Are Dentures Part of General Dentistry Services

A general dentist performs general dentistry services and can serve as the first point of contact for patients who need other types of dental care. Some services, such as dentures, may require a referral to a dentist who focuses on a specific area of dentistry.

General dentists vs. prosthodontists

The general dentist is usually responsible for preventative care, such as annual exams and tooth cleanings, and some tooth repair and cosmetic procedures, such as fillings and tooth whitening. A prosthodontist is a specific type of dentist who focuses on restoring missing teeth.

General dentists

All dentists must hold either a DDS (doctor of dental surgery) or DMD (doctor of dental medicine) degree, which requires three or more years of undergraduate education, plus four years of dental school. The primary focus of general dentistry services is the prevention of disease. General dentists offer a variety of services aimed at preventing disease and repairing damaged teeth:

  • Preventative services, such as regular exams and teeth cleaning
  • Educational services, such as oral hygiene instructions
  • Restorative services, such as filling or extracting decayed teeth, repairing loosened or knocked-out teeth and treating gum disease
  • Cosmetic procedures, such as teeth whitening, dental bonding and porcelain veneers
  • Identifying health concerns, such as oral infections, sleep apnea, tobacco use and general health and wellness

It is recommended that patients visit a general dentist at least once every six months for preventative care and whenever an acute issue occurs, such as tooth pain, bleeding gums or trauma. Some general dentists can assist with fitting dentures or refer patients to a prosthodontist.

Prosthodontists

Prosthodontists must complete three additional years of post-graduate education beyond the four years of dental school. Their area of focus is treating dental and facial problems that involve missing teeth. Treatments a prosthodontist may perform include dental implants, crowns, bridges, dentures and treatments for temporomandibular disorders.

Getting dentures

According to a study in the Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry, 37.9 million American adults will need dentures in 2020. The process of getting dentures usually begins with an examination by a general dentist, who may then refer patients to a prosthodontist for further evaluation.

Process

A prosthodontist begins by examining the patient and determining if dentures are a recommended treatment option. If dentures are needed, then the next step is to design a prosthetic that properly fits the patient's mouth and achieves the cosmetic appearance the patient desires.

To achieve the proper fit, the dentist first takes measurements and impressions of the patient's jaw. Those impressions are used to create a model that is placed in the patient's mouth and adjusted to achieve the desired fit and look. The adjusted model is used as the basis to make a set of dentures. This process can take a few months to complete.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: General Dentistry Services in Oviedo, FL.

Conclusion

A general dentist is a good place to start for patients who may need dentures. A dentist providing general dentistry services can recommend treatments and provide a referral for any services that may need to be performed by a prosthodontist or other dental professional.

Request an appointment or call Everest Dental at 407-695-7774 for an appointment in our Oviedo office.

Related Posts

Exploring The Different Teeth Whitening Options

Teeth whitening is a popular cosmetic procedure that can help patients achieve unrivaled brightness levels. When choosing one, knowing what they are, how they work, and their effectiveness is important. If you are considering ways to brighten your smile, read on.Teeth discoloration is a common problem that affects millions of people. There are several causes,…

Tips For Adjusting To Life With Dentures

Dentures refer to a prosthetic piece that is used to replace an entire arch of missing teeth, whether on the top or the bottom. They are one of the most common treatments used to replace teeth because of their affordability, durability, and ability to work with other prosthetic pieces, like dental implants.However, with all new…

Teeth Whitening Options: Which One Is Right For You?

We all want a bright, white smile, but with so many teeth-whitening options out there, it can be hard to choose. There are a ton of different products that claim to whiten teeth, but do they work? How do you know which one to use, not to mention there is also the dentist? Well, that…

Everest Dental

Share
Published by
Everest Dental

Recent Posts

Exploring the Different Teeth Whitening Options

Teeth whitening is a popular cosmetic procedure that can help patients achieve unrivaled brightness levels.…

21 hours ago

Tips for Adjusting to Life With Dentures

Dentures refer to a prosthetic piece that is used to replace an entire arch of…

2 days ago

Teeth Whitening Options: Which One Is Right for You?

We all want a bright, white smile, but with so many teeth-whitening options out there,…

4 days ago

Getting Approved for Dental Implants

Dental implants are a relatively new and effective way to replace teeth, but only some…

7 days ago

Three FAQs About Dental Implants

Dental implants are the most popular teeth replacement option these days. These oral prosthetics look…

1 week ago

Teeth Whitening Options From Your Dentist

Teeth whitening treatments can help you achieve the bright smile you have always wanted. Dentists…

2 weeks ago