It’s surprising but true: Many Americans don’t have a regular or general dentist. Rather, many of us only go to the dentist when we have an urgent problem, such as a cracked tooth, an abscess or need a filling, or if we have a cosmetic dental procedure we’re interested in. Americans don’t visit the dentist for routine care or maintenance as much as we used to, for a variety of reasons. Whether it’s money, fear/anxiety, being too busy, or some other reason, many Americans just aren’t going to the dentist as often as they should.
While it’s understandable that issues like money can be a concern for those without insurance, or that those of us with busy schedules can’t always fit in regular cleanings, you should try your best to get to a general dentist for routine care when you can. Even if you can’t manage to go regularly, making one appointment when you can is better than no appointment. After all, ignoring little problems can lead to larger problems down the line, and ignoring routine care such as cleanings and exams can be detrimental, leading to broken teeth, activities and/or gum disease.
So what does a general dentist do? While general dentists do occasionally focus on other areas, such as cosmetic (veneers, whitening, invisible braces), or in-depth work (crowns, bridges, dentures), they generally focus on maintenance and preventative care. Some of these procedures include:
-Cleanings
-Flouride treatments
-Exams and X Rays
-Flossing and Brushing care
-Extractions
-Fillings
-Wisdom Teeth Extractions
-Root canals
-TMJ care
-Gum Disease care
-Emergency care
These are just a few of the things a general dentist can do.
Many people put off dental care because they’re worried about the expense, but programs such as CareCredit can help those for whom money and insurance is a concern. Another reason some people put off the dentist is because they have anxiety about dental procedures or worry that it will be painful. But any good dentist will do everything they can to alleviate your anxiety and keep you feeling pain-free, in some cases even providing you with medications that will help. They will ensure that you’re as comfortable and safe as possible at all times.
If you’re in need of some routine dental care in the form of a cleaning or exam, don’t put it off any longer. Make an appointment with a local dentist, such as Prince Dental Group in Midway, Utah, to get your teeth checked out and arrange a cleaning. Taking care of your teeth via routine maintenance is the very best way to avoid larger problems later, such as cavities, broken teeth, gum disease, and more.
And in the case that you do need more extensive work, most general dentists handle more complicated procedures such as bridgework, crowns and broken teeth, as well as cosmetic procedures such as veneers and caps, and Invisalign. Just ask what they offer!
Take your dental care into your own hands by contacting a general dentist today. Your smile will thank you.
