For many people, a family dentist is the right choice for routine dental care. While this type of practice is usually equipped to handle the specific needs of pediatric patients, it is still able to provide thorough care for adults as well. Family dentists typically offer a wide variety of services in one location and can be a practical choice for many individuals and families.
What services does a family dentist offer?
Just like a general dentist, a family dentist can perform routine examinations and cleanings as well as common dental treatments for decay, injury, and gum disease.
Routine procedures
When visiting a family dentist, patients of all ages can expect the standard procedures for six-month cleanings and checkups. These often include X-rays, scaling, polishing, physical exams, and fluoride treatments. Dental care teams should also take gum measurements to check for signs of gradual recession.
Repairing damaged teeth
Cavities are a problem for most dental patients. According to the Centers for Disease Control, approximately 91% of Americans will have some form of tooth decay by the time they reach their mid-60s. A chip or crack in a tooth is also relatively common. A family dentist is prepared to treat most patients with these issues, from mild to more intense cases. Sealants, fillings, crowns and root canals may be performed to treat and repair teeth affected by decay or injury.
Cosmetic enhancements
If a patient is looking for options to enhance or improve their smile, some family dentists may offer cosmetic services, as well. These can include:
- Professional tooth whitening
- Veneers
- Dental bonding
- Inlays and onlays
These options are typically used to give people a whiter smile with more evenly sized or shaped teeth, resulting in a more natural and appealing look.
Other specific treatments
Many family dentist offices are home to multiple professionals. As a result, patients can receive treatment for a variety of specific dental issues in one location. Offices may have a professional on-site who focuses on pediatric care, gum disease, tooth alignment, or denture care.
Why choose a family dentist?
Those with children may wish to work with a family dentist to avoid the hassle of changing providers down the road. This allows dentists to build a good rapport with patients over time while giving parents the added benefit of bringing all family members to one location. Even those without children can enjoy the convenience of a more complete care facility when choosing this option. Because family dentists have the same training and credentials as a general dentist, these professionals are more than equipped to work with patients of all ages, not just young children.
Conclusion
Working with a family dentist is an appropriate choice for families with kids. However, adult patients can also receive complete preventative care and treatment for most common dental issues. As a result, this type of practice is suitable for a variety of patients, regardless of age or background.
Request an appointment or call Smiles On Michigan at 312-509-9492 for an appointment in our Chicago office.
Recent Posts
One of the main reasons people typically visit a family dentist is to get a cavity check. The American Dental Association states that 91% of adults in America over the age of 20 have had at least one cavity. Generally included in each six-month wellness examination, a cavity check can help both identify areas where…
According to a survey by the American Dental Association, 85% of Americans understand that there is a strong correlation between oral health and total health, and a family dentist helps patients make this connection. Dental diseases and poor oral hygiene can lead to a number of other issues, so patients should prioritize preventive and early…
A family dentist is an excellent choice for many people. This professional is trained to diagnose and treat common dental conditions in patients of all ages so that an entire family can visit the same dentist. That makes it easy for busy households to schedule routine care and preventative treatments. Patients should always work with…