General dentistry serves as the foundation of oral health care. Our patients can benefit from a wide range of dental services designed to maintain and improve oral health. General dentistry focuses on preventive dental care, which includes teeth cleanings and dental exams, to ensure patients maintain healthy teeth and gums. By addressing both routine and complex dental needs, general dentists help patients achieve optimal oral health and prevent future dental problems.
At Canatella Dental, we strive to offer the best possible patient experience so that your dental care is something to look forward to. Our staff pampers our patients and works with anxious patients so that they can relax and feel confident when they visit our office. We believe that everyone deserves to enjoy the benefits of a healthy smile.
Benefits of Preventive Dental Care
Preventive dental care stands as the cornerstone of general dentistry. Dr. Canatella emphasizes the importance of regular check-ups and cleanings to prevent dental issues before they arise. Canatella Dental offers comprehensive preventive services, including:
- Custom Mouthguard
- Family Dentistry
- Periodontal Disease Treatment
- Sedation Dentistry
- TMJ Treatment
- Teeth cleanings
- Dental exams
- Fluoride treatments
- Sealants
- Oral cancer screenings
Teeth cleanings and dental exams serve as the primary components of preventive care. Fluoride treatments strengthen tooth enamel, making teeth more resistant to decay. Sealants, typically applied to the chewing surfaces of molars, provide an additional layer of protection against cavities. Oral cancer screenings detect early signs of cancer, allowing for prompt treatment and better outcomes. Incorporating these preventive measures can help patients maintain healthy smiles and avoid more serious dental issues.
Teeth Cleanings
Teeth cleanings play a crucial role in maintaining oral health. During a cleaning, a dental hygienist removes plaque and tartar that regular brushing and flossing cannot eliminate. Our practice uses advanced tools and techniques to ensure thorough cleanings. Patients who schedule regular cleanings reduce their risk of developing cavities, gum disease, and other dental issues.
Dental hygienists typically begin the cleaning process by using a scaler to remove plaque and tartar from the teeth. They then use a high-powered electric brush and gritty toothpaste to polish the teeth, removing any remaining debris and surface stains. Finally, the hygienist flosses the teeth to ensure that all areas between the teeth are clean. This comprehensive approach to teeth cleaning helps maintain oral health and contributes to a brighter, more attractive smile.
Dental Exams
Dental exams provide a comprehensive evaluation of a patient’s oral health. Dentists in New Orleans conduct thorough examinations to detect early signs of dental problems. These exams often include:
- Visual inspection of teeth and gums
- X-rays to identify hidden issues
- Assessment of bite and jaw alignment
- Evaluation of existing dental work
During a visual inspection, the dentist examines the teeth and gums for signs of decay, gum disease, and other issues. X-rays allow the dentist to see beneath the surface, identifying problems such as cavities, impacted teeth, and bone loss. Assessing bite and jaw alignment helps the dentist determine if the patient has any issues with their bite that may require orthodontic treatment.
Evaluating existing dental work ensures that fillings, crowns, and other restorations remain in good condition. Regular dental exams allow dentists to address minor issues before they become major problems. Early detection and treatment save patients from more extensive and costly procedures in the future.
Emergency Dental Care
Dental emergencies can occur at any time. We offer emergency dental care to address urgent issues such as tooth damage, a knocked-out tooth, or sudden pain and discomfort in the mouth. Prompt treatment of dental emergencies prevents further complications and alleviates pain.
Our office makes every effort to prioritize emergency cases, providing immediate care to relieve discomfort and address the underlying issue. In many cases, timely intervention can save a damaged tooth or prevent an infection from spreading. Emergency dental care ensures that patients receive the necessary treatment when they need it most, helping them return to their normal activities as quickly as possible.