Visiting the dentist may not always be the most exciting thing on your to-do list, but it is undoubtedly one of the most necessary tasks to keep your teeth healthy and beautiful. General dentistry is one of the most crucial branches of dental care. It encompasses all the fundamental procedures and treatments required for maintaining healthy teeth and gums, from routine checkups and cleanings to more complex procedures such as cavity fillings, root canals, and gum surgeries. This blog post will explore the basic principles of general dentistry, its various treatments, and ways to incorporate good oral hygiene practices into your daily routine. 

Routine Checkups and Cleanings 

The cornerstone of general dentistry is routine checkups and cleanings. Regular dental checkups every six months are vital for oral hygiene, as they allow your dentist to detect dental issues before they can cause significant damage to your teeth and gums. During a dental checkup, your dentist will carefully assess your teeth and gums, capture x-rays, and diligently search for indications of tooth decay, gum disease, or oral cancer. After the checkup, a dental cleaning follows. This involves removing plaque and tartar from your teeth, cleaning your teeth with a specialized toothbrush and toothpaste, flossing between teeth, and giving you tips on how to maintain your oral hygiene at home. You may also need to undergo a fluoride treatment, which helps protect your teeth from cavities and strengthen your enamel.

Cavity Fillings 

If your dentist detects a cavity during your checkup, they will need to fill it to prevent further decay. Cavity fillings involve removing the damaged part of your tooth and replacing it with a filling, such as porcelain or composite resin. This treatment is relatively quick and straightforward, depending on the size and location of the cavity. Your dentist may administer a local anesthetic to prevent any pain during the procedure.

Root Canals 

Root canals are necessary if you have an infected or inflamed pulp in your tooth. The pulp is the soft tissue inside your tooth that contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. It can become infected or inflamed due to tooth decay, cracks, or injuries. A root canal procedure entails removing the infected pulp, cleaning the tooth's interior, and filling it with a rubber-like material. Your dentist may crown the tooth to restore its shape and strength.

Gum Surgeries 

Gum surgeries are necessary when the gums have receded due to gum disease. It involves removing infected tissue, recontouring the gum line, and regenerating bone tissue if necessary. Gum surgeries are primarily used for patients with severe periodontitis or those who have not responded well to non-surgical treatments.

Home Oral Hygiene Practices 

In addition to regular dental checkups and cleanings, you must maintain proper oral hygiene practices at home. Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, floss between teeth once a day, use an antibacterial mouthwash, and eat a balanced diet that is low in sugar and carbohydrates.

For more info about general dentistry, contact a local company.