If you want to keep your teeth, gums, and smile healthy, it’s important to participate in general dentistry. Regular trips to the dentist can alert you to potentially serious issues and educate you on proper oral hygiene. At King Centre Dental, C. Benson Clark and the team offer a comprehensive suite of general dentistry services, including oral exams, oral X-rays, dental cleanings, and tooth fillings. To make an appointment at the practice in Alexandria, Virginia, call the office today or schedule online.

What is general dentistry?

General dentistry provides basic oral health care. At King Centre Dental, the team uses general dentistry to:
  • Keep teeth and gums healthy
  • Detect potentially serious issues early on
  • Educate individuals about good oral hygiene
  • Improve the alignment of your smile

 

General dentistry also presents an opportunity to ask questions or discuss unusual symptoms. If you have a history of cavities or gum disease, your provider might even set aside some time to teach you about the importance of good nutrition.

What services does general dentistry provide?

At King Centre Dental, the team offers a variety of general dental services, including:

Oral exams

An oral exam assesses the health of your teeth, gums, tongue, and mouth. If your provider detects any abnormalities, like an abscess or growth, they might order additional tests like X-rays or a biopsy.

Oral X-rays

Oral X-rays capture detailed images of your jaw, tooth roots, and alveolar bone with electronic sensors and ionizing radiation. These images help the King Centre Dental team detect issues not visible to the eye, such as decay and bone loss.

Dental cleanings

A dental cleaning removes plaque, food particles, and harmful bacteria from your teeth and gums. Following the cleaning, your provider flosses and polishes your teeth.

Tooth fillings

Tooth fillings are a type of restoration that repairs enamel damage caused by a cavity. At King Centre Dental, the team offers tooth-colored fillings. These fillings are made of composite resin and mimic the color of your natural tooth enamel.

Fluoride treatment

Fluoride is a mineral found in many water sources and foods. When applied to your teeth, it strengthens the enamel, reducing the risk of tooth decay.

Dental sealants

Sometimes fluoride treatment isn’t enough to prevent cavities. If you regularly experience tooth decay, your provider might recommend sealants. Dental sealants are clear coatings made of plastic applied to your teeth. They keep harmful bacteria at bay and protect your enamel.

Orthodontics

If you have crooked teeth or a malpositioned jaw, your provider might recommend orthodontic treatment. Orthodontics uses custom oral appliances to improve the alignment of your smile. The team at King Centre Dental offers orthodontic treatment with Invisalign®.

How often should I see my general dentist?

The frequency at which you need to visit the team at King Centre Dental depends on your age and oral health history. The providers typically recommend scheduling a visit once every six months. If you have a history of cavities and gum disease or an underlying health problem, more frequent checkups may be necessary.
To make a general dentistry appointment at King Centre Dental, call the office today or schedule online.