What Procedures Can a Family Dentist Perform?

Family dentist perform a range of services, and each family dentist has their own unique list of procedures that they offer. However, there are procedures that are more common, and understanding the types of treatment you can receive from a family dentist can help individuals decide when it is necessary to undergo a visit. 

Common procedures performed by family dentists

Family dentists address weakened enamel, dental cavities, teeth discoloration, damaged teeth (chips, cracks, etc.) and teeth alignment concerns. In addition to addressing issues after they develop, they also help patients with long-term prevention of issues such as gum disease, enamel erosion and teeth damage. 

Dental cleanings

Dental cleanings are designed to remove plaque and tartar build-up on teeth and along the gum line. It is a non-invasive process that uses a “scaler” to remove the plaque build-up. For severe cases of gum disease (periodontitis), the family dentist may perform a deep dental cleaning, which is also called scaling and root planing. This is a similar procedure, although it involves cleaning below the gum line and smoothing the roots of teeth. 

Dental fillings

A dental filling addresses cavities. The procedure involves removing the decay on the tooth and filling the cavity with a substitute material (amalgam or composite resin). This is a very common procedure performed by family dentists. Without a filling, the cavity could become worse and require a root canal or tooth extraction. 

Dental crowns

Dental crowns restore the size, shape and function of a damaged tooth. There are different materials the dentist may use, including ceramic, porcelain-fused-to-metal, metal alloy and gold. The procedure is relatively non-invasive and has a very high success rate. A dental crown may be necessary for teeth that are chipped, cracked or worn-down. 

Dental sealants

Dental sealants are protective coatings that are placed over teeth that are the most vulnerable to cavities. They are placed primarily over the biting surface of molars and premolars. Family dentists often recommend sealants for children that still have their primary teeth, although adults can benefit from dental sealants as well. 

Teeth straightening

Many family dentists also offer orthodontic treatment, including traditional braces, lingual braces, ceramic braces and clear aligners. This is appropriate for patients of all ages that have crooked teeth, overcrowded teeth, teeth gaps or a jaw malocclusion (underbite, overbite, crossbite, etc.). 

Teeth whitening

Family dentists also treat cosmetic concerns. This includes stained teeth. For minor stains, the family dentist can perform an in-office professional teeth whitening procedure to remove the stains and brighten the shade of teeth. For more severe stains, the family dentist may recommend dental veneers, which are thin layers of porcelain material that are custom-fit to improve the appearance of more visible teeth. 

Talk to a family dentist about oral care and cosmetic treatment

Get in touch with our family dentist team by phone or message to find out how we can help you. We are glad to address oral health or cosmetic concerns, and we can arrange a consultation visit so you can learn more about the procedures we offer.

Are you considering a family dentist in the Troy area? Get more information at https://www.thanasasdds.com.

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