It used to be that you only went to the dentist twice a year for a check-up. In the past few decades, dentists nationwide have added such services as cosmetic dentistry, orthodontics, and restorative dentistry, leaving many to wonder, “What is general dentistry?”
General Dentistry Services at Smiles of Naperville
Dr. Prasad Gonavarum and his staff help patients experience optimal dental health with regular dental exams and cleaning in addition to several other services. We recommend that both adults and children come in for a professional cleaning every six months. In addition to polishing, we scale the teeth to ensure that we remove all plaque and bacteria that is present. Immediately after your cleaning is complete, Dr. Gonavarum visually inspects your teeth and gums using an angled mirror to check for cavities and any major dental problems. At least once a year, we take digital x-rays so we can monitor your teeth and gums for any changes.
Other general dentistry services include:
- Fluoride treatments: Fluoride helps to increase the strength of your teeth and prevents them from developing cavities. Although the substance is present in water and several foods you eat, it often isn’t enough to provide the maximum benefit. Children should have a fluoride treatment at every routine exam. We also recommend it for people with a recent history of cavities, those who don’t practice good oral hygiene, to correct hypersensitivity of teeth, and for people with a diet high in carbohydrates or sugar.
- Dental Sealants: We place sealants in areas where food and bacteria can enter and potentially cause the tooth to develop a cavity. The coating of sealants provides a protective covering that helps to preserve the tooth long-term. We may recommend a dental sealant if a tooth is in danger of needing a filling.
- Home care education: Since you only see us twice a year, it’s essential to take good care of your teeth and gums between appointments. We are happy to provide instruction on proper tooth brushing techniques, flossing, and rinsing.
Schedule Your Check-Up in Advance
Even if your next cleaning and exam isn’t due for several months, we encourage you to schedule it as soon as possible. We are open until 7:00 p.m. three nights per week and Saturday until 2:00 p.m. for your convenience. Dr. Gonavarum and his staff look forward to seeing you soon.