Reasons You Might See a General Dentist vs. a Dental Specialist

General Dentist Brooklyn, NY

Wondering when you may make a general dentist office visit? There are many different types of dentists that people can choose from nowadays; their choice simply depends on their dental needs.

Reasons to see a general dentist

Considering seeing a general dentist in Brooklyn? According to WebMD, a general dentist diagnoses, treats and manages overall oral health care needs, which includes gum care, root canals, fillings, crowns, veneers, bridges, preventive education and treating diseases of the mouth. This makes general dentists dental professionals who are similar to medical doctors in that they both provide people with primary care services.

This is the type of dentist that everyone must make regular dental appointments with in order to ensure that their oral health is in good shape. Making regular dental appointments with a general dentist is not only necessary to ensure that there are no existing problems with one's oral health but also so patients can undergo regular dental cleanings. Regular dental cleanings are essential to remove any plaque buildup on one’s teeth that can cause gum disease.

While general dentists can typically perform most of the same dental procedures that dental specialists can, sometimes it is necessary for a general dentist to refer a patient to a dental specialist. This is often because the patient is in need of a more complex procedure or because the patient has health conditions that require them to receive extra dental care.

Reasons to see a dental specialist

Dental specialists are dental professionals who have decided to undergo additional education and training in order to specialize in a certain dental area. Examples of dental specialists include endodontists, periodontists, orthodontists and prosthodontists. A general dentist might refer one of their patients to see an endodontist, for example, because endodontists are specifically trained in performing root canal treatments, as well as other types of difficult root procedures.

Furthermore, general dentists will often refer their patients to a periodontist when they are in need of treatment for periodontal disease that is affecting a patient's bone, an orthodontist for dental patients experiencing bite problems and a prosthodontist for patients in need of in-depth tooth replacement services, like dental implants, dental crowns, dental bridges and dentures. The only time that general dentists will refer their patients to dental specialists is when the patient is in need of difficult and/or complex dental treatment.

Bottom line

Are you in need of a general dentist? If you have dental problems and are wondering what type of dentist you should visit, it is important to understand that making an appointment with the general dentist is the first step. If additional dental treatment is necessary due to a patient's more complex dental needs, then the general dentist will refer them to a dental specialist.

Request an appointment here: https://mgdental.com or call MG Dental at (718) 416-6444 for an appointment in our Brooklyn office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: General Dentist in Brooklyn, NY.

 

Recent Posts

Why General Dentists Suggest Patients Use A Toothpaste Containing Fluoride

Our general dentist recommends brushing with a toothpaste that contains fluoride to give your teeth the highest level of protection possible against tooth decay. Fluoride is a naturally occurring chemical that helps to re-mineralize and strengthen teeth enamel.Fluoride can be found in natural bodies of water, as well as many fruits and vegetables like grapes…

A General Dentist Discusses The Importance Of Dental Cleanings

Your general dentist can give you regular dental cleanings. This type of treatment can keep bad bacteria from causing significant dental damage. That is why keeping your dental appointments is crucial. Here are the details about how important dental cleanings are, according to your general dentist.Regular dental cleanings can remove surface discolorations or stains. A…

A Dentist Explains Why You Should Stop Chewing Ice

When you visit the dentist, you will probably get suggestions on which habits to adopt or avoid. Chewing ice is one of those habits we cultivate unintentionally. Everyone has perhaps crunched through an ice cube or two while downing their favorite cold beverage, but not everyone gets addicted to this practice. If you have an…

Oral Hygiene FAQ: What Is Dental Tartar?

Oral hygiene is important because dental tartar is not fun! Luckily, good health is! Why is a healthy mouth good for the body? Quite simply, oral hygiene prevents tooth decay, gum diseases and helps prevent bad breath. If our oral health is not taken care of we could lose our teeth, especially as we grow older.Tartar…

Recent Posts

Worker&#    ;s Compensation And Veneers For Workplace Dental Injuries

Worker's Compensation And Veneers For Workplace Dental Injuries

Veneers are a common type of dental restoration and can be used to cover up damaged teeth. Dental injuries, specifically, can occur from just about anything, but a common cause is in the workplace. While most may think of a back sprain or minor burn when it comes to workplace injuries, workplace dental injuries are…

Dental Bonding And Teeth Whitening

Dental Bonding And Teeth Whitening

Dental bonding and teeth whitening are common dental procedures that improve the appearance of your smile. However, some patients are concerned that their teeth may not have the same shade after teeth whitening, particularly if they have had dental bonding on one or more teeth. This review helps patients deal with this concern. Understanding the difference…

Now offering virtual consultations for emergency care!