A general dentist is the dental version of a general doctor. These are well-rounded professionals who have the education and training to deal with the majority of dental issues that people have. At the very least, patients should visit a dentist at least twice each year for a professional cleaning and oral examination. Here are some of the popular procedures performed at our general dentist office:
Teeth cleanings are used to remove tartar and plaque buildup on teeth surfaces. During the procedure, the dentist will use a metal tool to scrape tartar off the patient's teeth. The process also eliminates minor stains and discoloration on the person's teeth. During the procedure, the dentist will examine the patient's mouth looking for signs of any developing issues. Dentists recommend getting teeth cleaned at least twice each year.
Fluoride treatments are recommended for patients who are more susceptible to tooth decay than others. It infuses the patient's teeth with fluoride and can protect them from decay for up to six months. The fluoride is typically spread on a mouthpiece that the patient bites down on and holds in place for about a minute.
Dental sealants help to protect teeth from decay. They are a thin rubbery coating that is applied to a tooth's biting surfaces. A sealant prevents food particles and bacteria from getting into grooves, keeping tooth decay at bay. Dental sealants are particularly effective when used on teeth that are hard to clean, like the molars.
Teeth whitening treatments can be used to deal with most types of stains and discoloration. Some whitening products can be purchased at grocery stores, but for best results, a whitening treatment performed by a dentist is the way to go.
The bleaching agents used by dentists are more concentrated than those found in over-the-counter whiteners, and that leads to significantly better results. According to the American College of Cosmetic Dentistry, a single teeth whitening treatment can improve the appearance of a person's teeth by up to ten shades.
A general dentist also has the skills needed to perform orthodontic treatments with devices like braces, jaw expanders and clear aligners. These devices are used to deal with teeth alignment issues like overbites and crooked teeth. Patients with severe orthodontic issues might be referred to a professional called an orthodontist for further treatment.
Putty-like resins are used to deal with a range of oral issues, from cavities to broken teeth. The composite can be matched with the color of the patient's teeth and applied directly to the damaged tooth. It is then molded into the desired shape before being hardened with an ultraviolet light. A general dentist has the skills needed to deal with most dental issues. Contact one today to learn more about the treatments that are offered by our office.
Request an appointment here: https://metrosmiles.com or call Metro Smiles Dental at (718) 841-9591 for an appointment in our Forest Hills office.
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