General Dentistry
We at Rainier Dental believe that a healthy smile is the cornerstone of overall well-being. Our general dentistry services are designed to provide comprehensive oral care for patients of all ages, ensuring that your teeth and gums remain in optimal condition.
From routine check-ups to advanced treatments, we’re committed to helping you achieve and maintain a vibrant, healthy smile that lasts a lifetime. Let us be your partner in oral health, providing expert care with a gentle touch.
Routine general dentistry appointments preserve your teeth and gums and reduce your risk of common oral health problems like cavities and periodontal disease. At Rainier Dental in Bonney Lake, Puyallup, Sumner, and Tacoma, Washington, the team of skilled dentists provides general dentistry to people of all ages, including teeth cleanings, fillings, and dental X-rays. Call the nearest Rainier Dental office today to schedule an appointment or book your visit online.
Book Appointment
Understanding General Dentistry
General dentistry is the primary field of dental care that focuses on preventing, diagnosing, and treating a wide range of oral health issues. It serves as the first line of defense against dental problems and plays a crucial role in maintaining your overall health.
General dentists are skilled professionals who provide a variety of services, from routine cleanings to more complex procedures, all aimed at preserving your natural teeth and promoting excellent oral hygiene habits.
Benefits of General Dentistry
- Preventive Care for Long-Term Health
- Comprehensive Oral Health Management
- Education and Empowerment
- Early Detection of Serious Conditions
- Aesthetic Improvements
Preventive Care for Long-Term Health
Regular visits to your general dentist can significantly reduce the risk of developing serious oral health issues. Through routine cleanings, examinations, and early detection of potential problems, we help you maintain a healthy mouth and avoid costly treatments down the road. Preventive care is the foundation of general dentistry, ensuring that small issues don’t become major concerns.
Comprehensive Oral Health Management
General dentistry offers a holistic approach to oral care. Your dentist at Rainier Dental will assess not just your teeth, but also your gums, jaw, and overall oral structure. This comprehensive view allows us to identify and address interconnected issues that might affect your oral health. From treating gum disease to managing tooth alignment, we provide a full spectrum of care to keep your entire mouth healthy.
Education and Empowerment
One of the key benefits of general dentistry is the emphasis on patient education. During your visits, we’ll provide valuable insights into proper oral hygiene techniques, nutrition tips for dental health, and personalized advice based on your unique needs. This knowledge empowers you to take an active role in maintaining your oral health between dental visits, leading to better long-term outcomes.
Early Detection of Serious Conditions
Regular dental check-ups are essential for more than just cavity prevention. Your general dentist is trained to spot early signs of oral cancer, jaw disorders, and other potentially serious conditions. Early detection can make a significant difference in treatment success rates, highlighting the importance of consistent dental care as part of your overall health strategy.
Aesthetic Improvements
While the primary focus of general dentistry is health, it also plays a crucial role in improving the appearance of your smile. Many general dentistry procedures, such as teeth whitening, bonding, and veneers, can enhance your smile’s aesthetics. These treatments not only boost your confidence but also contribute to better oral health by encouraging you to maintain your improved smile.
Our General Dentistry Process
Why Choose Us for General Dentistry
At Rainier Dental, we stand out in the field of general dentistry for several reasons. Our team of experienced dentists combines extensive knowledge with a passion for patient-centered care. We invest in the latest dental technologies and techniques, ensuring that you receive the most effective and comfortable treatments available.
We understand that visiting the dentist can be anxiety-inducing for some patients. That’s why we’ve created a warm, welcoming environment designed to put you at ease. Our compassionate staff takes the time to listen to your concerns, explain procedures thoroughly, and ensure you feel comfortable every step of the way. We believe that building trust and open communication with our patients is key to providing exceptional dental care.
FAQs About General Dentistry
Are you curious about general dentistry? Here are answers to some commonly asked questions to help you better understand our services and approach to dental care.
I have healthy teeth and gums. Is general dentistry necessary?
