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General Dentistry

General Dentistry

The term general dentistry describes any dentistry not performed by a specialist. We use it to refer to procedures that aren’t cosmetic or neuromuscular dentistry. This usually means procedures focused on preserving or restoring the health and function of your teeth and gums.
General dentistry can be divided into two categories:  preventive and restorative.

Preventive Dentistry

Preventive dentistry focuses on protecting your teeth and gums from damage. There are many dentistry procedures that are preventative, but the most common are oral hygiene-related. Cleaning your teeth removes plaque, which contains harmful bacteria and food particles. You should brush your teeth twice a day and floss every day to keep this plaque from building up.
Even if you do your best to brush and floss daily, there is still likely to be some plaque build-up on your teeth. This plaque absorbs minerals from your saliva and turns rock-hard, effectively turning into tartar. You can’t remove tartar safely on your own, which is why professional cleanings are necessary.
Preventive visits also include exams to search for oral health problems that are just developing, like the beginning stages of gum disease or cavities. When we see these, we can often help you avoid them just by changing your hygiene routine and/or diet.
Restorative dentistry repairs damage to your teeth and gums that is caused by oral bacteria and other sources.
There are three main sources of tooth damage that require restorative dentistry. Your teeth may be damaged by:
  • Acid from oral bacteria and/or foods and drinks you consume
  • Gradual wear from biting and chewing
  • Trauma, such as an injury, fall, or accident
For minor cavities, we use dental fillings. Small fillings are composite plastic, but larger fillings might be made of advanced ceramic, which is both attractive and strong, even stronger than your natural teeth.
For more serious damage, we may decide to use dental crowns. Even when badly damaged, teeth can be preserved with crowns, though in some cases they may also require a root canal. Teeth that must be removed can be replaced with dental implants.
Carroll Dentistry also offers comprehensive reconstructive dentistry, which can help when a majority of your teeth are damaged and require repair.

Maintain a Great Smile in Syracuse, NY

Regular dental visits are a great investment in your oral and overall health.
To learn more about the general dentistry procedures we offer, please call (315) 474-4232 today for an appointment at Carroll Dentistry.

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