General dentistry and what it includes
General dentistry encompasses a range of different treatments; all Essex dentists are qualified to perform general dental treatments.
General dental treatments are very common; almost all people will undergo a general dental procedure at least once in their lifetime. Common examples of general dental treatments include routine check-ups, restorations, tooth extraction, X-rays and scaling and polishing.
Essex dentists recommend that patients attend a check-up at least once a year for a routine dental job on your teeth; this helps dentists to identify any warning signs of developing conditions including decay or gum disease and then the condition can be treated early before it gets any worse. Dentists can also offer patients advice on which toothbrush, toothpaste and mouthwash to use, as well as discussing other treatments, such as orthodontic or cosmetic treatments, with patients.
Attending regular check-ups helps to prevent gum disease and tooth decay, which can cause severe damage to the teeth and surrounding bone and gum tissue; eventually the decay may become so widespread that the teeth cannot be saved and the dentist may have little choice but to carry out a tooth extraction.
General dentistry requires a minimum of 5 years of academic study and practical work experience which most people complete by means of an undergraduate degree; following this, dentists can choose to pursue further study and professional experience in a speciality or continue to work in general dentistry.