What Happens in General Dentistry: Your Guide to Comprehensive Oral Health Care

At Lifetime Smiles Cosmetic Dentistry, Dr. Arzegar and our team offer a full range of general dental services to support our patients’ oral health at every stage.

Here’s a closer look at what happens in general dentistry and how each service contributes to a healthier, happier smile.

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1. Routine Check-Ups and Cleanings

Regular dental check-ups and cleanings are essential components of general dentistry and the foundation of a healthy smile. These visits allow your dentist to monitor your oral health, address any potential issues early, and keep your teeth and gums clean and plaque-free.

What to Expect During a Check-Up:

• Comprehensive Oral Exam: Your dentist examines your teeth, gums, and mouth to look for signs of decay, gum disease, or other issues.
• Professional Cleaning: A dental hygienist removes plaque and tartar buildup, especially in areas that are hard to reach with brushing alone.
• Polishing and Fluoride: Teeth are polished to remove stains, and fluoride treatments may be provided for added protection against cavities.

Tip: Schedule a dental check-up and cleaning every six months to prevent plaque buildup and maintain healthy gums.

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2. Diagnostic X-Rays and Imaging

X-rays are a critical diagnostic tool in general dentistry, allowing your dentist to see beneath the surface of your teeth and gums. This helps detect issues that may not be visible during a standard exam, such as decay between teeth, impacted teeth, or bone loss.

Types of Dental X-Rays:

• Bitewing X-Rays: Capture images of the crowns of your teeth to detect decay and check the health of restorations.
• Periapical X-Rays: Focus on one or two teeth at a time, showing the entire tooth from crown to root.
• Panoramic X-Rays: Provide a full view of your mouth, including jaw joints, sinuses, and teeth.

Tip: X-rays are typically taken annually or as needed based on your dental history and current health, so don’t hesitate to ask your dentist about your x-ray schedule.

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3. Fillings for Cavities

If your dentist identifies a cavity during your check-up, they will likely recommend a filling to restore the tooth’s function and prevent further decay. Fillings are one of the most common restorative procedures in general dentistry, and they can be completed in a single visit.

How a Filling is Done:

• Decay Removal: Your dentist removes the decayed portion of the tooth and thoroughly cleans the area.
• Filling Placement: The dentist fills the cavity with a tooth-colored composite resin or other material, shaping it to match your natural tooth structure.
• Polishing: The filling is polished for a smooth finish, making it blend seamlessly with the rest of your tooth.

Tip: Composite fillings are popular for their natural look and strength, making them a great choice for front and back teeth.

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4. Treatment for Gum Disease

General dentistry also focuses on gum health, addressing gingivitis and periodontitis to prevent tooth loss and other health issues. Gum disease treatment ranges from preventive cleanings to more intensive care, such as scaling and root planing, depending on the severity of the condition.

Gum Disease Treatments:

• Scaling and Root Planing: A deep cleaning procedure that removes plaque and tartar from below the gumline and smooths root surfaces to prevent bacteria buildup.
• Antibiotic Therapy: Sometimes, antibiotics are applied to help reduce bacterial infection in the gums.
• Regular Maintenance: Patients with a history of gum disease may need more frequent cleanings to keep gum health under control.

Tip: If you notice signs of gum disease, such as bleeding gums or bad breath, schedule a dental appointment promptly to address the issue before it progresses.

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5. Tooth Extractions

When a tooth is severely decayed or damaged beyond repair, extraction may be necessary to protect your oral health. General dentistry includes routine tooth extractions, often for issues like overcrowding, impacted wisdom teeth, or severe infection.

The Extraction Process:

• Numbing the Area: Local anesthesia is used to numb the area, ensuring a comfortable experience.
• Removing the Tooth: The dentist carefully loosens and removes the tooth, taking care to minimize impact on surrounding tissues.
• Post-Extraction Care: After removal, you’ll receive instructions on how to care for the area to support healing.

Tip: For impacted wisdom teeth or complex cases, your dentist may refer you to an oral surgeon for a specialized extraction.

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6. Root Canal Therapy for Infected Teeth

Root canal therapy is a common procedure in general dentistry for saving a tooth that has developed an infection in its pulp. By removing the infected tissue, cleaning the canal, and sealing it, a root canal preserves the natural tooth structure and eliminates pain.

Steps in Root Canal Therapy:

• Numbing the Area: Local anesthesia is used to numb the tooth and surrounding area.
• Removing Infected Tissue: The dentist carefully removes the infected pulp tissue from the tooth.
• Cleaning and Sealing: After cleaning, the canals are filled and sealed to prevent further infection, and a crown is often placed for added protection.

Tip: Don’t delay if you’re experiencing tooth pain or sensitivity, as these can be signs of infection that may require a root canal.

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7. Crowns and Bridges for Restoration

Crowns and bridges are essential in general dentistry to restore function and aesthetics when teeth are damaged or missing. A crown covers and strengthens a weakened tooth, while a bridge replaces one or more missing teeth by anchoring to adjacent teeth.

Benefits of Crowns and Bridges:

• Crowns: Protect damaged or weakened teeth, restoring function and appearance.
• Bridges: Fill gaps left by missing teeth, preventing shifting and maintaining alignment.

Tip: Crowns and bridges are custom-made for each patient, ensuring a perfect fit and natural appearance.

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8. Preventive Education and Home Care Tips

A major aspect of general dentistry is patient education. Dentists provide personalized guidance on how to maintain oral health at home, including advice on brushing, flossing, and choosing the right products.

What You’ll Learn:

• Brushing and Flossing Techniques: Proper techniques to keep teeth clean and reduce plaque buildup.
• Diet and Lifestyle Tips: Foods and habits that support strong teeth and prevent decay.
• Preventive Strategies: Tips on avoiding habits like grinding or nail-biting, which can damage teeth.

Tip: Follow your dentist’s personalized advice to reinforce your at-home care routine and prevent future dental issues.

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Lifetime Smiles: Your Trusted General Dentistry Provider in Austin

At Lifetime Smiles Cosmetic Dentistry, Dr. Arzegar and our team are dedicated to providing comprehensive general dentistry services to support lifelong oral health. From preventive care to restorative treatments, we are here to meet all your dental needs with compassion and expertise.

Why Choose Lifetime Smiles for General Dentistry?

• Comprehensive Care: We offer a full range of general dentistry services, allowing us to address all aspects of your oral health in one place.
• Personalized Treatment Plans: Our team takes the time to understand your goals and create a treatment plan tailored to your needs.
• Experienced and Compassionate Team: Dr. Arzegar brings years of experience in general and family dentistry, ensuring top-notch care in a welcoming environment.

Ready to prioritize your oral health? Schedule an appointment with Dr. Arzegar and discover the benefits of regular general dentistry.

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Achieve Optimal Oral Health with General Dentistry

General dentistry is essential for maintaining a healthy smile and preventing future issues. By committing to regular check-ups and staying informed about your oral health, you can enjoy a lifetime of strong, beautiful teeth. For more tips and insights on dental care, visit our Blog, where we share expert advice on maintaining and improving your smile through all stages of life.

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