Good oral health is too often overlooked as an important component of overall health and well-being. General Dentistry in New Baltimore MI not only helps you achieve a bright, beautiful smile, it also helps prevent and diagnose more serious health concerns, such as oral cancer, stroke and heart disease. Here are some ways that a visit to your general dentist can help keep you healthy:
Cleaning: Even if you’re diligent about brushing and flossing, hard deposits of plaque can form on your teeth. A dentist or dental hygienist has the proper tools to clean hard to reach areas. A biannual cleaning will remove these deposits as well as any accumulated food particles, reducing your risk of cavities, gingivitis and periodontal disease.
Check-ups: Check-ups go hand in hand with your biannual cleaning. Your dentist will examine your teeth and the surrounding soft tissue for early signs of tooth decay or other periodontal problems. Catching these problems early can mean far less invasive treatments. General Dentistry in New Baltimore MI can also catch lesions or other indicators of more serious health problems, such as oral cancer.
Fillings and Crowns: Fillings are typically used to treat teeth with minor cavities; the decayed portion of the tooth is removed and filled with dental amalgam or a tooth-colored composite material. If a tooth is severely damaged, a dental crown can be more beneficial. A crown is a cap that fits over the entire tooth; it prevents further damage, restores the look of the tooth and allows the patient to chew comfortably.
Root Canals: A root canal is performed when the nerve in a tooth becomes infected or the pulp becomes damaged. The nerve and the pulp are removed, the inside of the tooth is cleaned and the entire tooth is sealed. Despite its reputation, many patients report that a root canal causes no more pain or discomfort than a typical filling.
Sedation Dentistry: For those who let fear get in the way of proper General Dentistry in New Baltimore MI, sedation dentistry is a good option. Sedation can increase relaxation and comfort, as well as control the gag reflex. It has the added time-saving benefit of being able to accomplish more work with fewer visits.
General Dentistry in New Baltimore MI helps you achieve the confidence that comes with a healthy smile. It’s also an important part of a whole-health regimen. Take care of yourself and your smile with regular visits to a trusted general dentist. For more information visit DiPilla Robert, DDS.
