General Dentistry is the medical industry concerned with the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of various diseases and abnormalities involving the teeth, gums, and jaw structure. While abnormalities such as crooked teeth and misaligned jawbones are often hereditary, diseases of the mouth are usually attributed to an excess growth of bacteria such as plaque, which can be managed by regular dental checkups and the consistent practice of good oral hygiene.
Those who practice in general dentistry are: dentists, dental assistants, technicians, and hygienists. General Dental surgery involves various procedures performed by a dentist to treat maxillofacial diseases and disorders – the most common known as tooth cavities. Cavities are treated by drilling out the infected area of the tooth and filling the hole with dental amalgam, composite, porcelain, silver/mercury, or gold.
General dentists perform basic procedures that include: examinations / check-ups , tooth cleaning, tooth scaling, x-rays, and the use of other tools and equipment to prevent, detect and treat tooth decay (caries) and gum diseases.
Other general dentistry procedures may include: dental crowns, dental fillings, dental bonding, preventative care, periodontics, perio-protect, and root canals.
General Dentistry also incorporates the education and training of patients (pediatric, seniors, and families), to maintain a daily regiment of care of their teeth and gums through brushing after meals, daily flossing, and the use of fluoride mouthwash. This promotes the lasting and healthy condition of teeth and gums.
Poor oral hygiene can not only lead to bad breath and tooth decay, but can also be responsible for: Canker Sores, Gingivitis, Gum Disease, oral thrush, oral cancer, sinus infections, toothaches, tooth sensitivity, and impacted teeth.
What to consider in finding the right general dentist for you and your family:
1) How long has the dentist been practicing for?
2) How knowledgeable is the dentist in performing the procedure you require?
3) Does the dentist perform all procedures or is there a referral process?
4) Are there options to the treatments you require? Can the dentist perform them all?
5) How up-to-date is the dentist in the latest techniques and procedures in the industry?
6) What accreditation does the dentist have and what associations are they a part of?
7) Ask if they are available for emergency care – evenings and weekends.
8) Inquire about anesthetic and entertainment alternatives.
9) Ask about the latest technology that is used such as lasers and digital x-rays.
10) Are they friendly and courteous?
11) Be aware of the total cost and fees of all the procedures so that you are not surprised.
12) Are they discussing ALL your options with you even if they do not offer them there?
Since 1998, Dr. Jesse Chai has been a Bradford Dentist practicing in many forms of general dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, orthodontics, dentures, and other dental procedures, surgeries and treatments. To book a check-up or consultation appointment call our office at: 1-877-283-0497.