GENERAL DENTIST—WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

General dentists help evaluate, diagnose, prevent, and treat diseases of the oral cavity. They also maintain the function and appearance of the teeth. Many oral diseases and abnormalities can indicate other diseases. A general dentist may refer patients to their physician or a specialist for further evaluation or vice versa for treatment.

What Are the Requirements for a Skilled General Dentist?

General dentists need to have received an extensive education before practicing. They must undergo an undergraduate program of three or more years, then proceed to dental school for four years to achieve the title of a general dentist.

Before selecting a dentist, inquire if they offer the dental services you’re looking for. Apart from routine cleanings, general dentists also provide the following services:

• Dentures
• Veneers
• Invisalign
• Crowns
• Root canals
• Tooth extraction
• Bonding

Your general dentist will work with other medical experts to help you care for all of your dental needs for specialized procedures.

Family Dentist and General Dentist—What Is the Difference?

There is no significant difference between the two. Similar to a general dentist, family dentists also undergo good training. They must obtain their undergraduate degree and attend dental school before diagnosing patients. Most of their services are not different from what the general dentist provides.

The main difference between a family dentist and a general dentist is that a family dentist focuses mainly on dental procedures for all ages. As a family, you don’t have to visit multiple dentists; instead, you can take care of your family’s dental needs in one convenient location. That is your family dentist.

A Family dentist also focuses on educating patients of all ages on teeth cleaning practices. Whether they’re teaching a toddler proper brushing technique or showing an elderly patient the best way for cleaning their dentures, a family dentist focuses on ensuring a positive dental experience for your entire family. With a family dentist, you are assured of good dental care habits at home or inside and outside of their office for yourself and your family.

General dentists have one primary goal: to help you maintain a healthy, symmetric smile. Despite the objective of dentists being to keep all their patients smiling, general dentists are tied to a specific age group. They might choose to work with either the elderly or the younger patients. In case your general dentist does not meet your requirement, you’ll probably have to look for your family dentist to provide the care you need.

Schedule an Appointment to Learn About General Dentists

Deciding if you need a specialist can be a tough decision. You can make it easier on yourself by visiting your general dentist first. Your general dentist will assess the situation and determine if you need an extra level of care. At Cochran Family Dental, we can help you determine the level of care you’ll need. We serve the cities of Leesburg, Ashburn, and Purcellville with modern and comprehensive dental care services. To learn more about the services we offer, call us today to schedule an appointment at 703-771-9034, or email us using the contact form on this page.