What is Family Dentistry?

Family dentistry is a term that is used to describe dental care services provided to individuals and families. However, family dentists are also called general dentists because they provide services to people of all ages. They provide preventive care, cleanings, fillings, and extractions. However, family dentists tend to focus on the health and well-being of children and adults.

What does Family Dentistry Do?

Family dentistry is the practice of providing dental care services to individuals and their families. It is also a term that is used to describe dental care services that are provided to individuals and their families. However, family dentists are also called general dentists because they provide services to people of all ages. They provide preventive care, cleanings, fillings, and extractions. However, family dentists tend to focus on the health and well-being of children and adults.

Who Benefits From Family Dentistry?

The most common age groups that undergo dental procedures are between 31 to 40 years old (38 percent) and 41 to 50 years old (32 percent). Ninety-six percent of family dentistry patients are also female.

Why Choose Family Dentistry?

The primary goal of family dentistry is to prevent dental disease and promote oral health. To do this, family dentists perform preventative dental care, including cleanings and sealants. They also provide cosmetic procedures, such as tooth whitening and veneers, to improve the appearance of teeth.

When compared to a pediatric dentist, family dentists have a slightly higher rate of patient satisfaction.

Types of Treatments Provided by Family Dentistry

Family dentistry can include a wide range of dental treatments. For example, family dentists can perform preventative treatments to help keep your teeth and gums healthy.

This includes regular cleanings, sealant treatments, and fluoride treatments. Family dentists can also perform cosmetic treatments to improve the appearance of your smile.

Children and Teens

Although, family dentists often treat children and teenagers, they may also be recommended by their pediatric dentist.

Preventive Treatments

Family dentists also perform a variety of preventive treatments. These include:

Tooth Extractions

Extractions are a common treatment performed by family dentists. This is because they are the most effective way to treat decayed or broken teeth.

Dental Checkups

Regular dental checkups are a key component of preventive dentistry. You should schedule dental checkups every six months for children and teenagers and annually for adults.

Dental Cleanings

Cleanings are a part of preventive dentistry, and they are an essential part of maintaining dental health. The goal of a cleaning is to remove plaque, which is the biofilm that builds up on the teeth.

Dental Sealants

Sealants are a form of dental treatment that helps to protect newly erupted baby teeth. This form of treatment is usually recommended for children who are between the ages of two and eight.

Dental Fillings

Dental fillings are a common type of dental treatment. They are usually placed in the areas of a tooth that are damaged or decayed.

Dental X-Rays

X-rays are a form of diagnostic imaging, and they are an essential part of preventive dentistry. An x-ray is used to view the inside of the teeth and jaws.

Root Canal Treatment

Root canal treatment is a type of dental treatment that involves removing the pulp from a tooth that has been infected.

Dental Bridges

Dental bridges are used to replace missing teeth. They are usually made of porcelain or metal and are bonded to the adjacent teeth.

Dental Crowns

Dental crowns are used to cover a tooth that has been damaged or decayed. They can also be used to help repair a tooth after a root canal procedure.

Dental Implants

Dental implants are small titanium posts that are surgically placed into a patient’s jawbone. They are then used as the foundation for a replacement tooth.

What Are the Common Dental Problems?

There are several common dental problems, including:

Tooth Decay

Tooth decay is a dental problem that affects millions of Americans. It is the most common dental problem among children and teens, but adults also have a high rate of decay. Tooth decay starts when food particles get trapped between the teeth and a tooth surface. These food particles then produce acid, which begins to dissolve the enamel. If left untreated, this process will eventually destroy the enamel and cause cavities.

Gum Disease

Gum disease is a common condition that affects nearly half of the U.S. population. It is also known as periodontal disease

Questions to Ask Your Family Dentist

How long have they been practicing?

Since cosmetic dentistry is a relatively new field, most family dentists have little to no experience in cosmetic procedures. However, there are a few family dentists who have undergone training in cosmetic procedures.

How will you determine my treatment plan?

Family dentists are trained to create a treatment plan that suits each individual’s unique needs. This means that each family dentist will take a look at your medical history and current dental problems to develop a personalized treatment plan.