A visit to a general dentist allows you to get a dental checkup and cleaning. These days, there are different types of dentists to pick from. But, the right dentist to visit depends on your dental needs.
general dentistry in Bellevue focuses on the diagnoses, treatment, and management of people’s oral health care needs that include gum care, teeth replacement, preventative education, and treatment of mouth diseases. Visiting a dentist regularly ensures that any dental issue is addressed promptly. Also, regular dental cleanings are important to get rid of plaque buildup on the teeth that can lead to gum disease when left unattended.
Although general dentists can usually carry out the majority of the dental procedures that dental experts can, they sometimes refer their patients to specialists. This can happen when the patient needs more complex procedures or additional dental care due to health conditions. If you are wondering why you should see a general dentist, here are the reasons you should do so:
Remove Tartar
Tartar can cause tooth decay and gum disease. Tartar formation occurs when plaque is left on the surface of a tooth for a long time. While brushing and flossing the teeth can eliminate plaque, these procedures cannot get rid of tartar. Tartar hardens on teeth surfaces and must be scraped off with a scaler that a general dentist will use. By getting rid of tartar, you protect yourself against tooth decay and gum disease. Also, dental cleanings remove surface stains on your teeth.
Examine the Mouth
A dentist visually examines your mouth whenever you visit them. They may require additional tests such as X-rays based on what they find out during the examination. Such visual examinations can help spot developing dental issues. In general, it is more affordable to treat a dental problem early than to fix one that has progressed.
For instance, it is possible to reverse tooth decay with fluoride treatments when determined in its early stages. However, these treatments will no longer work with big cavities that have formed.
Perform Preventative and Restorative Treatment
Should your dentist find that your teeth are vulnerable to tooth decay and gum disease, they will perform preventative treatments. These treatments include fluoride treatments and dental sealants. Also, they will treat any issues they can find during your routine checkup. This can save you from making extra trips to their office.
Carry Out Cosmetic Treatments
A general dentist can perform cosmetic treatments such as teeth whitening or composite bonding applications. Thus, you should take advantage of your routine checkup to discuss these matters with them.