General Dentist in Appleton

What's a General Dentist?

A general dentist is similar to a primary care physician; both endeavor to maintain your good overall health rather than focusing on one specific area. A family dentist can perform many different general dentistry services that will help you to maintain good oral health and eliminate the need for costly specialized dental procedures. A general dentist usually sees patients of all ages, although some may have pediatric or geriatric dentists in their general dental office. If it's been a while since you've had general dentistry services, then call our Appleton office to schedule an appointment.

Can A General Dentist Near Me Perform All Types of Dental Procedures?

A dentist general practice can perform most types of dentistry that enable you to maintain good, lifelong dental health. They can fill cavities, perform checkups and cleanings, repair damaged or diseased tissues, diagnose and treat the issues that are causing you pain, and recommend procedures to help prevent recurrence of the issue.

Which Services Does General Dentistry Include?

The following are the most common procedures provided in general family dentistry. However, the list isn't all-inclusive:

• Ceramic Crowns: A crown covers the entire surface area of a tooth and is used when a very large filling is needed. Typically, very large fillings don't work well, but a crown can restore functionality and last for decades.
• Dental Bridges: A tooth bridge is a unit of one or more artificial teeth that are attached on either end to an implant or a natural tooth.
• Dental Bonding: A tooth-colored composite resin is applied to one or more damaged teeth and it restores the appearance of them.
• Composite Fillings: Composite fillings are matched to the color of your teeth and are typically used on the front or back teeth.
• Fillings: A dental filling can restore functionality to a tooth that has had a root canal or has been damaged due to trauma or decay.
• Laser Dentistry: Laser dentistry uses heat and light to perform many standard dental procedures and was approved by the FDA in 1990.
• Nitrous Oxide: Also called laughing gas, many dentists use nitrous oxide as a sedative.
• Porcelain Crowns: Porcelain crowns have a more natural appearance and are an upgrade to the ceramic crowns typically used to repair teeth.
• Porcelain Fillings: Porcelain fillings are used for aesthetics on front teeth or to enable maximum chewing pressure for molars.
• Repair & Replacement: When a tooth has been damaged due to trauma or disease, repairing it or replacing it can restore the structural integrity of the face, jawbone, and surrounding teeth.
• Sealants: A sealant is a thin coating that's applied to the back teeth with the intent of deterring the development of cavities.

With What Frequency Should I See a Dentist?

Although there are additional factors that influence your dental visit frequency, such as age and the condition of your oral health, the American Dental Association recommends that you see a dentist at least annually, twice annually is better. For the most personalized advice, ask your dentist how frequently you should schedule an appointment. It's extremely easy to make a dental appointment. Call Apple Town Dental Care at (920) 241-3397, and we'll book a day and time that's convenient for you.

Are Dental Visits Expensive?

The cost of your dental visit will depend on the reason for the appointment, the rates set by your dentist, and any insurance you have. Most insurance plans will pay for some or all dental checkups, but to get the most accurate information, call your plan provider. If you're still unclear after speaking with your provider, then call our Appleton office, and we'll help you.

What's the Procedure for Cleaning My Teeth?

Usually, a dental hygienist will clean your teeth, but first, the dentist and the hygienist will examine your teeth and gums to determine what needs to be done and if there are any worrying sings. If you have plaque or gingivitis, that will be addressed.

• After examining your teeth and determining a course of treatment, if necessary, your cleaning will begin.
• Any plaque or tartar that has accumulated will be removed. This step can only be done by a professional.
• Your hygienist will floss your teeth, making sure to get all the hard to reach places.
• Your teeth will be deep-cleaned with a gritty toothpaste and an electric toothbrush that sounds like a dental drill. After which you will rinse your mouth.
• If you're receiving a fluoride treatment to protect your teeth, that will be applied, and then you're done.

You'll have a fresh, clean feeling in your mouth and know that your teeth and gums are as clean as they can be.

Will My Dental Appointment Last a Long Time?

On average, a dental appointment takes about an hour. However, it can be as little as 30 minutes or as long as several hours. It depends on the procedures that you're having. If you have questions about the amount of time your procedure will take, then call our Appleton office, and we'll gladly answer your question.

What Preparations Should I Make for My Dental Appointment?

Even though there aren't any advance preparations that you'll need to make, a little forethought can expedite your treatment, such as:

• Brush and floss your teeth just before your appointment.
• Be on time or early. If this is your first appointment, allow time to complete the necessary paperwork.
• Bring a list of all your allergies, medical conditions, and medications, both prescription and over-the-counter, and include supplements.
• Bring your insurance card and be familiar with your plan provisions.
• Let us know if you're feeling anxious or nervous about your appointment.

Dental appointments are notorious for causing anxiety among patients, but this isn't necessary. We do our utmost to ensure your comfort from the time you enter the office until the time you leave. We're known throughout the community for our high-quality, affordable dental treatments and the quality of our service, so call us today to schedule an appointment. You'll be glad you did.