teeth cleaning and fluoride treatments to more complex procedures such as root canals and dental implants.
When you book an appointment with a general dentist, you will likely be asked about your dental history and any concerns about your teeth. The dentist will then thoroughly examine your mouth, teeth, gums, and throat.
This examination may include taking x-rays to check for signs of tooth decay or other problems. After the examination, the dentist will discuss their findings with you and develop a treatment plan.
Here are just a few of the different dental procedures that your general dentist can do:
Dental Fillings
If you have a cavity, your general dentist can fill it with a dental filling. Dental fillings are available, including amalgam (silver), composite (tooth-colored), and gold. Your general dentist can recommend the best kind of filling for your needs.
Dental Bridges
A dental bridge helps bridge the gap after you have lost one or more teeth. A dental bridge comprises two dental crowns placed on the teeth adjacent to the gap and one or more false teeth (pontics) placed in between. Dental bridges are available in various materials, including gold, porcelain, and metal.
Root Canals
A root canal is a procedure that is used to treat a tooth that has been damaged by decay or infection. During a root canal, the damaged tissue inside the tooth is removed, and the tooth is then sealed.
Dental Implants
A dental implant is a metal post surgically placed in the jawbone to replace a missing tooth. Once the implant has bonded with the jawbone, a dental crown is placed on top of it.
Dental Veneers
Dental veneers are thin, porcelain or resin “shells” placed over the teeth’ front surface. Veneers can improve the appearance of the teeth.
Apart from these dental procedures that a general dentist can offer, here are the benefits you can enjoy when you regularly see this specialist:
- Maintaining good oral health: It is advisable to visit a dentist every six months for a teeth cleaning and checkup. This way, potential problems can be caught early and treated before the issue becomes more serious.
- Preventing gum disease: Gum is a leading cause of tooth loss in adults. Seeing your dentist regularly can help prevent gum disease from developing or progressing.
- Avoiding bad breath: Bad breath is often caused by poor oral hygiene. By seeing your dentist regularly and practicing good oral hygiene, you can help prevent bad breath.
- Improving your overall health: Good oral health is linked to good health. By seeing your dentist regularly, you can help improve your overall health.
As you can see, there are many different dental procedures that Kiran Rapal, DDS, can do. If you have concerns about oral health, schedule an appointment with your dentist.