Family dentists are well-liked because of their adaptability. Most dentistry practices house many family dentist Newport News, VA, providing the convenience of a “one-stop” solution for all your family’s oral health requirements. For example, you require an orthodontist, endodontist, or pediatric dentist. If so, you can identify family dentists that offer all three in one location.
Family dental clinics may help kids enjoy going to the dentist. Dental hygienists and dentists who are kind, understanding, and at ease treating children are best for them. Likewise, children will feel at ease and encouraged by dentists and dental hygienists who are kind and caring. Read on to know what treatments family dentists offer.
Fluoride Treatments
Fluoride treatments are crucial to the overall health of the teeth and gums. These treatments strengthen tooth enamel, which can help prevent cavities. Bacteria that live in the mouth feed on sugar and other substances and drink substances, which causes a breakdown of the teeth’s protective layer. Even 100 percent natural juices can damage the teeth’s enamel. Fluoride treatments strengthen the enamel and make it more resistant to acid attacks. As a result, fluoride treatments can help prevent cavities in the early stages and repair any damage that may have occurred to the teeth.
A fluoride treatment is a professional dental procedure performed by a family dentist. The fluoride is applied to the teeth in gel, foam, or varnish form. Fluoride treatments are usually painless and take only a few minutes to complete. Afterward, patients should refrain from eating for 30 minutes or more. However, it’s important to remember that fluoride treatments are not for everyone.
Dental X-rays
While most family dentists recommend getting an X-ray every few years, a few may recommend a more frequent x-ray at a higher frequency during certain treatments. The frequency will depend on your oral health condition, age, and other factors. In general, patients may only need an X-ray every four to six months unless they have extensive oral health issues. X-rays are painless, non-invasive, and take less than a minute. They can be done standing up or while sitting comfortably.
A dental x-ray is a type of x-ray that can help a dentist see parts of your mouth that are not visible during an oral examination. Getting an x-ray is essential to detect any possible issues early. You could need more expensive dental treatment if you don’t get an x-ray. The x-rays are usually used as a prelude to a cleaning, which is the next step in the treatment process. If your dentist discovers that you have gum disease, they may recommend a more advanced procedure called scaling and root planing.
Gum Disease Treatments
A family dentist is the best source for treatment for gum disease. Several factors contribute to the progression of this condition. Without treatment, it will worsen, leading to an advanced state of the disease known as periodontitis. Advanced periodontitis can result in bone loss, infection, and tooth loss. Early treatment of gum disease can prevent this from happening. To maintain optimal oral health, visit a dentist every six months for a checkup and cleaning.
Scaling and root planing are the most effective gum disease treatments. During a visit to the dentist, your dentist will remove deposits of calcium and tartar and smooth out the root of your teeth. During this procedure, your dentist will remove the diseased tissue from the teeth and restore it with biocompatible soft tissue. It is important to have this procedure performed at least twice a year, as the disease will continue to progress.
Root Canals
The process of removing decayed tooth roots is a common one, but it is a complicated procedure. A root canal treatment generally requires two appointments. The dentist will numb the tooth during the first visit with local anesthesia. During a root canal, a dentist will remove the tooth’s pulp and place a crown on it to protect it. Afterward, you can eat solid foods, although you should limit your consumption of hard foods.