It isn’t uncommon for many people to overlook the importance of good oral health. However, such an oversight is a mistake and may lead to serious issues with your physical wellbeing. This correlation between your dental health and your body’s state demonstrates how taking proper care of your teeth is just as vital as caring for the rest of your body.
Part of maintaining proper oral health requires you to make regular visits to your dentist. However, you must understand that there is more to it than that. Dentistry is a broad field that encompasses many different types of dental specialties. Here are some of the most well-recognised types of dentistry:
- General dentistry.
- Pediatric dentistry.
- Endodontics.
- Orthodontics.
- Periodontics.
- Prosthodontics.
- Oral and maxillofacial surgery.
- Oral pathology.
- Public health dentistry.
Each type of dentistry requires specialised training and expertise to ensure patients receive the highest quality of care. Depending on your oral needs, your dentist may refer you to a specialist in one of these areas.
Maintaining good oral health is essential for a healthy life, and general dentistry plays a crucial role in achieving it. The field of general dentistry focuses on providing preventative and restorative dental care services to people of all ages. Regularly visiting a general dentist can help identify potential oral health problems early on and prevent them from developing into more severe issues.
So, how do you choose general dentistry for oral health?
Taking Advantage of General Dentistry
The key to taking advantage of general dentistry is to make regular appointments with your dentist. The Australian Dental Association recommends visiting the dentist at least once every six months for a checkup and cleaning. However, you may need to schedule more frequent appointments if you have specific dental concerns.
Here is a list of services general dentists typically offer:
Preventative Services
Preventative services are at the heart of general dentistry. Regular dental checkups, cleanings, and X-rays are all designed to identify and address dental problems early on. During these visits, your dentist will thoroughly examine your mouth, including your teeth, gums, and jawbone. They will search for signs of tooth decay, gum disease, and other issues that may impact your oral health.
One of the most critical preventative services general dentistry provides is dental cleanings. During these appointments, a dental hygienist will remove any buildup of tartar and plaque from your teeth and gums, helping with the prevention of cavities and gum disease. Your dentist may also recommend fluoride treatments or dental sealants to provide your teeth with more protection from decay.
Restorative Services
Even with regular preventative care, dental problems can still occur. Therefore, general dentistry also includes a range of restorative services designed to address these issues. Common restorative procedures include fillings, root canals, and crowns. These treatments can help repair damaged teeth, eliminate infection, and restore the functionality and appearance of your smile.
Other Services
In addition to preventative and restorative services, general dentistry offers various services designed to support oral health. For example, your dentist may offer custom mouthguards to protect your teeth while playing sports or provide snoring and sleep apnea treatments to help improve your overall health.
In addition to visiting the dentist regularly, it’s also important to practice good oral hygiene at home. That includes brushing your teeth twice daily, flossing at least once daily, and using mouthwash to kill bacteria and freshen your breath.
Conclusion
General dentistry is an essential part of maintaining good oral health. By taking advantage of these services, consulting your dentist if you encounter any issues, and practising good oral hygiene at home, you can enjoy a healthy, beautiful smile for years.