General Dentistry: What Services Are Available?

Core Dentistry • April 11, 2022

Did you know that over 25 percent of adults between the ages of 20 and 44 have untreated dental caries (or cavities)? Many of these could have been prevented with regular visits to the dentist's office.

That's right, general dentistry can help you prevent tooth decay!

But what is general dentistry, and what do general dentists do? We're here to talk all about it so you can make an informed decision about your oral health. Read on to learn more.

What Is Preventative General Dentistry?

Preventative care makes up the bulk of general dentistry services. While general dentists also provide restorative dentistry services, they primarily focus on preventative dentistry to best serve their patients.

Preventative dentistry is anything that a dentist can do to protect a patient's teeth and gums. The idea is to avoid potential future procedures (such as root canals and fillings) through check-ups and other basic services.

Regular Check-Ups and Exams

All general dentists encourage and perform regular dental check-ups and exams for their patients. Most patients are advised to visit their dentist for dental exams at least twice per year, though this may vary depending on the condition of their teeth and gums.

During regular check-ups, a dentist will examine the patient's mouth and ask about any potential oral health concerns that the patient may have. They may ask about things like:

Pain
Temperature sensitivity
Discoloration
Cracks and chips
Loose teeth
Bleeding gums

If a patient does have a specific concern, the dentist will address them. They may offer advice for at-home care or recommend treatment. General dentists can also diagnose common dental problems (such as gum disease or cavities) during the exam.

Professional Cleaning and Hygiene Help

Professional cleaning is a crucial part of general dentistry! While everyone should be brushing their teeth at least twice per day (and flossing at least once), there's no substitute for an occasional professional cleaning session.

During a professional cleaning, the dentist or hygienist will use specialized tools to remove plaque and tartar that are difficult (if not impossible) to remove with a toothbrush and floss. They will finish the session with a fluoride paste to help protect the patient's teeth.

Before the cleaning takes place, the dentist or hygienist may measure the patient's gums to see if there are any signs of gum disease or inflammation as a result of poor cleaning habits.

During these sessions, hygienists or dentists will also talk to the patient about their own hygiene habits and give them advice. They may prescribe special toothpaste for the patient to use at home.

Pediatric Dental Care

Most general dentists are capable of pediatric dental care as well. Pediatric dentistry is dentistry for children.

Children have unique dental needs. You should start bringing your child to the dentist by the time their first tooth fully comes through their gums. This will set them up for a future of good oral health and hygiene.

When you visit a general dentist for pediatric dental care, your child can continue seeing the same dentist through adulthood. This may make them feel more comfortable and less likely to experience dental anxiety in the future.

A good dentist who has experience with young patients will be able to explain complex dental topics in simple ways. They'll have a great bedside manner to keep the patient as comfortable as possible during the appointment.

Cancer Screenings

Did you know that a general dentist can screen you for oral cancer?

If you're a patient who has multiple risk factors for oral cancer, it's even more important for you to visit your general dentist at least twice per year. Oral cancer can be difficult to spot in its early stages.

Dentists are unable to treat oral cancer, but they can catch it and refer you to medical professionals for help.

Without early detection and treatment, oral cancer can be life-threatening. If you catch it right away, it's very treatable and you can make a full recovery.

Snoring and Sleep Apnea

Do you wake up in the morning with a dry mouth and an itchy throat? Do other people in your household complain about your loud snoring? A dentist can help with that too!

Loud snoring can be the result of several conditions, but most notably, sleep apnea. Sleep apnea is when you stop breathing every so often throughout the night.

Not only can it lead to snoring, but it can also lead to other more serious health problems when left untreated. Talk to your general dentist about sleep apnea so you can start getting treatment.

Referrals for Restorative or Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures

When a general dentist finds a problem, they can offer you suggestions for how to fix it. General dentists often also do restorative dentistry, and some of them even offer cosmetic procedures for their patients.

If a dentist notices that you have significant tooth decay, they'll talk to you about the possibility of getting a filling or a root canal. They can schedule the procedure for you, talk to you about preparation, and give you an aftercare guide.

If you decide that you want cosmetic procedures, such as teeth whitening or implants, they can help with that as well. They can offer you recommendations based on your dental health needs.

Is It Time to Visit Your General Dentist in Fort Mill, SC?

General dentists are essential when it comes to taking care of your oral health. Visit your dentist twice per year for your general dentistry needs and your teeth and gums will stay healthy and clean.

If you're ready to visit a general dentist in Fort Mill, SC, we want to meet you! Contact us at Core Dentistry to set up an appointment today.

