General Dentistry Specialist

What is general dentistry?

General dentistry is an oral health specialty that diagnoses and treats common oral health problems. Visiting Park Place Smiles at least twice each year is an easy and effective way to lower the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. In addition, it presents an opportunity to discuss unusual symptoms, ask questions, and build a relationship with Dr. Patel.

What services does general dentistry provide?

Dr. Patel provides a variety of general dentistry services, including:

Oral exams

An oral exam is a routine checkup that assesses the condition of your teeth, gums, and tongue. During an exam, Dr. Patel uses a mirror to carefully observe the hard and soft tissues in your mouth. If anything appears out of the ordinary, she can order additional testing, like a biopsy.

Oral X-rays

Oral X-rays provide detailed photographs of your jaw, alveolar bone, and tooth roots. Dr. Patel uses them to detect potentially serious oral health problems that aren’t visible to the naked eye. They can also help guide certain treatments, like oral surgery or the placement of dental implants.

Teeth cleaning

Teeth cleaning is an outpatient procedure that removes plaque and tartar from beneath your gum line and the surfaces of your teeth. Afterward, Dr. Patel polishes your teeth with a gritty toothpaste, flosses them, and applies a fluoride treatment, if prescribed.

Dental restorations

Restorations are custom oral appliances that repair missing, damaged, or decaying teeth. Dr. Patel offers several types of restorations, including crowns, bridges, inlays and onlays, and dentures.

Dental implants

Dental implants are metal posts that fuse with your jaw to support restorations. 

Oral surgery

Oral surgery uses special tools and treatment techniques to address complex oral health problems like pulp damage or severe gum disease. Whenever possible, Dr. Patel and the Park Place Smiles team use minimally invasive methods to speed up the recovery process.

TMJ treatment

TMJ is a common but painful problem associated with headaches, jaw stiffness, and difficulty chewing. Dr. Patel can provide relief with a custom night guard.

How often should I invest in general dentistry?

If you want to keep your teeth and gums in optimal condition, make a general dentistry appointment with Dr. Patel at least twice a year. Regular checkups can alert you to potentially serious problems before they present symptoms, ensuring good oral health for years to come.

To learn more about general dentistry, make an appointment at Park Place Smiles by calling the office or booking online today.