What do you know about your general dentist? Visiting the dentist at least twice a year for dental cleanings and dental checkups is more than enough for most people. However, this is just a fraction of the information a patient should know about their dentist. As you learn more about your dentist, it will become more evident why it is important to visit your dentist regularly and give you a higher appreciation of their expertise for easy trust-building. Here are some of the facts about a general dentist:
80% of Dental Professionals Are General Dentists
Out of all the dental practitioners in the country, a vast majority of them are general dentists. Only 20% of them are dental specialists who focus on a specific specialty in dentistry. Dental specialists include orthodontics, periodontics, endodontics, prosthodontics orthodontics, oral and maxillofacial surgeons, and dental public health specialists.
General Dentists Are Versatile
Like the term suggests, general dentists know all areas of dentistry, despite lacking specialized expertise like a dental specialist. However, they can still provide treatment at the basic level, which saves the patient the trouble of finding a dental specialist. Patients suffering from a range of issues can rely on general dentists for treatments.
General Dentists Perform Preventative, Cosmetic, and Restorative Dental Procedures
General dentists use preventative procedures to maintain a patient’s health and cosmetic procedures to enhance the smile’s appearance. Some of the therapeutic procedures offered by general dentists include dentures, bridges, and root canals.
Most of Their Work is Preventative
General dentists are known for restorative procedures such as root canals, but much of their dental work revolves around preventative dental care. The purpose of preventative dental care is to maintain oral health and prevent damage to the teeth. Preventive dental treatments include cleanings, dental x-rays, and fluoride treatments.
You Can’t Lie to Them
Just by assessing the state of a patient’s teeth, general dentists can tell a great deal about their habits, oral hygiene, and health. To be honest, during your visits, it is advisable to ensure you get the best treatment for optimum oral health.