General Dentist in West Bend

What Type of Dentist Is a General Dentist?

A general practice dentist is similar to a primary care doctor. Both concentrate on the overall wellness of the mouth or body rather than focusing on a specific area. When minor issues are caught before they escalate, your oral health is easier to maintain, and it's more cost-effective too! Your family dentist will help you keep healthy teeth and gums, which will significantly contribute to your physical health. If it's been a while since you've had general dentistry services like a cleaning or a checkup, then call our West Bend office and schedule an appointment.

Which Dental Procedures Do General Dentists Perform?

A dentist general practice performs routine dental services that are necessary for good dental health, such as:

• Checkups and cleanings
• Cavities
• Providing information on maintenance
• Preventing gum disease
• Repairing or strengthening diseased or damaged teeth
• Treating dental issues to prevent their recurrence

Which Types of Services Are Encompassed in General Dentistry?

A general practice dentist performs routine repair and maintenance on teeth and gums so that they remain healthy and any potential issues are caught before they escalate. Types of services include, but are not limited to:

• Tooth Repair & Replacement: Teeth that are damaged or missing can be repaired or replaced so that the structural integrity of the jaw and the other teeth is maintained.
• Crowns – Ceramic or Porcelain: A general dentist can place ceramic or porcelain crowns on teeth that have had a root canal or that needed an extensive filling. The type of crown will depend on the type and location of the tooth.
• Dental Bonding: Dental bonding is a thin, tooth-colored layer of composite resin that protects damaged teeth.
• Dental Bridges: A dental bridge is one or more artificial teeth that are attached to each other and secured in the mouth at either end by an implant or a natural tooth.
• Fillings – Composite or Porcelain: Fillings are used to repair teeth that have been damaged by decay or trauma, and they restore functionality to the tooth.
• Laser Dentistry: In 1990, the FDA approved the use of laser dentistry in the U.S., and it's now a very popular alternative to drills and other dental equipment. It uses light and heat rather than noisy equipment.
• Nitrous Oxide: Often called laughing gas, nitrous oxide is used as a sedative by many dentists.
• Sealants: Sealants are protective coatings applied to rear teeth. They discourage the formation of decay and disease.

When Should I Schedule a Dental Appointment?

If it's been at least a year since you've seen a general dentist, then you should schedule an appointment at your earliest convenience. The American Dental Association recommends that adults and children have an annual dental checkup and cleaning at a minimum, more frequently if an issue arises.  It's very easy to make an appointment with our general dental office. Call Paradise Dental Professionals at (262) 208-5216, and we'll get you in at a time and date that's convenient.

How Much Will My Dental Visit Cost?

The cost of your dental visit will depend on the procedure that you need, your insurance benefits, and the rates your West Bend dentist charges. Your dental plan provider is the best source of information on your plan benefits, so call them first. If you still need information, then contact our West Bend office, and we'll help you.

What's Involved in the Teeth Cleaning Procedure?

When you come to our general family dentistry office to have your teeth cleaned, you'll experience the following process:

• Your dentist and hygienist will check your gums and teeth to make sure there are no other issues that need to be addressed.
• After checking your teeth and gums, your dentist will advise the hygienist of any treatments you need, and then your cleaning will begin.
• The hygienist will remove all the tartar and plaque that have accumulated. Tartar and plaque are very hard substances that can only be removed by a dental professional.
• Next, your hygienist will floss your teeth.
• Then your teeth will be deep-cleaned with a gritty toothpaste and an electric toothbrush that may sound to you like a dental drill, after which you'll need to rinse your mouth thoroughly.
• If you're receiving a fluoride treatment to protect your teeth, the hygienist will apply it, and then you're done.

You'll have a fresh and clean feeling in your mouth, and you'll know that your mouth is as clean as it can be. If you need to schedule a cleaning and checkup, then call our West Bend office, and we'll schedule a convenient day and time for you.

How Much Time Do I Need to Allot for My Dental Appointment?

The duration of your appointment will depend on the procedure you need. It can be as short as 30 minutes, or it can take hours, but the average appointment is about an hour. When you schedule your appointment, ask us how long it will take, and we'll be happy to let you know.

What Preparations Should I Make for My Dental Appointment?

There are no special preparations that you need to make for your dental appointment. However, there are some tips that can expedite the procedure, such as:

• Make sure to brush and floss your teeth just before you come in for your appointment.
• Make sure to be on time. If this is your first appointment in our West Bend office, allow extra time to complete the necessary paperwork.
• Bring a list of all your allergies, medical conditions, and supplements and medications, both prescription and over-the-counter, and the dosages.
• Bring your insurance card and be familiar with the coverages of your plan.
• Make sure to let us know if you're feeling nervous or anxious about your appointment.

Dental appointments have the reputation of being difficult and sometimes painful experiences, but we do our utmost to ensure you have a pleasant experience. If at any time you feel anxious or nervous, let us know, and we'll do our best to solve the problem. Don't neglect your dental health due to your fear of the dentist's chair. Call us for an appointment today. You'll be glad you did.