Services Offered in a General Dentistry Practice

General dentistry in Gaylord includes a wide array of services. Includes a great cleaning by a dental hygienist, dental bitewing x-rays to check for the presence of any decay between the teeth, and a thorough oral exam by an Gaylord, MI dentist. In some cases, periapical x-rays will be taken to give the dentist a complete look at your teeth and their roots. This allows the dentist to detect abscesses and cysts, as well as evaluate a tooth’s bone level and root structure. Dentists recommend that you receive a dental checkup every six months to prevent common dental problems, such as periodontal disease and tooth decay.

In addition to taking x-rays, cleaning, and performing a dental exam, a general dentist will perform oral cancer screenings, as well as discuss cavity prevention. Dentists will also treat any cavities, perform tooth extractions, and do root canals. The dentist may or may not be able to fill your cavity or remove a tooth the same day as your visit.

Tooth Extractions
In the event you have a tooth that has been severely damaged, your dentist may recommend extraction. This is especially common when an abscessed tooth is the cause of the damage, as removing the tooth helps minimize the chances of infection spreading. When a tooth is extracted, a local anesthetic is applied to the area beforehand to keep patients as comfortable as possible. After healing, you may require a bridge, dentures, or dental implants.

Root Canals
When a badly infected or decayed tooth is present, your dentist in Gaylord, MI may suggest a root canal. This begins with an x-ray to determine the shape and size of the root canals. Anesthesia is administered before a rubber ring is attached to keep the root dry. An access hole is then created to allow the dentist to begin removing the pulp, as well as any decaying nerve tissue. After the tooth has been cleaned completely out, the dentist fills and seals it with a rubber compound and sealer paste. Finally, a filling is placed over the hole.

In some cases dentists recommend having a crown applied to further protect the tooth. This allows the tooth to restore itself to a fully functioning state and also prevents breakage in the future.

Making certain to visit your general dentistry practice every six months is the key to keeping teeth that both function perfectly and look beautiful.