There are many different types of dentists today, but the most common is the general dentist. What is general dentistry? General dentistry is a profession that deals with the care of teeth and gums. General dentists were in high demand in many places.
The main duties of general dentists are to prevent tooth decay, treat tooth decay, control tooth sensitivity and the loss of tooth enamel over time, and control dental disease. General dentists are also responsible for educating their patients on how to properly care for their teeth.
Dentists can provide services such as removing cavities, repairing broken teeth, filling cavities, removing specific teeth, conducting examinations, providing fluoride treatments, and other dental services.
To become a dentist,
You must complete a four-year degree that includes chemistry, biology, or other science subjects. General dentists with a four-year degree usually work 35-40 hours each week in their office or in another office. Before dentists can work as general dentists, they must pass a state licensing exam with demonstration and writing skills.
A dentist’s salary depends on where they start their practice and whether they start general dental practice. Those with years of experience or experts in a particular procedure can expect to charge more than a general dentist office.
If a patient needs braces or other alignment procedures on the teeth, the dentist usually refers the patient to a cosmetic specialist. Extraction can be more complicated if the root of the tooth is rotated or there is another problem that prevents the dentist from removing the tooth in a simple procedure.
Finding a dentist is as easy as opening your phone book.
The profession has evolved, each offering a range of services that improve the way patients and their teeth are cared for. If you need annual teeth cleaning, whitening and dental care, your dentist is your best bet. If you don’t know what you need, ask your dentist. Your dentist can help you decide what needs to be done and where the procedure can be done. Usually, when a dentist refers you to another specialist, the other specialist will try to work with you and make an appointment on your own to fit into your schedule sooner rather than calling you.
Having a family dentist is helpful because it ensures you don’t have to tell your family your entire dental history every time you visit a new dentist. Also, healthy teeth lead to the elimination of various diseases, so regular visits to the dentist are essential.
Like most general dentists in Raleigh, many choose to focus on a specialized audience such as children (pediatric dentistry). However, when reading promotional materials, especially for Raleigh dentists, it can be confusing what other dentists actually offer. It works, but trying to meet the needs of the state as a whole doesn’t work locally. (Thus, plans have recently begun for a second dental college in the state.)
Sedation Dentistry –
Dentists who provide additional sedation services (beyond the “standard” anesthesia used by most general dentists) and manage anxiety and pain sensitivity. The NC Board of Dentistry, effective since 2009, now regulates the administration of sedation by general dentists, requiring special training and experience for sedation providers. There are different levels of comfort licenses. Many patients who experience anxiety or are sensitive to pain can benefit from a level known as oral conscious sedation.
– Implant Dentistry – Dentists who provide or use dental implants (natural tooth replacements) to replace dentures or bridges to increase stability or strengthen more natural teeth.
