General dentistry involves the diagnosis, treatment, and management of overall oral health needs, including preventive care, restorative procedures, and routine check-ups.

It is recommended to visit the dentist every six months for routine check-ups and cleanings. However, the frequency may vary based on individual oral health needs.

A routine dental check-up typically includes a professional cleaning, an examination of your teeth and gums, X-rays if necessary, and a discussion about your oral health and any needed treatments.

Signs of gum disease include red, swollen, or bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, receding gums, loose teeth, and discomfort while chewing.

Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, using mouthwash, eating a balanced diet, and avoiding tobacco products.

If you have a toothache, rinse your mouth with warm water, floss to remove any debris, and apply a cold compress to reduce swelling. Contact your dentist as soon as possible for an evaluation.

Dental exams are recommended as a key part of dental healthcare. They are a preventative technique, designed to identify any potential issues before they increase in severity and help you maintain good oral hygiene. Without regular and effective dental exams by a qualified dentist, there could be an issue with your teeth which you’ve not noticed and can’t see yourself. Often, there are dental issues that aren’t visible to the person and don’t cause significant amounts of pain but that doesn’t mean that they aren’t an issue. By having a dentist examine your mouth, they will be able to identify issues that you may not have noticed.

The exam isn’t just about checking your dental hygiene, your dentist will also discuss your current eating/drinking habits and your dental care routine. Depending on the state of your teeth, they may take x-rays and conduct a more in-depth exploration into your dental health to ensure you don’t suffer from more serious issues down the line. 

It’s important that these checkups are regular also, as the longer you go between dental exams, the more likely an issue could arise without you knowing. The more time you spend going to the dentist, the better understanding of your oral health they will have and the more effective the advice and treatment they can give you will be.