A general dentist is a highly-skilled healthcare professional whose expertise lies in the diagnosis, treatment and management of oral health issues for patients of all ages. They do not choose to specialize in a particular facet of dentistry, but are rather the best resource for identifying and managing oral concerns.

During routine appointments with your dentist, they can remove plaque, tartar and other debris from your teeth to prevent future tooth decay and gum disease. They also use diagnostic tools like X-rays and oral health exams to identify and catch any early warning signs of dental problems. This allows for quick and effective treatment, so your dentist can help you avoid more costly procedures down the road.

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A Syracuse general dentist can repair your dental damage and alleviate pain through procedures such as fillings, root canals, and crowns. They can also treat TMJ disorders, perform obstructive sleep apnea screenings and recommend or prescribe oral appliances.

Other facets of a general dentist’s practice include providing cosmetic treatments, such as veneers and teeth whitening. In addition, a general dentist is equipped to treat gum diseases through scaling and root planing and provide other surgical interventions, such as extractions and oral surgery.

The vast majority of general dentists work in private practice, often as solo or small-practice owners. Many also serve communities or locations with limited access to dental care and coordinate their work with extended-function dental assistants, dental hygienists, or dental therapists, depending on the state. A recent survey indicated that 85% of general dentists report no or only a small amount of competitive pressure from specialists and found their collegiality to be strongly positive.