Protect Your Smile With General Dentistry

General dentistry is more of a preventative practice. This field of dentistry deals with the health of your teeth, gums, and jaw. It encompasses a variety of procedures that focus on improving your oral as well as overall health.

These procedures include:

Fillings

Fillings, also called dental restorations, are used to treat teeth that are decayed, cracked, or broken. The procedure involves removing the decay and reshaping the tooth. After that, the filling material is used to restore the tooth.

There are different types of dental fillings, including amalgam, composite resin, and ceramic. Each type offers different benefits.

Root Canals

Root canals are a common procedure among general dentistry patients. When a tooth is infected, a root canal is necessary to remove the nerve and pulp chamber within the tooth. This prevents the infection from spreading to the rest of the mouth. This procedure is fairly basic and can often be done during one visit. After the tooth is cleaned and filled, a crown is placed over the tooth to help restore its strength and appearance.

Veneers

Porcelain veneers are one of the most common procedures offered by a general dentist. Veneers hide cosmetic imperfections such as cracks, chips, stains, gaps, misalignments, and crookedness.

The procedure for porcelain veneers usually requires two office visits, each taking about one and a half hours. During the first visit, the dentist will prepare the teeth by removing a minimal amount of enamel from the front surface. An impression is taken and sent to a dental lab, where a custom veneer is created. The dentist will place a temporary veneer on the tooth until the permanent one is ready.

During the second visit, the dentist will remove the temporary veneer and place the custom porcelain veneer. The dentist will bond the veneer in place, and the patient will be able to leave with a beautiful new smile.

Crowns (Caps)

A dental crown can repair a tooth with extensive decay, cracks, or fractures. It is used to restore the shape, size, and strength of the tooth. It can also be used to cover teeth that are misshapen or discolored.

Dental crowns are made from a variety of different materials. They can protect the teeth from further damage.

Dental Implants

Dental implants are a permanent solution for missing teeth. They consist of a titanium post that is surgically implanted into the jawbone. The biocompatible post integrates with the jawbone, creating a foundation for a crown, bridge, or denture.

Dental implants are a highly predictable restorative treatment. Because implants integrate with the bone, they provide the same stable foundation as natural teeth. This improved stability means that patients can eat their favorite foods, speak clearly, and smile with confidence.

Dentures

Full Dentures

Full dentures are when all of your teeth are missing. They are removable and are held in place by suction or an adhesive. Full dentures require special care.

Partial Dentures

Partial dentures are when some teeth are missing. They are removable and are held in place by suction or an adhesive. Partial dentures require special care.

Gum Disease Treatment

Gum disease treatments range from professional dental cleaning to dental implants. If tooth decay or gum disease goes untreated, it can lead to more serious conditions, including heart disease.

Scaling and root planing is one of the most common forms of treatment for gum disease. Scaling and root planing involves removing plaque and tartar from beneath the gum line and then smoothing the roots. This treatment can be performed by a dental hygienist or your dentist.

Visit Bishop Family Dental at 2120 E 3900 S #102, Salt Lake City, UT 84124, to consult with our dentist. Contact us at (801) 274-2500 or schedule an appointment online to visit us during our business hours.