Last time, we discussed a general overview of dentistry and the different branches within it.  For this blog, we will discuss the dental professional that serves as the backbone of the field of dentistry, your general dentist. 

When most people say they have a dentist appointment, they are most likely referring to a general dentist.  General dentists are basically the jack-of-all-trades of the dental field, and can provide any treatment they see fit under the umbrella of modern dentistry.  Most people see their general dentist for check-ups and cleanings, and other routine dental work, such as fillings, crown and bridgework, tooth whitening, etc.  Many also provide more specialized treatment, such as extractions, root canals, implant dentistry, and so on.  Since they received a basic education in all fields of dentistry, a general dentist can practice as broad or narrow spectrum of dentistry as they see fit.  Many pursue further education and focus on esthetics or implant dentistry.  This diversity makes every general dentist unique, and ultimately benefits all of us, as dental patients.  It allows us a wide variety of choice, and provides everyone the opportunity of finding a dentist in whom we can feel comfortable entrusting our oral health.

Stay tuned for the final installment of this series on dental professionals, in which we will discuss dental specialists.