Family Dentist Vs. General Dentist

When looking for a new dentist, you may find some practices labeled as family dentistry, while others are called general dentistry. While some people use these terms interchangeably, there are subtle - yet important - differences between the two.

The Most Important Difference

When choosing between a general and family dentist in Edmonds, it is essential to understand to whom these types of dentists cater to, and how they can help you. Even though they have general in the title, general dentists will sometimes restrict their field of work to certain specialties or age groups. A general dentist may only accept patients over a certain age.

If you see a provider of family dentistry, this means that the entire family can visit this dental practice. They serve clients of every age. This not only means that everyone in your family can visit the same dentist, from babies to grandparents, but also that children can stay with the same dentist as they grow.

Understanding the Role of a Family Dentist

The primary focus of your these dentist will be to provide preventative care. This means addressing oral health issues before they have a chance to become problems. It is always easier and better to prevent a problem from happening than to try to repair damage later.

When you visit a family dentist, you will benefit from a professional teeth cleaning that will remove stubborn plaque and tarter build up that regular brushing and flossing will not be able to remove. This will help reduce the risk of cavities, gum disease and other oral health problems. The American Dental Association recommends that you visit your them twice a year, if not more frequently.

To further help prevent oral health issues from occurring, a family dentist in Edmonds will also work to teach every member of your family how to best practice good oral hygiene. This includes teaching you how to brush and floss more effectively.

Early Detection and Corrective Treatment

As you continue to visit your dentist every year, or every six months, it will become easier for the dentist and hygienists to notice any changes in your oral health. This will also them to identify any signs of serious problems, such as gum disease or oral cancer that could develop, very early, allowing for corrective action to be taken right away.

If you require oral surgery or orthodontic work, your family dentist may need to refer you to a specialist. However, there are many corrective procedures that can be taken care of by the family dentistry team that you will have grown to know very well.

Family dentistry practices in Edmonds will often offer dental treatments such as:

€ Fillings
€ Tooth extractions
€ Dental crowns
€ Teeth whitening
€ Root canals
€ And more

If you are in need of any of these treatments, your family dentist will put you right at ease. One of the many benefits of choosing a family dentist is that you will grow to feel comfortable coming to this professional for all of your preventative and corrective dentistry needs.