When you are looking for a primary care provider for your family’s oral health, you are looking for a general dentist. General dentistry is the hub of the dental world. A general dentist is a highly trained professional who is your first point of contact for all of your dental needs, from routine checkups and cleanings to fillings, crowns, and a wide variety of other restorative and cosmetic procedures. They are the quarterbacks of your dental care, responsible for diagnosing issues, providing a broad range of treatments, and coordinating with specialists when necessary to ensure you receive the best possible care throughout every stage of your life.
The Wide Scope of General Dentistry
A general dentist is licensed to diagnose and treat a vast array of oral health conditions. Unlike a specialist who focuses on one specific area of dentistry (like an orthodontist for braces or a periodontist for gum disease), a general dentist provides a comprehensive suite of services for the whole family. The core of general dentistry is rooted in prevention.
- Preventive Care: This is the foundation of the practice. It includes performing regular comprehensive exams, professional teeth cleanings, taking diagnostic X-rays, and providing patient education on proper home care.
- Restorative Dentistry: When a tooth is damaged by decay or an injury, a general dentist has the skills to restore it. This is the largest part of most general practices and includes procedures like:
- Placing dental fillings to repair cavities.
- Treating infected teeth with root canal therapy.
- Placing dental crowns to protect and strengthen damaged teeth.
- Replacing missing teeth with dental bridges, partial dentures, or dental implants.
The Role as a Primary Care Provider
Think of your general dentist in the same way you think of your primary care physician. They are responsible for managing your overall oral health.
- Diagnosis: They are experts at diagnosing a wide range of problems, from a simple cavity to the early signs of oral cancer or gum disease.
- Treatment Planning: Based on their diagnosis, they will create a customized, long-term treatment plan that is tailored to your specific needs and goals.
- Coordination with Specialists: If you have a particularly complex issue that requires the attention of a specialist—for example, if you need complex oral surgery or advanced periodontal treatment—your general dentist will refer you to a trusted local specialist and will coordinate your care with them, ensuring a seamless treatment experience.
As the American Dental Association (ADA) explains, general dentists are the main providers of dental care to people of all ages. Building a long-term relationship with a general dentist you trust is one of the most important things you can do for your family’s health.
Beyond Health: Cosmetic Services
In addition to maintaining your oral health, most modern general dentists also offer a wide range of cosmetic services to help you achieve the beautiful smile you’ve always wanted. This can include professional teeth whitening, dental veneers, and cosmetic bonding. This allows you to receive both your essential healthcare and your desired aesthetic enhancements from the same trusted team.
Your Redlands Partner for General Dentistry
Having a dedicated, compassionate, and highly skilled general dentist is the key to maintaining a healthy and beautiful smile for a lifetime. For individuals and families in the Redlands, CA area, Dr. Michelle Wang provides comprehensive and patient-focused care. We are your home for all general dentistry needs. We invite you to schedule a new patient exam at Michelle Wang DDS. Contact us today to make an appointment.