Dentistry is an interesting and varied field that many people may not be familiar with. It is a branch of medicine that involves diagnosing, treating, and preventing diseases and conditions affecting teeth and gums. General dentistry is the most common type of dentistry, and it focuses on preventive care and general repairs.
A general dentist Duncan SC offers a wide range of services, from preventive care to more complex treatments, so it is essential to consult with them to determine which services are best suited for your needs.
How Can a General Dentist in Duncan, SC Help?
If you need a general dentist, it's essential to know when you need one and when you don't. A general dentist can provide various services, from teeth cleanings to dental procedures. If you have a regular dentist, they may be able to give some of these services, but if you need more than what your regular dentist can offer, then it's time to go to a general dentist. Here are some benefits a general dentist Duncan SC provides:
- Dental Bridge
A dental bridge is a prosthetic device used to replace missing teeth. It is usually composed of two or more crowns (the parts that go over the remaining teeth) and a pontic (the replacement tooth). The pontic is attached to the crowns with metal or ceramic braces. Dental bridges are custom-made to fit each patient's mouth.
A dental bridge may be recommended if you miss one or more teeth. It can restore your smile and help keep your teeth from shifting out of position. Dental bridges are also used to improve chewing and speaking ability and improve your face's appearance.
- Dental Cavity Fillings
Dental cavities are tiny holes in your teeth that can become infected and lead to pain, sensitivity, and other problems. To treat them, a general dentist Duncan SC typically "fills" the cavity with a material (usually either an amalgam or composite resin) that helps restore the tooth's structure and function. Cavity fillings are a general dental procedure and can be used to treat cavities of all sizes effectively. In most cases, they're also quite affordable. That being said, it's important to remember that cavities do require regular maintenance and care to stay filled; if you neglect your oral hygiene, the filling may eventually fall out or need to be replaced.
- Dental Crowns
A dental crown, also known as a cap, is a restoration that covers the entire chewing surface of a tooth. Crowns are typically used to restore teeth that have been damaged by decay, grinding, or trauma. They are also used to improve the appearance of teeth that are severely discolored or misshapen.
A crown is made in a laboratory from a mold of your tooth. The mold is taken after your tooth has been numbed and the dentist has removed any decay. Next, your tooth and the surrounding gum tissue make an impression. This impression is then sent to the lab, where your crown will be made.
While waiting for your crown, you will wear a temporary crown. The temporary crown is made of a material that is not as strong as the permanent crown. Once your permanent crown is ready, you will return to the dentist to have it placed.
- Dental Implant Restoration
Dental implant restoration is repairing and replacing teeth that have been lost or damaged. Teeth can be lost due to various reasons, including tooth decay, gum disease, or an injury. Damaged teeth may need to be repaired or replaced if cracked, broken, or chipped.
- Dentures
Dentures are prosthetic devices used to replace missing teeth. They are made of acrylic resin or metal and can be removable or fixed. Removable dentures are held in place by suction or clasps, while fixed dentures are attached to dental implants.
Missing teeth can cause several problems, such as difficulty chewing and speaking and an increased risk of decay and gum disease. Dentures restore the function and appearance of the smile and help maintain the shape of the face.
Other Services:
- Oral Cancer Exam
General dentists can help with Oral Cancer Exams in a few ways. The first is simply by performing the examination itself. Many general dentists are trained to look for early signs of cancerous and precancerous lesions during routine exams and so can play a role in detecting oral cancer at an early stage. Additionally, your dentist can help you learn more about risk factors for developing oral cancer and offer suggestions for reducing your risk. Finally, your dentist can provide you with referrals to specialist care if necessary.
- Periodontal Treatment
Periodontal disease is a severe condition that affects the gums and bones around the teeth. If it is not treated correctly, it can lead to tooth loss. General dentists are trained to recognize periodontal disease signs and provide the appropriate treatment.
- Sleep Apnea Treatment
Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder that causes a person to stop breathing for short periods during sleep. It can lead to daytime fatigue, headaches, and other problems. General dentists can help patients with sleep apnea by performing a dental exam and looking for signs of the disorder. If they find signs of sleep apnea, they may refer the patient to a specialist for treatment. Treatment options include using a CPAP machine or surgery.
- Regular Dental Checkup
General dentists perform regular dental checkups. A regular dental checkup typically includes a visual examination of the teeth and gums, an oral cancer screening, and a cleaning. Your dentist may also recommend additional tests or procedures depending on your individual oral health needs.
If you need general dentistry services, our Keels Family & Cosmetic Dentist team is here to help. Keels Family & Cosmetic Dentist is a general dentistry practice that provides comprehensive dental care for patients. Our dentist Duncan SC is experienced in providing preventive, restorative, and cosmetic dental services to help you achieve and maintain your best smile. If you’re looking for a dentist who can provide quality general dentistry services, schedule an appointment with us today!