Preventive Care & Everyday Dentistry
General Dentistry
Comfortable, comprehensive care that helps prevent problems and address them early.
General dentistry keeps teeth and gums healthy through routine care and timely treatment. From exams and cleanings to fillings and gum support, the focus is on protecting your smile for the long term. At Androscoggin Valley Dental, care emphasizes prevention, clear guidance, and treatment options that fit your needs.
Crafting Beautiful Smiles With Percision And Care
General Dentistry at Androscoggin Valley Dental
General dentistry combines preventive services and common restorative treatments to help you stay comfortable, confident, and healthy. Regular visits can catch concerns early, lower the risk of cavities and gum disease, and keep small issues from becoming more complex.
What General Dentistry Includes
Oral health needs can change over time, but consistent care helps maintain a strong foundation. Each visit looks at teeth, gums, bite, and any symptoms you’ve noticed to recommend the right next steps.
- Dental exams Evaluate teeth, gums, bite, and existing dental work to identify issues early.
- Professional cleanings Remove plaque and tartar where brushing and flossing can’t reach.
- Digital X-rays and evaluation Help detect hidden decay, infection, or bone changes.
- Fillings and tooth-colored repairs Restore strength and comfort after cavities or minor damage.
- Gum health support Address bleeding, tenderness, and early gum disease before it progresses.
- Oral cancer screening A quick, routine check that supports overall wellness.
How Preventive Care Protects Your Smile
Prevention goes beyond routine cleanings. Early warning signs, daily habits, and individual risk factors are reviewed to help protect enamel and gums. If grinding, frequent snacking, dry mouth, or past dental issues are present, prevention guidance is tailored so next steps are clear.
- Comfort-focused cleanings with gentle techniques
- Detailed clinical evaluation with digital imaging
- Personalized home-care guidance based on risk factors
When to Be Seen
Routine visits are important even when nothing hurts, as many dental problems begin without symptoms. Sensitivity, bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, chipped teeth, jaw soreness, or rough fillings are also reasons to be evaluated.
General Dentistry FAQ
- How often should dental exams and cleanings be scheduled?
- Many people benefit from visits every six months, though some require more frequent care based on gum health or cavity risk.
- What happens during a routine dental exam?
- The exam includes evaluating teeth, gums, bite, and existing dental work. X-rays may be recommended to assess areas not visible during the exam.
- Are dental X-rays safe?
- Yes. Modern dental X-rays use very low radiation levels and help detect issues early.
- Should bleeding gums be a concern?
- Bleeding can indicate inflammation or early gum disease. Early evaluation often makes treatment simpler and more effective.
- Do professional cleanings hurt?
- Most cleanings are comfortable. Sensitivity can occur if gums are inflamed, and techniques can be adjusted for comfort.
- What if dental visits cause anxiety?
- Many people feel anxious. A slower pace, clear explanations, and comfort-focused care can help make visits easier.
- What’s the difference between a filling and a crown?
- Fillings repair small to moderate decay, while crowns protect teeth that are more damaged or weakened.
- How can cavity risk be reduced?
- Consistent brushing and flossing, limiting frequent snacking and sugary drinks, and regular preventive visits all help lower risk.
- How do I begin routine care?
- An initial evaluation helps establish your current oral health and determine the best prevention and treatment approach.
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Mon–Thu: 8:00am–5:00pm
Fri–Sun: Closed
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