Frequently Asked Questions About General Dentistry
Comprehensive oral healthcare is a necessity when it comes to your overall well-being. A general dentist makes it their goal to prevent and treat any and all oral health issues. The Nordhus Dentistry team is here to provide the communities of Wichita and West Wichita, KS with experienced and professional service.
We believe in educating our patients on how to best look after their oral health, so our team is happy to answer frequently asked questions about general dentistry. Here are some common questions we hear from patients.
Why is general dentistry important?
General dentistry is an important part of the prevention and early detection of tooth decay, gum disease, oral cancer, and other oral health issues. Routine exams and cleanings help spot and eliminate trouble early so you don’t have to deal with more expensive treatments in the future.
What does a general dentist do?
Your general dentist acts as your main dental care provider. They manage your overall oral healthcare by providing you with services that help maintain your current health and prevent problems down the road.
Some of the general dentistry services we provide at Nordhus Dentistry include:
- Comprehensive exams
- Teeth cleaning
- Extractions
- Fillings
- Periodontal therapy
Comprehensive dental exams also check for oral cancer which is most effectively treated when caught early.
What is a good oral health routine?
An excess of bad bacteria in your mouth mixes with the protein in your saliva to form plaque. Plaque build-up causes issues like cavities and gum disease, so a good oral healthcare routine is essential for preventing dental problems.
To eliminate plaque, brush your teeth at least twice a day (once in the morning and once at night) and floss daily. When selecting a toothpaste, make sure to choose one with fluoride since this has been shown to prevent cavities. You can also look for toothpaste that’s been approved by the American Dental Association to guarantee it is safe and effective.
How often should I visit the dentist?
We recommend visiting the dentist for a routine exam every six months. You may need to visit more often if you have periodontal disease or severe tooth decay. Such issues need additional treatment or need to be monitored.
When should my child first visit the dentist?
You should schedule an exam for your child as soon as their first tooth erupts, and no later than their first birthday.
How can I improve my smile?
If you have crooked or missing teeth, there is no need to worry. There are a number of ways to improve your smile. At Nordhus Dentistry, we offer several treatment options to give you the beautiful smile you deserve.
Tooth loss is a common problem for many adults. Dental implants paired with a dental crown, bridge, or denture can help fill in the gaps from missing teeth. This can improve your overall oral health by providing support to your jawbone and eliminating the risk of bacterial build-up in the spaces left behind by tooth loss.
Crooked or misaligned teeth can be hard to clean, increasing the chances that you’ll suffer from tooth decay or gum disease. Invisalign® treatment can help correct a crooked smile, restore your oral health, and bring back your confidence.
Visit Us for General Dentistry
With over 15 years of dental experience, Dr. Byron J. Nordhus can provide you and your family with comprehensive dentistry that meets all of your needs. Make an appointment online or call us in Wichita, KS, at (316) 721-6730.
