Just like doctors, many dentists tend to specialize in certain areas of dentistry. Endodontists, for example, tend to focus their studies and practice on the inner pulp of a tooth and certain pains and sensitivities. A general dentist in Towson, MD, however, is more likely than not your first stop when something feels wrong in your mouth. Along with early diagnostics, your general dentist also provides preventative care. It’s common for many general dentists to also specialize in other dental areas, especially restorative and cosmetic, to provide more treatment for their patients.
What to Expect from a General Dentist in Towson, MD
When you go to the dentist for general treatment, you’re most often going to start with an exam and a consultation. In a few cases, you may be able to start treatment right away, but sometimes, you’ll need to schedule additional appointments. General dentists also provide preventative care through routine hygiene appointments, X-rays, and oral health exams. Even if you don’t feel a problem in your mouth, your dentist can often catch the early warning signs of damage or decay and recommend intervention treatment. So, it’s always a good idea to keep up with your regular checkups to help prevent serious dental conditions.
Hygiene Appointments
For most patients, a visit to the general dentist means getting a routine cleaning and exam. While some dentists perform the cleaning themselves, others work with professional dental hygienists. At this appointment, your dentist will often perform a visual inspection of your teeth and gums to ensure they are clean and healthy. Your dentist may also take X-rays of your teeth to check for any internal damage or issues with your jaw. Most insurance companies provide coverage for these preventative appointments, but it’s always a good idea to check if your dentist is in-network. Even if they aren’t, many insurance companies will still provide at least partial coverage.
Early Diagnosis
When something goes wrong in our mouth, it’s not always easy to tell what the problem is. In some cases, it can be as simple as having a piece of food stuck between your teeth. But in other instances, it could be a serious cause for concern. Because pain, sensitivity, and swelling can be caused by a variety of issues, an early diagnosis from your general dentist could be key in getting the right treatment you need. Although they may not specialize in all treatments, general dentists typically train in identifying and diagnosing most dental problems. After examining your mouth, your general dentist can usually provide you with a recommendation for a specialist for further diagnosis and treatment.
Having a general dentist on your side can often mean the difference between getting the quality care you need and developing worsening dental conditions. At Dental Excellence, we provide routine, preventative dental care along with high-quality cosmetic and restorative treatment. Call us today at (410) 514-6553 to schedule a consultation and get the care you need for your oral health.