Everybody wants to have a beautiful smile, but even with daily brushing and flossing, it’s not always possible to avoid dental problems. From cavities to gingivitis, there are many oral health problems that can not only hurt your smile but negatively affect your overall well-being. This is where general dentistry comes into play.
Much like general medicine, general dentistry may seem like a broad term that encompasses a wide range of oral health practices and procedures. So, what exactly is general dentistry? How does it differ from cosmetic dentistry? What can general dentistry do for your smile and why is it so important? Finally, where can you go to find a quality general dentistry clinic in Chico, California?
In today’s guide, we will answer all these questions and more, so let’s get started!
What Is General Dentistry?
As the name implies, general dentistry refers to dental practices focused on the overall health of your teeth, gums, and mouth. From routine cleanings to the treatment of tooth decay, general dentistry covers what most people think of when they go to the dentist for a check-up. Here are just a few of the most common practices you can expect from general dentistry:
- Routine check-ups, dental cleanings, and other preventative oral care
- Examinations to diagnose oral disease
- Treatments for temporary or chronic oral health issues
In other words, if you go to the dentist because you have a toothache, you’ve scheduled a routine cleaning, or you have concerns about your oral health, these activities would all fall under the umbrella of general dentistry.
General vs. Cosmetic Dentistry
Sometimes it's easier to understand a broad category by comparing it to something else. Cosmetic dentistry is often considered the opposite of general dentistry, insofar as one is focused almost exclusively on the aesthetics of your teeth, gums, and mouth (cosmetic dentistry), while the other is focused on the health of these same components (general dentistry). You might seek out a cosmetic dentist, for example, if you want whiter teeth, dental implants, or veneers.
It’s important to note that there is some crossover between general and cosmetic dentistry. For instance, if you need braces because your bite is misaligned to the point that you have difficulty chewing or swallowing, this would require an orthodontist. Orthodontics can combine some aspects of general dentistry and cosmetic dentistry by addressing health and aesthetic concerns simultaneously.
Why General Dentistry Matters
General dentistry is (arguably) the most effective form of dental medicine. Since it is focused on oral health, it is the field of dental medicine that is most often required by the average person. There are sub-categories of general dentistry and dental professionals who help address more specific issues and conditions, like an oral surgeon who can correct severe bite misalignment or a periodontist who can diagnose and treat gum disease. However, you will often need to visit a general dentistry clinic first to discover any underlying issues and then be referred to a specialist if necessary. In many cases, a generalist dentist will be able to diagnose, treat, and manage the most common conditions, including tooth decay, gingivitis, and periodontitis.
Get a Brighter Smile With Kremer Dental
Do you want to improve the look and feel of your smile? Are you lacking a quality dentist who can help with a broad range of oral health conditions? Finally, are you looking for a top-tier dental clinic in Chico, California? If so, Kremer Dental is the answer. At Kremer Dental, we offer a wide range of general dentistry services, as well as more specialized care. This ensures that you can improve your smile with every visit. Reach out to us today to learn more or schedule an appointment!
