What Is General Dentistry?
General dentistry includes prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and management of your overall oral health care needs. With general dental services, we’re able to keep your smile healthy and ward off common oral health issues, such as tooth decay, cavities, gum disease, and tooth loss. Our highly trained dental hygienists use specialized tools to ensure that each tooth is plaque-free and feeling fresh. During your regular dental visit, you can expect an exam of your teeth and gums, professional teeth cleaning, and for new patients, we’ll take a set of digital x-rays for a detailed, comprehensive view of your mouth’s structures.
Our General & Family Dentistry Services
Dental Cleanings & Exams
No matter your age, routine teeth cleanings and dental exams are necessary for optimal oral health. We recommend scheduling your regular checkup once every six months or at least twice a year. This allows us to thoroughly clean your teeth and examine your teeth, gums, and cheeks for signs of any underlying issues. Teeth cleanings are one of the most effective ways to rid built-up plaque before it hardens into tartar. One of our dental hygienists will use special dental tools to clean your teeth, making sure to tackle those pesky hard-to-reach areas. Often, these cleanings are enough to reverse the effects of gum disease or cavities.
Oral Cancer Screenings
During your routine checkup, Dr. Middleton will examine your head, mouth, and neck for any potential signs of oral pathologies. He’ll also look out for diseases of the mouth and throat that include oral cancer. Health conditions like these can be dangerous if left untreated or misidentified. That’s why catching them early is the best way to support a successful treatment. We recommend performing self-examinations every so often to look for any possible indications of oral cancer. It only takes a few minutes and can enhance your peace of mind. Some common signs to look out for include:
- Reddish patches or whitish patches in the mouth
- Sores that fail to heal and bleed easily
- Lumps or thickening of the skin lining inside the mouth
- Chronic sore throat or hoarseness
- Difficulty chewing or swallowing
Periodontal Treatment
Periodontal (gum) disease is the leading cause of tooth loss. That’s why we’re committed to creating and maintaining the optimal health of your gums. During your routine exam, a member of our Silsbee dental team will examine your gums for signs of an oral infection. We can find and treat even the most subtle cases and symptoms of gum disease. The following symptoms may indicate gum disease:
- Swollen, bleeding, and tender gums
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Widening gaps between the teeth
- Persistent bad breath
- Lengthed teeth or receding gums
Please contact our office right away at (409) 385-3651 if you’ve experienced any of these symptoms. We’ll schedule your appointment with Dr. Middleton.
Pediatric Dentistry
Dr. Middleton and our Silsbee dental team are equipped to treat all members of the family, including your little ones. With pediatric dentistry, we’re able to cater to your children’s dental needs and provide them with a foundation of good oral health. This includes teaching them proper oral habits that’ll set them up for a lifetime of success. We recommend bringing your child to the dentist by their first birthday to get them used to routine appointments and comfortable in the dental chair.
Comfortable, Compassionate Care With Dr. Middleton
Silsbee Smiles, high-quality, comprehensive patient care is our top priority. That’s why you can rest assured that your oral health is in great hands. General and family dentistry is of the utmost importance and we’ll make sure your family’s smiles are healthy for years to come. To schedule a routine dental appointment, call our Silsbee office at (409) 385-3651. You can also get in touch through our online contact form and one of our team members will get back to you as soon as possible. We look forward to meeting you!
