A General Dentists Duties:
The treatments usually performed by a general dentist will be:
Fillings: Cavities and similar problems are common, and fall squarely into the domain of the general dentist. Fillings keep cavities from developing into worse issues, and can also keep teeth looking their best. Common types of fillings are gold, amalgam, mercury, porcelain, or composite resin.
Root Canal: When the pulp of a tooth becomes infected, a root canal is needed. A dentist will drill down into the infected area and remove the bacteria and infected tissue. Most general dentists are comfortable performing this procedure, but if not, a specialist will be recommended.
Dental Bridge: Bridges are constructed for those with missing teeth. They consist of false teeth, held in place by crowns which fit over the real teeth surrounding the gap. Again, most general dentists will perform this procedure, but bridging specialists can also be found.
Crowns: Teeth that are broken but uninfected can be capped to prevent further damage. The caps are called crowns.
Dentures: For those missing several teeth, enough that a bridge will not work, dentures might be needed. Dentures can comprise an entire set of teeth or just the teeth that are needed.
Teeth Cleaning: A common service that falls clearly in the purview of the general dentist is dental cleaning. Even the best brushing and flossing habits can’t keep back all the plaque and debris that builds up in and around teeth.
Bonding: The process of attaching a veneer or similar substance to a tooth is called bonding. This procedure often falls to the specialist in cosmetic dentistry, however, most general dentists are more than able to complete it.
Oral Treatments: The addition of dental implants or handling of syndromes like TMJ are considered oral treatments. Most general dentists are well versed in these areas of practice.
X-rays: The more information a general dentist has about the workings of a patient’s teeth and gums, the better. Fast and safe x-rays are the first step for most dentists.
There are three parts to a dental bridge: a pontic (false) tooth to cover the empty space and two abutments (support) teeth.