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How Teeth Whitening Can Brighten Your Smile for Special Occasions

By Core Dentistry • February 26, 2025

It's an unfortunate fact that all kinds of factors can lead to unsightly yellow teeth . Are you wondering what can be done to quickly upgrade your smile? Teeth whitening services can be the perfect solution. Whether it's for a wedding, graduation, or an important work event, a bright smile can leave a great impression. With the right teeth whitening solutions, you can achieve a stunning smile makeover just in time for your special occasion. Read on to learn more about it. The Vital Importance of a Bright Smile A whiter smile can make a vast difference in how people perceive you. White teeth are often associated with the following: Good health Confidence Success When you feel good about your smile, you naturally exude more self-confidence. This can help in social settings, professional environments, and even during photographs that capture your special moments. Cosmetic dental services , such as dental whitening treatments, can give you the smile you have always wanted. A white smile is more than just a surface-level improvement; it can also have great psychological benefits. Many people feel more outgoing and sociable when they aren't self-conscious about their teeth. Smiling more often can: Improve mood Reduce stress Make you appear more approachable A great smile can positively impact personal relationships , career opportunities, and first impressions, making it a valuable asset in various aspects of life. How Teeth Whitening Works Teeth whitening is a simple yet amazing way to get rid of stains and discoloration. Over time, certain foods, drinks, and habits can cause teeth to lose their brightness. Common culprits include: Coffee Tea Red wine Tobacco use Teeth whitening solutions help to lift these stains, leaving your teeth several shades whiter. While over-the-counter products may provide some improvement, they often take weeks to show any effect. Professional dental whitening treatments, like those offered at Core Dentistry , use stronger whitening agents that deliver faster and longer-lasting results. There are several kinds of teeth whitening treatments to choose from, including: In-office whitening Take-home whitening kits Over-the-counter products In-office treatments are done by dental experts and often provide the most dramatic results in the shortest amount of time. Take-home kits, on the other hand, involve using custom-made trays and professional-grade whitening gel, allowing patients to whiten their teeth at their own pace. Over-the-counter products like whitening toothpaste, strips, and gels can offer mild improvements but are generally not as effective as professional treatments. Undeniable Benefits of Professional Teeth Whitening One of the most phenomenal benefits of professional teeth whitening is the speed of results. In-office whitening treatments can make your teeth several shades lighter in just one visit. Another advantage is the long-lasting effects. Professional whitening lasts much longer compared to at-home kits, especially when you maintain good oral hygiene. Safety is another major benefit, as a trained dentist ensures that your gums and teeth are protected during the procedure. Plus, professional whitening allows for a customized treatment plan . Your dentist can fine-tune the strength of the whitening agent to suit your needs. Remember, a whiter smile can elevate your confidence like nothing else. It makes you feel more attractive and self-assured in social and professional settings. Beyond aesthetics, professional whitening can also encourage better oral hygiene. When people invest in their smiles, they tend to take better care of their teeth by brushing, flossing, and attending regular dental check-ups. This can lead to improved overarching dental health, reducing the risk of: Cavities Gum disease Other oral issues Additionally, professional whitening can remove stubborn stains that regular brushing and over-the-counter products may not be able to tackle. When to Whiten Your Teeth Before a Special Occasion Timing is important when planning your smile makeover. If you have an upcoming event, it is best to schedule your teeth whitening treatment at least one to two weeks in advance. This allows any minor sensitivity to subside and ensures you get the best results. If you opt for at-home whitening, you need to give yourself more time as it takes longer to see noticeable changes. Planning ahead ensures your smile looks its best for your special day. It is also important to consider any dental work you may need before whitening your teeth. Do you have cavities, gum disease, or other oral health issues? If so, these should be addressed before undergoing a whitening treatment. Your dentist can help assess your teeth and provide the best course of action to ensure that you achieve optimal results. Also, if you have dental restorations like crowns or fillings, it's important to note that these materials respond differently to the treatment. Maintaining Your White Smile for the Long Haul After your teeth whitening treatment, you have to take care of your teeth if you want them to retain their brightness. Avoiding foods and drinks like coffee, tea, red wine, and dark-colored sauces can help preserve your results. Maintain good oral hygiene, including brushing twice a day, flossing, and using a dependable toothpaste . Consistent dental check-ups and cleanings also help support your white smile. Using a straw when drinking dark beverages can reduce contact with your teeth, thereby shrinking the chances of staining. Another tip for maintaining your white smile is to rinse your mouth with water after consuming staining foods or beverages. This helps prevent pigments from settling into the enamel. You may also consider using a whitening mouthwash to enhance your results. If you notice that your teeth are beginning to stain again over time, touch-up treatments may be recommended by your dentist to keep your smile bright. Keeping up with professional cleanings and avoiding habits like smoking can also contribute to long-lasting results. It's Time to Take Advantage of Dependable Teeth Whitening Services With proper teeth whitening services , you can have an amazing smile in no time. Core Dentistry provides high-quality cosmetic dental services to help you get the smile you've always wanted. Their dental whitening treatments are safe, effective, and customized. Our team members not only have medical degrees, but they're also members of the Academy of General Dentistry, the American Academy of Clear Aligners, and more. Don't wait to schedule a teeth whitening appointment with Core Dentistry today.