General dentistry encompasses a broad range of diseases and disorders of the oral and maxillofacial region. Everyone should see their dentist for routine oral health examinations, twice-yearly cleanings, and treatment of routine oral health complications, such as minor tooth decay. General dentistry is as much about prevention as it is about treatment. Patients who visit Dr. Huang can expect professional oral health care, as well as education and advisement about self-care between office visits.

General dentistry is as much about prevention as it is about treatment. Patients who visit Dr. Huang can expect professional oral health care, as well as education and advisement about self-care between office visits. As the saying goes, “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.”

DID YOU KNOW…

that the American Dental Association recommends that every American visit a general dentist a minimum of one time every six months? Doing so can aid in the detection of decay, oral disease and other dental health problems before they progress and become severe. If you are at risk for certain complications or have a history or periodontal disease and advanced decay, you may need to visit Dr. Huang on a more frequent basis. Patients who visit their dentist regularly and as recommended are more likely to retain their natural teeth and enjoy a lifetime of good oral health.

6 Reasons to See a Dentist

1. REGULAR MAINTENANCE & DENTAL CLEANINGS

The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that everyone visit the dentist a minimum of 2 times per year (every 6 months). Doing so can help prevent advanced oral decay or disease by applying treatment and preventative measures regularly. Like a regular oil change on your car, your teeth and mouth need regular preventative maintenance and cleanings.

It is common sense that patients who visit their dentist regularly and maintain good oral hygiene are more likely to retain their natural teeth and enjoy a lifetime of good oral health.

2. TOOTH OR MOUTH PAIN

Tooth pain is your body’s greatest indicator that something isn’t right. Dr. Huang and the entire Glow Dental team strive to provide quality dental care and keep your teeth healthy and strong using proven dental procedures using modern technology and tools.

With the internet full of home remedies and old-wives tales about DIY solutions, it can be dangerous to leave things untreated. Proper treatment can provide immediate relief, prevent infection & tooth loss, and help you keep your teeth and body healthy.

3. SENSITIVE OR BLEEDING GUMS

Bleeding gums are the first sign of periodontitis. Inflammation and bleeding can be signs that an infection is growing and can sometimes be uncomfortable or painful. Left untreated, gum disease can affect the integrity of your tooth or jawbone. Instead, schedule an appointment with Dr. Huang and her team and see how a simple visit with easy treatment can treat your symptoms and the underlying condition.

4. MISSING TEETH

Missing teeth have a greater impact on oral health than many people realize. The obvious problems include discomfort, problems eating, difficulty speaking, and people staring. Less obvious issues include teeth shifting into the open space causing crooked & overgrown teeth and wide gaps. Lack of stimulation can also cause bone loss in the area where the tooth is missing leading to many different jaw issues. Generally, the sooner a tooth is replaced, the easier treatment will be and the faster the recovery.

5. COSMETIC DENTISTRY

If you have been taking great care of your teeth, but want to make your smile POP, cosmetic dentistry is a great option. From single-visit enhancements such as teeth whitening to full mouth transformation, speak to your dentist about the options available to you.

6. SNORING & SLEEP APNEA

Most instances of snoring are harmless and easily resolved. Weight loss and oral appliances prescribed by Dr. Huang can provide long-lasting results. In other instances, snoring can cause:

• Episodes in which you stop breathing during sleep
• Dry mouth
• Morning headache insomnia
• Irritability
• Increased risk of cardiovascular issues

Left untreated, snoring can cause insufficient or fragmented sleep which can contribute to problems with blood pressure, heart disease, heart attacks, diabetes, and even stroke. Talk to Dr. Huang or one of our skilled team members to discuss the variety of treatments available to solve your snoring issues.

Dental Exams

Dental exams are an essential piece of preventative dentistry. Most oral health problems are preventable and best treated as early as possible. It is our experience that the sooner a problem is treated, the easier and less expensive the treatment will be.

Your visit will begin with a general inspection of the condition of your teeth. If you have not been to the dentist in a while, Dr. Huang may order x-rays. Later, Dr. Huang will review your x-rays and discuss any symptoms you may have been experiencing. Dr. Huang will then make a recommendation for treatment (if applicable) and answer any questions you may have. It’s that easy!

Dental Cleanings

Dental cleanings are some of the most effective preventative dental procedures. Dental cleanings are usually performed alongside dental exams and may even treat some of the issues you are having.

During a dental cleaning, an oral hygienist will use special metal instruments to gently scrape away tartar along your gum line. After your teeth are completely tartar-free, the hygienist brushes them with a high-powered electric brush. While it sounds scary, it’s a great way to get a deep clean and remove any tartar left behind from the scaler.

Professional cleanings use toothpaste with a gritty consistency that gently scrubs your teeth. If done by a professional, this polishing of the teeth is deemed safe to do twice a year. But don’t be as harsh with your teeth at home, because you’ll wear down the enamel.

The last step of the cleaning process is a fluoride treatment. This treatment is used as a protectant for your teeth to help fight against cavities. The gel treatment will be absorbed by your teeth and help protect them for months. At the end of your treatment, you’ll have a refined smile and smooth tooth surface that is sure to have you grinning from ear to ear.

Frequently Asked Questions

DO I NEED A DENTAL EXAM OR GENERAL DENTISTRY?

Yes. Even if you are not currently experiencing any symptoms of tooth decay or gum disease, it is important to visit your dentist for a thorough examination and cleaning. Despite daily brushing and flossing, your teeth can still accumulate tartar that can harbor bacteria. These bacteria can lead to gum disease and tooth decay if not professionally removed by your dentist.

WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT DURING MY DENTIST VISIT?

Your visit will begin with a general inspection of the condition of your teeth. If you have not been to the dentist in a while, Dr. Huang may order x-rays. An oral hygienist will then use special metal instruments to gently scrape away tartar along your gum line. Later, Dr. Huang will review your x-rays and discuss any symptoms you may have been experiencing. Dr. Huang will then make a recommendation for treatment (if applicable) and answer any questions you may have.

ARE THERE ANY SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS I NEED TO FOLLOW AFTER SEEING MY DENTIST?

Based on the results of your dental check-up, Dr. Huang may recommend that you return for treatment or follow a special at-home oral care plan. You may also be referred to a dental specialist for treatment of advanced oral health conditions.