General dentistry is a branch of dentistry that specializes in general oral health care. In this article, you will learn about the importance of general oral health care, from examining your mouth for signs of oral cancer to cleaning and therapeutic procedures like the ones done in Canyon View Dentistry Littleton. In addition, you’ll learn about the importance of regular cleanings and preventative measures.
Examining Your Mouth for Signs of Oral Cancer
Visual and tactile exams of the mouth can be used to check for signs of cancer. This is a simple process that can take just a few minutes. However, it is not 100% effective at detecting cancer. The good thing about these exams is that they are painless and can be done while you visit your dentist. Also, they are non-invasive, meaning you do not have to worry about any potential exposure to harmful chemicals or materials.
There are several types of oral cancer. While some are more likely to develop than others, there is always time to start monitoring your mouth. It is important to check your tongue, cheeks, and mandible for any abnormalities. If you spot a lump or sore, it may be cancer.
Cleaning Your Teeth
If you’ve neglected your dental hygiene, regular cleaning at a dentist is an excellent way to get your dental hygiene back on track. Regular cleanings help identify any issues and provide recommendations for improving oral health. You may have missed your last cleaning for a long time, but if you schedule an appointment now, you’ll soon be on your way to good oral hygiene.
Getting teeth cleaned is generally painless. Your dentist will use a special brush and fluoride toothpaste to remove plaque and tartar from your teeth. They will also check for signs of gum disease and decay. In some cases, she may also take a dental x-ray to see if any of your teeth need to be treated.
Performing Restorative Procedures
Restorative dental procedures are a common part of general dentistry. They help restore the function of teeth and prevent infection, extending their life. They can also be used to replace missing teeth. Common procedures include bridges, crowns, dental implants, and dentures. To ensure the health of these restorations, patients should brush their teeth at least twice a day and floss in between their natural teeth.
Dentists use a variety of dental materials in these procedures. They can use Glass Ionomers, ceramics, metals, and polymers. They can also use lasers to perform bonding and tooth-whitening procedures.
Treating Cavities
Cavities are a common problem for general dentists. These teeth-destroying diseases are caused by oral bacteria sticking to the teeth’ surface. They then break down the sugars and carbohydrates in the teeth to produce acids. These acids then create holes in the surface of the teeth. Cavities may also occur in the tight spaces between the teeth, called interproximal cavities. A bite-wing x-ray is a good way to assess the state of dental decay and identify early problems.
Preventing cavities is crucial for the oral health of children. Children should visit the dentist at least twice yearly for regular cleanings and checkups. Early-stage cavities can be treated with fluoride treatments. However, if the cavity grows large enough to reach the tooth’s dentin, it may require a dental filling or extraction of the tooth.
Performing Root Canals
Root canal therapy is an option for a patient with advanced tooth decay. It helps preserve the tooth and eliminate the pain caused by the irritation of the tooth’s nerve. Additionally, it helps keep the surrounding gum tissue healthy. Root canal therapy is similar to a routine filling and can be completed in just one or two appointments.
General dentists can perform root canals as part of their routine care. However, a specialist is recommended in the case of a complex tooth. A specialist in this field will be more knowledgeable and experienced with the procedures.
