Sedation Dentistry
Nitrous oxide and IV conscious sedation so anxious patients can get the care they have been putting off.
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General Dentistry in Herrin, IL
Everyday care done thoroughly — fillings, crowns, root canals, extractions and comfortable sedation options.
Teeth are strong, durable structures that endure massive amounts of pressure each day. It is important to protect the teeth and keep them strong through daily brushing and flossing as well as regular professional care from a licensed and experienced general dentist.
General dentistry involves the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of a wide range of dental conditions, as well as the maintenance of overall oral health for patients of all ages.This comprehensive care from a general dentist is usually the only source of care patients require for their dental needs. There are several different dental specialties, but general dentistry encompasses the basics of these specialties.
General Dentistry Specialties
Restorative Dentistry
Many dental conditions damage the tooth causing aesthetic and functional changes that require special treatment. Restorative treatments can repair or replace teeth depending on the extent of their damage. Restorative procedures include:
Cosmetic Dentistry
Many people seek cosmetic dental care after certain dental conditions or because of dissatisfaction with the appearance of their teeth. These procedures can improve the color, shape and size of the teeth and enhance the overall smile. Cosmetic dental treatments often improve self-confidence. Some of the most popular cosmetic dental treatments may include:
- Teeth whitening
- Porcelain veneers
- Bonding
- Full mouth reconstruction
Gum Disease Treatment
Periodontal disease, or gum disease, is a common dental condition that plagues many patients. Gum disease can be managed through treatments such as scaling and root planing, which can be performed by a general dentist. Surgery and other advanced treatments may be performed for later stages of the disease.
While there are specialists for many of these dental treatments, a general dentist is able to perform most of these procedures. Complicated issues may be referred to a specialist such as a periodontist or prosthodontist, while age-specific patients may benefit from seeing a pediatric or geriatric dentist.
Regular visits to the dentist are recommended at least once every six months in order to maintain proper oral hygiene and screen for any potential problems. Receiving regular checkups can help improve dental health and prevent major problems from developing. It is important for patients to work with their dentist to maintain their oral health. General dentists care for most patients' dental needs regardless of their age or treatment. These dental treatments restore health and beauty to the smile.
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General Dentistry
Treatments within General Dentistry
Root Canal
Treatment that removes infection from inside the tooth and relieves pain while saving the natural tooth.
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Gentle removal of damaged or unsalvageable teeth, with same-day implant placement where suitable.
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Tooth-coloured fillings that repair decay and blend invisibly with the surrounding enamel.
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Custom-made restorations for damage too large for a filling but not extensive enough for a crown.
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Diagnosis and treatment for teeth grinding and clenching before it wears down your teeth or strains your jaw.
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Custom-fitted guards that protect your teeth during sport and overnight grinding.
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Good to know
Frequently Asked Questions
General dentistry involves the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of a wide range of dental conditions, and the maintenance of overall oral health for patients of all ages. It encompasses the basics of the dental specialties, so for most patients it is the only source of care they need.
A comprehensive dental exam and cleaning is recommended once every six months. These visits catch <a href="/services/preventive-dentistry/cavities/">tooth decay</a> and the early signs of <a href="/services/periodontics/gum-disease/">gum disease</a> or oral cancer before they cause symptoms.
Quality care begins with a comprehensive examination and diagnosis. The doctor gets to know you as a person first, then examines the structures of the mouth — muscles, jaw joint, gums, bone, soft tissues and teeth — before reviewing the findings and recommendations with you personally.
Restorative treatments repair or replace teeth depending on how far they are damaged, and include fillings, crowns and bridges, <a href="/services/dental-implants/">dental implants</a>, bonding, dentures and <a href="/services/general-dentistry/root-canal/">root canals</a>.
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