An Inside Look on General Dentistry

Teeth are functional organs in your body that play an aesthetic role as well. Healthy teeth enhance your facial appearance and boost your self-esteem. It is necessary to observe oral hygiene practices such as brushing and flossing your teeth after meals to keep your teeth healthy. Part of practicing oral hygiene is visiting your specialist for general dentistry in Bellevue, which is essential to maintain your dental health.

What is general dentistry?

General dentistry is preventive care that involves different processes to keep your teeth in a healthy condition. It mainly entails professional cleaning – removal of plaque and tartar. During a general examination, your dentist may also use imaging tests such as x-rays to screen your teeth before recommending treatment.

Services offered by a general dentist

Some of the treatments offered by a general dentist include:

• Crowns. Your dentist may recommend artificial caps to restore a broken tooth. Dental crowns restore your original tooth’s structure and prevent further damage.
• Fillings to repair damage caused by dental decay. Fillings are made out of different materials such as porcelain, composite resin, mercury, gold, and amalgam.
• Root canal. If you have an infection in your pulp, your doctor may recommend this treatment. A local anesthetic is usually administered before the process to minimize pain and discomfort.
• Dentures. These are removable artificial teeth. They are custom-made to match your natural tooth and are used to replace a missing tooth due to an accident or disease.

During a routine check-up, your specialist may also discuss with you different tips to maintain your oral health. For example:

Use fluoride toothpaste.

While there is an array of toothpaste in the market, it is essential to note that not all contain fluoride. Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral used in different dental products to strengthen the enamel and prevent cavities. Your doctor may advise that you brush at least twice each day for the best results.

Avoid acidic and sugary foods.

Limit your intake of beverages such as soda which contains sugar. After taking sugary drinks, bacteria in your mouth feed on the sugar and produce acid as the by-product. The acid wears out the enamel and makes your teeth sensitive. Make sure you rinse your mouth with water after taking acidic and carbonated beverages.

Floss your teeth daily.

Most people ignore flossing. This is just as important and as necessary as brushing your teeth. Flossing allows you to remove food particles in areas that your toothbrush cannot reach. This helps prevent the accumulation of plaque and the formation of tartar which require professional cleaning. Floss your teeth at least every day. Do this gently to avoid hurting your gums.

Use a mouthwash.

Mouthwash contains antiseptic, which helps kill harmful bacteria between the crevices of your teeth and reduce your risk for cavities. An oral rinse is also great as it helps control bad breath. Using a mouthwash is effective when combined with good oral habits as it does not replace brushing and flossing.

It is essential to take care of your teeth by practicing good oral hygiene to prevent dental problems, including periodontal disease. Book an appointment with your dentist at EZ Dental Clinic for a dental examination to improve your oral health.