General Dentistry
General practitioners of dentistry prevent, evaluate, diagnose, and treat diseases of the oral cavity and associated structures (e.g. the temporomandibular joint), as well as maintain the functionality and esthetics of the teeth and associated tissues and structures. They can prescribe medication, x-rays, and devices for home or in-office use. Many oral diseases (such as bilateral odontogenic keratocysts) and abnormalities (such as several unerupted teeth) can indicate systemic, neural, or other diseases. A general practitioner may refer patients to a physician or a specialist for further evaluation, or vice versa for treatment.
Most general practitioners of dentistry perform restorative, prosthetic, routine endodontic therapy, routine periodontal therapy, and simple exodontia, as well as performing examinations. General practitioners can choose which cases to treat, and which will be referred to a specialist for further care. Many general practitioners are comfortable treating more complex cases, as well as placing implants and surgically extracting third molars (wisdom teeth). All dentists must achieve a certain degree of skill in various disciplines in order to graduate from dental school and earn licensure. Many complex procedures are frequently referred to specialists.
Here are some tips from an expert:
Start with using the correct size soft bristle brush. First, hold the brush at a 45-degree angle so that the bristles point toward your gum, which helps clean along the gum line where plaque builds up. Then, move the brush in small circles as you clean each tooth individually, which ensures that you give each special tooth special attention! Be sure to brush the insides as well as the outside of each tooth.
Tilt the toothbrush vertically when cleaning the insides of your front teeth, both top and bottom. Brush the biting surfaces of your teeth with a back and forth motion, which will help get all the decay bugs and gunk. Last, brush your tongue! Note that children up to age 5 or 6 don’t have the dexterity of an adult and need an easier brushing technique. We recommend the “scrub technique” where all the tooth surfaces are cleaned with a small circular motion with the bristles of the toothbrush.
Frequently asked questions regarding pediatric dentistry:
How often should I brush?
You should be brushing twice a day, optimally before bed and after breakfast. If there’s a history of decay, you should brush after snacks, too.
How often should we change toothbrushes?
The AAPD recommends getting a new toothbrush every three or four months. However, if the bristles become splayed, they no longer do the right cleaning job, so change sooner. Also, get a new brush after a cold or virus to avoid spreading those germs.
When do you use x-rays and are they harmful?
We use x-rays to diagnose dental disease between the teeth and to look for misplaced, extra or missing teeth. X-rays are not harmful, with the use of digital radiography and collimators, the amount of exposure is reduced. In fact most people are exposed to more radiation on a daily basis from the sun and cell phones.
How often should I visit the dentist?
You should visit the dentist twice a year (every six months).
How can I prevent from getting cavities?
Cavities can't be prevented in some cases due to enamel defects and hereditary predisposition. Your chances of getting a cavity can be decreased by reducing sugar intake (fruit juices, carbohydrates) and regular visits to the dentist. You may also apply a topical fluoride, which may be purchased over the counter (ACT) or by prescription.
What's the best toothpaste for me to use?
The best toothpaste for you is any toothpaste that is ADA approved and has fluoride.
Does the office follow strict infection and sterilization protocols?
The office follows all infection and sterilization protocols. All instruments are sterilized and we use disposable products, whenever possible.
First Aid for Dental Emergencies
Toothache - Clean the area around the sore tooth thoroughly. Rinse the mouth vigorously with warm salt water or use dental floss to dislodge trapped food or debris. DO NOT place aspirin on the gum or on the aching tooth. If face is swollen, apply a cold compress. Take acetaminophen for pain and call the office for an appointment as soon as possible.
Broken Tooth - Rinse the dirt from injured area with warm water. Place cold compress over the face in the area of the injury. Locate and save any broken tooth fragments. Call the office immediately.
Knocked Out Tooth - Find the tooth. Handle the tooth by the top (crown), not the root portion. You may rinse the tooth, but DO NOT clean or handle the tooth unnecessarily. Try to reinsert it in its socket. Hold the tooth in place by biting on a clean gauze or cloth. If you cannot reinsert the tooth, transport the tooth in a cup containing milk or water. Call the office immediately. Time is a critical factor in saving the tooth.
Cut or Bitten Tongue, Lip or Cheek - Apply ice to bruised areas. If there is any bleeding, apply firm but gentle pressure with a clean gauze or cloth. If bleeding does not stop after 15 minutes or it cannot be controlled by simple pressure, take the child to a hospital emergency room.
