General dentists are primary dental providers who diagnose, treat, and provide preventative oral health care measures. These dentists offer their services to patients of all ages and work with other dentists to treat teeth and gum conditions that require specialized services. General dentists makeup 79% of dentists in the United States, and work in various settings to provide their services. Some work in government programs, cooperate in group practices, and some own their practice. The degree of education required to become a general dentist makes general dentists a valuable part of dental care. Let’s learn about general dentists, what makes them unique, and how they can help you with your oral care.
Education and Requirements
To become a general dentist, a person would need three or more years of undergraduate education, preferably with a strong science foundation, and four years of dental school to meet the minimum requirements. To go into more detail, students in undergraduate school would need to study classes in biology, psychology, physics, chemistry, mathematics, and physiology. After undergraduate school, students would need to take a Dental Admission Test or DAT for entrance into a dental school. This test would detail questions that would apply to basic understandings of the teeth, jawbone, and gums that would apply in treatment and reconstruction areas.
Once accepted into dental school, aspiring dentists would need to take science classes in anatomy, biochemistry, microbiology, and pharmacology and then expand to learn into dental and oral anatomy. During these four years, students would also gain experience in hospitals and emergencies and explore different dentistry areas to hone in their focus for future careers. These dentists will also earn degrees, such as Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) and Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD). General dentists will focus on treating generalized dental patients for improving their oral health and have the option of expanding their education later on in life.
The Life of a General Dentist
General dentists provide a valuable role for people in need of oral care by providing a wide range of treatments. They’ll take responsibility for you and your family’s overall oral health through scheduling cleanings, dental x-rays, examinations, and dental treatments. They ensure medications before visits, additional preparations for extensive procedures and surgeries, and schedule follow-up treatments. General dentists also work with a hygienist for x-rays, treating gum disease, and regular cleanings. To help patients receive quality dental care, general dentists perform the following procedures:
- Porcelain crowns
- Dental fillings
- Porcelain Veneers
- Dental bridges
- Tooth extractions
- Bone grafts
- Gum surgery
- Invisalign treatment
- Teeth whitening
- Dental implants
- Dental sealants
- Botox treatment for TMJ disorder and migraines
- Root canal treatment
- Nightguards
- Mouthguards
- Partial and full dentures
To learn more about what a general dentist can do for you, contact Dr. Channo, a dentist specializing in implants and orthodontics, and provides progressive, caring treatment for his patients. Visit Channo DDS in Rochester Hills, MI, to schedule an appointment today and receive quality dental care today.