“General dentistry” is a term typically used for simple services provided during regular checkups. Dental cleanings are certainly an important part of these quick visits. Sometimes, it’s up to us to remove stubborn plaque and tartar that you just can get rid of at home.
At Smiles of Punta Gorda, Dr. Martin provides other general dentistry services to keep your mouth healthy, such as:
- Fluoride treatments
- Sealants to protect your teeth
- Nutritional advice depending on your smile’s condition
- Dry mouth counseling
- Bad breath treatment
- Customized athletic mouthguards
- Oral cancer exams
If you’re interested in any of these services, please contact our Punta Gorda, FL office today at 941-585-0424.
In the meantime, let’s take a closer look at how general dentistry allows you and Dr. Martin to benefit your smile beyond a professional “brushing.”
How A Simple Checkup Can Change Your Smile
When you’re in our office for a checkup, it’s a great time to ask questions and learn more about oral health. For instance, we’ll provide you with the best toothbrush for your smile and teach you the most beneficial brushing techniques.
The great thing about general dentistry is that while we’re solving and preventing common issues, we may notice some dental matters that require further attention. You may also find out that some of our services can improve your smile far more easily than you ever imagined.
Getting Rid Of Dental Sensitivity
You might experience sensitivity during a cleaning that you may or may not have experienced at home. This could be the result of cavities, gum recession, or other issues. If so, we can discuss our restorative dentistry options to solve the problem.
Some of our restorative dentistry services that stop dental sensitivity include:
- Dental crowns, which repair and protect damaged teeth
- Tooth fillings to strengthen teeth that have been damaged by cavities
- Root canals to remove damaged pulp that’s causing you pain
If you’re experiencing sensitivity due to gum recession, we will use a gum graft to cover your exposed tooth root. This will both stop the pain and enhance your appearance! We will also treat and prevent gum disease that is causing you discomfort or may cause issues later on.
Discovering How To Happily Smile Again
Many people avoid the dentist for too long due to embarrassment. It’s a frustrating situation: the patient hasn’t had a cleaning in a long time, so their teeth are stained. They put off coming in for a cleaning because they’re ashamed, which only makes the discoloration worse.
First of all, there is NO reason for you to ever be embarrassed to visit our office. We’re here to help, and we understand how easy it can be for teeth to become discolored.
We use the latest and most patient-friendly tools to comfortably get rid of stains. If our usual cleaning techniques don’t brighten your smile to your satisfaction, we can discuss our cosmetic dentistry options.
We can improve the appearance of your smile using the following:
- Teeth Whitening – A take-home whitening kit can brighten your smile to your exact specifications.
- Dental Veneers – Strong, tooth-colored material is placed over your teeth to conceal staining and other cosmetic imperfections.
- Tooth Bonding – This involves a durable, natural-looking material that Dr. Martin bonds to a tooth to cover cosmetic flaws.
Your Comfort Always Comes First
Before any cleaning or exam, make sure you point out to us which teeth or areas of your mouth are sensitive. We’ll gently work around them, then provide a thorough examination to determine what could be causing the problem. From there, we’ll offer recommendations for certain services that can help (some of which we’ve already covered above).
If necessary, we will painlessly apply a local anesthesia to numb your mouth. To relieve any dental anxiety you may have, we also provide oral sedation. You can also choose to use our headphones and relax to music while we work.
Younger patients are often fearful of the dentist, and we can understand why. We love seeing patients 5 and up, and we always offer treats and prizes so they feel more welcomed.
Make Some Time For Your Smile With Us!
Dr. Martin and Smiles of Punta Gorda will help your smile using the most comfortable and patient-friendly techniques possible. To make an appointment today, call our Punta Gorda, FL dentist office at 941-585-0424. You can also contact us through our convenient online form.