4 Preventive General Dentistry Treatments

General dentistry focuses on diagnosing, managing and treating dental and oral health problems. Additionally, general dentists administer routine care so that patients can maintain good oral health. Routine care does include preventive treatments, which can help patients avoid cavities, infections or injuries.

Preventive general dentistry treatments can be very beneficial long-term. They allow patients of all ages to maintain healthy teeth and avoid potential problems. Being aware of the different options can be helpful to patients considering the different preventive treatments currently available.

4 Preventive treatments in general dentistry

The following general dentistry treatments are great options for preventing things like cavities. Keep reading to find out more.

1. Dental bonding

One of the most common preventive general dentistry treatments is dental bonding. General dentists recommend dental bonding for patients of all ages, including children. Bonding coats the teeth and helps protect against cracks, chips and even cavities.

During a dental bonding appointment, the general dentist will paint a dental solution over the enamel of each tooth. The solution will be cured using a special light and it will harden on the surface. Bonding is permanent and can provide long-term preventive measures.

2. Dental deep cleanings

Undergoing regular dental deep cleanings is a great way to prevent infection or cavities. General dentistry offices can provide regular deep cleanings to patients of all ages. Most dentists recommend that these cleanings be done at least twice a year, however, in some situations, patients are able to have them done on a more frequent basis.

Dental deep cleanings are typically done by a hygienist. If there is a severe build-up of plaque or tartar, the patient may be referred to an endodontist.

3. Dental fillings

A common general dentistry treatment that falls under the preventive category is a dental filling. Dental fillings are actually done to repair a damaged tooth. However, they can prevent further damage from occurring. Often times, fillings are used when the tooth only has a minor cavity. Once placed, it can prevent long-term damage from occurring.

Dental fillings can be made of metal alloys or ceramic materials, depending on the patient's desire and the general dentist's recommendation. Both material options provide the necessary measures to prevent decay or damage.

4. Fluoride treatment

One of the more common general dentistry preventive treatments is fluoride administration. Fluoride is a dental agent that strengthens the enamel. General dentists recommend that patients undergo fluoride treatment at least twice a year to ensure that the teeth remain healthy and strong.

Fluoride treatments in a general dentistry office are relatively easy. The patient will wear a gel-based tray for a few minutes or have a solution painted onto the enamel.

The bottom line

General dentistry allows patients to undergo preventive treatments to help protect against decay and infections. Any questions or concerns about preventive treatment options should be addressed by a general dentistry office. Reach out to our office today to get started.

Request an appointment here: https://www.abbadent.com or call Abbadent Family & Cosmetic Dentistry at (563) 556-8388 for an appointment in our Dubuque office.

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