General Dentistry in Mission Viejo
Exceptional Care for Routine Treatments
General dentistry comprises the treatments that form the foundation of lifelong oral health. From cleanings to cavities, our general dentistry services in Mission Viejo keep your smile healthy before any problems can worsen. Dr. Barnar and his team provide general dental care for patients and families across the Mission Viejo area.
What Is General Dentistry?
If you have been to a dentist before, you likely have had general dental care. General dentistry is the suite of treatments that addresses the early stages of any oral health concerns. It has three main focuses:- Preventing dental issues
- Diagnosing dental issues
- Treating dental issues
The Turquoise Dental team offers a suite of general dentistry treatments, including:
Routine Checkups & Exams
Most patients benefit most from visiting the dentist every 6 months for a routine checkup. Depending on your oral health history, this can be as simple as a physical exam of your teeth. Attending routine checkups is essential for catching dental issues early on. Without routine exams, many issues may worsen well before they present symptoms. By the time you notice something, the issue could require extensive treatment.
Teeth Cleanings
Professional dental cleanings every 6 months help break up the plaque and tartar that contribute to oral health issues. Even if you brush thoroughly, gradual buildup can still happen. Our dental hygienists use advanced tools to deliver an effective yet comfortable cleaning experience. Patients with active gum disease or health issues may need more frequent cleanings. For example, cleanings every 3 months are common for patients with gum disease.X-rays
Not every exam will require dental X-rays, but we recommend them at least once every 1 to 2 years. The frequency will depend on your current oral health. Oral X-rays are very safe, quick, and painless. Yet they provide highly useful imaging for diagnosing issues and planning potential treatments.
Restorations
Dental fillings are the most common restoration we provide. We also offer root canals, but this treatment is reserved for more severe cases. Other restorations can be more involved, including options like crowns, inlays, onlays, and bridges.
We always start with the most conservative restoration possible. Ideally, this means only a dental filling. However, we can provide whatever care your smile may need.
General Dentistry FAQs
Dental insurance plans should provide coverage for most treatments that fit under the general dentistry umbrella. These treatments are directly tied to your health, so plans offer coverage. Keep in mind that the amount of coverage will vary based on plan details. Our patient care team gladly works with you to help you understand your plan details and care costs.
The general rule is one visit every 6 months. However, the frequency can vary based on your current oral health. For example, patients with active gum disease may need more frequent visits. Patients with excellent oral health may need fewer.
Aside from your 6-monthcheckupss, you should visit a dentist anytime you notice concerning symptoms. Symptoms that warrant a visit for general dentistry include:
- Tooth discoloration or other visible changes
- Tooth pain or sensitivity
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Persistent bad breath
- Mouth sores that won’t heal
Yes! As a family dentist, Dr. Barnar provides care to kids, teens, and adults all at one location. We gladly can schedule family appointments to see multiple family members in a single day.
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommendations conclude that a child’s first dental visit by age 1 year or within 6 months of the first tooth erupting. However, we are not a pediatric dentist. Very early oral care is best handled by a pediatric dental specialist.
