Our Services / General Dentistry

What is general dentistry?

General dentists prevent, diagnose, and treat oral health concerns like tooth decay and gum disease. Your general dentist is your primary dental provider. Whether you’re due for a teeth cleaning, experience sudden tooth pain, or have a missing tooth, your general dentist is the first provider you see for a diagnosis and treatment.

What is included in general dentistry?

Some of the most common general dentistry services at Thrive Dental include:

Dental exam

A dental exam is a preventive assessment of your overall oral health. During the exam, your dentist evaluates your bite, checks your teeth for signs of erosion and decay, and examines your soft tissues to identify any abnormal growths. They may also take X-rays to evaluate your bite and tooth development.

Teeth cleaning

After a dental exam, your dentist typically performs a teeth cleaning to remove plaque and tartar (hardened plaque). While regular brushing and flossing can help reduce plaque buildup, only a professional teeth cleaning can effectively remove tartar.

Restorations

A general dentist often places dental crowns, bridges, and dentures to restore and replace damaged or missing teeth. If you experience damage to your teeth, such as erosion or a crack, restorative dentistry can improve their function and appearance.

Orthodontics

The general dentists at Thrive Dental offer orthodontic treatments, such as Invisalign® clear aligners to straighten crooked teeth and correct malocclusions.

Root canal

A root canal is a restorative treatment that removes the damaged pulp, a type of soft tissue, from the center of your tooth. Once your dentist removes the pulp, they replace it with a biocompatible material to maintain its strength and function.

How often should I see a general dentist?

Thrive Dental recommends visiting at least twice a year, or once every six months, for a dental exam and teeth cleaning. Regular visits help prevent plaque buildup and potentially harmful oral health conditions, such as:

• Tooth decay
• Periodontal disease (gum disease)
• Tooth erosion
• Malocclusion
• Dental emergencies

You should also see your general dentist at Thrive Dental if you experience any dental concerns, such as tooth pain, bleeding gums, or loose teeth.

To learn more about general dentistry, call Thrive Dental or schedule an appointment online today.