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Everyone needs professional care to maintain healthy teeth and gums. These days, it is much easier to find a dentist who covers the essentials and offers additional treatments for complete care. By understanding the type of care a dentist can provide and how to find the right office, patients can enjoy better oral health.
Oral Care Needs a Dentist Can Address
Many dentists are qualified to handle a wide variety of issues. While some treatments may vary by location and practice, patients can typically expect assistance with these common oral care needs.
Routine cleanings and checkups
Every six months, people should visit a dentist for a routine cleaning and checkup. This is a standard service that most dental offices provide for patients. Some locations may offer more advanced technology to make the process easier or more thorough. These can include digitized X-rays, dental lasers, or computer-aided design technology.
Treatment for injury or decay
From a small cavity to a severe infection, dentists can help treat numerous dental problems. Some of the most common options offered by a dentist include:
- Fillings
- Inlays or onlays
- Dental veneers
- Crowns
- Bridges
- Root canals
- Implants
- Full or partial dentures
A professional can offer guidance as to which procedure is the right choice for repairing and protecting a patient’s teeth.
Cosmetic enhancements
Dentists focus not only on oral health but on tooth appearance as well. Many offices now provide cosmetic dental work to help create a more beautiful smile. Some patients may benefit from whitening treatments to transform dull or yellowed teeth. Other treatments, such as dental bonding or veneers, can help improve uneven smiles due to gaps or unevenly shaped teeth. Some locations may help patients reduce the appearance of a gummy smile for a more aesthetically pleasing result.
Alignment treatments
Misaligned teeth can be unsightly. However, this problem can also lead to serious issues in children and adults, including speech and digestive problems and jaw pain. In many situations, dentists can help straighten a patient’s teeth with the use of clear aligner trays. These appliances are easy to use, easy to clean, and completely removable. Many find that aligner trays are convenient, discreet, and more comfortable than traditional braces.
Finding the right dentist
Patients who want to find a dentist have a variety of options to assist with their search. Asking friends and neighbors for recommendations is a good place to start. Browsing an official office website can also offer excellent insight and information when searching for a new dentist. Finally, prospective patients should seek out third-party reviews to find unbiased opinions about the quality of patient care.
Once a person settles on a new location, it can be helpful to schedule a consultation before booking an appointment. This provides the opportunity to ask important questions about the treatment options available, the types of insurance accepted, and office policies.
Conclusion
Those who find a dentist who provides a wide variety of care options can often enjoy more convenience, the latest in technological advances, and improved overall care. Thorough research and detailed questions can lead patients to the right fit for their needs.
