General dentistry services in Oshkosh

Why Is Going to the Dentist Important?

Staying on track with routine dental cleanings and exams is the best way to prevent tooth decay and gum disease. Skipping cleanings can allow out-of-control tartar to cause cavities, tooth decay, gum erosion, and periodontitis (gum disease). While these problems are often easy to correct when caught early, leaving them unchecked can result in the need for implants, dental appliances, or extensive procedures.

What Services Do General Dentists Provide?

Everyone should have a positive relationship with their dentist! In the field of dentistry, a general dentist is the first line of defense against tooth decay. In addition to performing cleanings, polishings, and general examinations, dentists can also handle a variety of dental procedures for filling cavities, strengthening teeth, whitening teeth, and repairing teeth. They also treat tooth pain and sensitivity. If an oral issue requires a procedure that isn't offered in a general density office, a dentist can provide a fast referral to the right specialist. A general dentist is also the "point person" if you have a dental emergency. Contact us today to become a patient at our practice!

How Often Should You Book Dental Appointments?

While the American Dental Association (ADA) doesn't actually outline how often people should visit a dentist, most experts agree that getting a cleaning and examination every six months is the best way to maintain good oral health. If you have specific concerns regarding decay that needs to be closely monitored, it may be wise to schedule visits more frequently to confirm that nothing is overlooked.

How Much Does a Dental Visit Cost?

Costs for dental visits vary by patient and procedure. Routine cleanings and examinations are often fully covered by dental insurance plans. Many dental procedures are at least partially covered by insurance. Our staff will be happy to help you determine what you can expect to pay for your initial visit when you contact us.

How Do Dentists Get Teeth So Clean?

While at-home oral care is essential for maintaining a clean, healthy smile, dental cleanings go above and beyond what's possible at home. During a dental appointment, an examination of your mouth will be performed to look for signs of gingivitis, inflammation, infections, oral cancer, or other potential concerns. The hygienist uses a scaling tool in conjunction with a small mirror to gently scrape tartar and plaque from the gumline and teeth. Once your teeth and gums have been freed from tartar buildup, the hygienist uses a high-powered tool to clean the teeth with a gritty, professional-grade toothpaste for a polishing effect. Finally, the hygienist will floss the teeth to remove any toothpaste residue.

Most basic dental appointments also include an examination from the dentist (DMD/DDS) that is followed up with a brief chat to discuss any causes of concern in your mouth. You may also be advised to have imaging done to detect cavities, abscesses, or other signs of trouble at the start of your appointment. If everything looks good, the only thing you'll need to do is schedule your next cleaning!

How Long Does a Dentist Appointment Last?

The average dental cleaning can take between 30 and 45 minutes. Our staff will never make you feel rushed if you'd like to discuss specific oral or cosmetic concerns. If there's a need to follow up with dental work, a secondary appointment can be made for another date.

How Do I Prepare for a Dental Appointment?

There's no need to do anything special to prepare for a dental appointment. Arriving on time for your appointment helps to ensure that you will be seen as promptly as possible. If you have dental insurance, bring your card with you to your first appointment. It can also be helpful to bring a list of current medications or medical conditions to add to your medical history form. This information helps the dental staff to provide you with the best care. Our friendly team at our dentists’ general practice wants to make you feel as comfortable as possible! If you have any anxiety surrounding dental visits, let us know how we can accommodate your needs ahead of time.

What to Expect From General Dentistry Services

Many people are surprised to discover just how many services a general dentistry practice can perform. It's definitely comforting to visit the same office you're already familiar with when it's time for cosmetic and corrective dental procedures. Our office can provide the following general dentistry services for you:

• Tooth Repair and Replacement: Dentists can provide a wide variety of restorative procedures for improving the appearance and performance of teeth following cavities, chipping, or decay.
• Crowns: A crown is a natural-looking dental cap that covers either a tooth or dental implant. Crowns can be used to protect weak teeth, restore broken/damaged teeth, secure a dental bridge, or cover a misshapen tooth.
• Porcelain Crowns: These custom-made caps are bonded to damaged teeth to restore original appearance, size, and function.
• Dental Bonding: Using composite resin, a dental bonding procedure allows a dentist to repair cracked, chipped, and broken teeth. Bonding can also be used to fill in tooth gaps, lengthen a short tooth, or conceal severe discoloration.
• Dental Bridges: Bridges help to restore a cohesive smile and bite by joining an artificial tooth with neighboring natural teeth.
• Fillings: A dental filling is used to fill in the hole left after a dentist has removed decayed tooth tissue from a cavity. A filled tooth will enjoy its natural shape and function with a low likelihood of further damage.
• Composite Fillings: Generally used for visible teeth, composite fillings are tooth-colored fillings that can match existing teeth.
• Porcelain Fillings: When a larger cavity needs to be filled, porcelain can be a good option because it can be molded and shaped to essentially mimic the real tooth.
• Laser Dentistry: An alternative to invasive procedures, laser dentistry can be used to treat cavities, tooth decay, gum disease, discoloration, and other issues with minimal discomfort.
• Nitrous Oxide: Also known as laughing gas, nitrous oxide (N2O) is a mild sedative that can be used to help patients manage pain and anxiety during dental visits. It works by slowing down the nervous system to help patients feel relaxed without being put to sleep.
• Sealants: Dental sealants are unobtrusive coatings that are applied over the chewing surfaces of the back teeth to prevent cavities. The back teeth are highly vulnerable to decay and cavities.

Are you wondering, “Where is the best general dentist near me?” If so, then contact our office today! Getting on track with cleanings, examinations, dental repairs, and dental restoration is easier than you think.