Scheduling general dentistry at least twice a year is key to protecting your oral health. Many potentially serious problems, like cavities and gum disease, develop slowly without warning. Routine exams, X-rays, and teeth cleanings prevent plaque buildup and alert you to potential problems when they respond best to treatment.
What services does general dentistry include?
The Rainier Dental team offers various general dentistry services, including:
- Teeth cleanings – Professional teeth cleaning removes plaque –– a mixture of food particles, bacteria, and saliva –– from the surfaces of your teeth and beneath your gums. You need routine teeth cleaning, even if you brush and floss daily.
- Dental X-rays – Dental X-rays use advanced imaging technology to take photos of your tooth roots, jaw, and alveolar (the bone that supports your upper teeth). X-rays provide a noninvasive way to check for cavities, bone loss, and other potentially serious problems.
- Extractions – An extraction is a common type of oral surgery. During treatment, your Rainier Dental provider removes a damaged or severely decaying tooth from its socket. The team only recommends extractions when other, less invasive forms of treatment aren’t successful.
- Restorative dentistry – Restorative dentistry is a general dentistry subspecialty that repairs damaged or decaying teeth. The Rainier Dental team offers several types of restorations, including fillings, bridges, crowns, and dental implants.
- Root canal therapy – Root canal therapy is an oral surgery that treats infected or inflamed tooth pulp –– a soft substance inside your teeth containing nerves and blood vessels. Removing infected pulp preserves your tooth, preventing the need for an extraction.
- Invisalign® – Invisalign is a type of orthodontic treatment used to straighten your teeth or jaw. It uses removable plastic aligners to correct bite abnormalities like crooked, crowded, and overlapping teeth.
What should I bring to a general dentistry appointment?
Bring the following items to get the most out of your general dentistry appointment at Rainier Dental:
- Dental insurance information
- A list of the vitamins, supplements, and medications you take
- Questions or oral health concerns that you want to discuss
- Names and contact information of your previous dentists
- Results from recent tests, like oral X-rays
Brush and floss before visiting the office, and arrive at least 15 minutes early so you have time to complete new patient paperwork.
Call Rainier Dental today to schedule a general dentistry appointment, or book your visit online.
What is considered general dentistry?
General dentistry encompasses a wide range of dental services aimed at maintaining oral health. This includes preventive care such as regular cleanings and exams, restorative procedures like fillings and crowns, and basic cosmetic treatments. General dentists also diagnose oral health issues, provide patient education, and manage overall dental health for patients of all ages.
What percentage of dentists practice general dentistry?
According to recent statistics, approximately 80% of dentists in the United States practice general dentistry. This makes general dentists the primary providers of dental care for most people. At Rainier Dental, our general dentists are equipped to handle a wide range of oral health needs, from routine check-ups to more complex procedures, ensuring comprehensive care for our patients.
Why is general dentistry necessary?
General dentistry is essential for maintaining good oral health, which is closely linked to overall well-being. Regular dental check-ups and cleanings help prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health issues. Early detection and treatment of dental problems can save you time, discomfort, and expenses in the long run. Moreover, your oral health can impact your general health, making routine dental care a crucial part of your overall healthcare strategy.
Can a general dentist do cosmetic dentistry?
Absolutely! Many general dentists, including those at Rainier Dental, are trained in various cosmetic procedures. We offer services like teeth whitening, veneers, and bonding to enhance your smile’s appearance. For more complex cosmetic cases, we may collaborate with or refer you to a specialist to ensure you receive the best possible care.
Can periodontist do general dentistry?
While periodontists specialize in treating gum diseases and performing certain surgical procedures, they are also trained in general dentistry. However, most periodontists focus primarily on their specialty area. At Rainier Dental, our general dentists work closely with specialists when needed, ensuring you receive comprehensive care tailored to your specific needs.
Take the First Step Towards Optimal Oral Health
Your path to a healthier, more radiant smile begins today. At Rainier Dental, we’re ready to provide you with top-tier general dentistry services tailored to your unique needs. Don’t wait to prioritize your oral health.
Contact us now to schedule your comprehensive dental evaluation and discover the difference expert care can make for your smile.
Book Appointment