General Dentist in
Rockland County NY

Exams

First, the dentist will thoroughly examine your teeth top to bottom, front and back, in an effort to spot any existing or potential problems that need attention. For a deeper look, the dentist may order x-rays or other imaging of your teeth and gums. Examinations are routine and should be part of any oral healthcare plan. Ideally, patients should schedule a check-up every six months or at least once a year.

Teeth Cleanings

One of the best ways to prevent oral health problems is teeth cleanings. A general dentist can clean your teeth better than you can because they can see and reach all the nooks and crannies you likely miss with your toothbrush. Special tools efficiently remove plaque from the surface of your teeth. By the time you leave our office, your teeth will feel smooth and clean. Be sure to schedule a cleaning every six months.

Sealants

An innovative preventative measure is the use of dental sealants. A dental sealant is a special coating material that provides a shell of protection around baby teeth to prevent cavities and tooth decay. Studies show that dental sealants significantly reduce the development of cavities in children, which saves parents money since they won’t have to spend it on cavity fillings. If you have children, ask your general dentist about dental sealants.

Restoration

Restorative treatment is all about restoring your oral health. Maybe you have some missing teeth. Or perhaps you have a cavity. A general dentist can fix these problems so you can get back to smiling and feeling healthy.

Fillings

If you have a cavity, you’ll need a filling. A cavity is a small hole in your tooth as the result of tooth decay. The dentist will remove the decay and then fill it with a moldable material that will fit perfectly in the cavity. Your tooth should not feel any different than normal.

Tooth Extraction

If a tooth is no longer healthy enough to remain in your mouth, removal becomes necessary. A general dentist will only extract a tooth when absolutely necessary. To achieve this, the dentist uses a tool known as an elevator to loosen the tooth before using forceps to pull it out. The patient will be given a local anesthetic prior to the procedure so they will not feel pain or discomfort. 

Dentures

For those who are missing multiple teeth, a partial or full set of dentures can be made just for them. Dentures are removable prosthetic devices featuring artificial teeth typically made of acrylic resin or porcelain if you so choose. However, acrylic resin dentures are stronger.

Crowns

Dental crowns are caps that a general dentist places over a tooth to protect it from further damage. They are made of metal, porcelain, resin, or ceramic and also serve as the top of a dental implant to replace a missing tooth.

Cosmetic

Cosmetic dental services improve the appearance of a patient’s smile. Dental insurance usually does not cover cosmetic procedures unless there is a medical purpose. However, cosmetic and restorative treatments do frequently crossover.

Teeth Whitening

One way to improve the appearance of your teeth is to undergo a teeth whitening session. In-office teeth whitening involves covering your teeth with a special bleaching gel containing hydrogen peroxide. Some treatments involve using a special light to activate whitening agents. More than one session may be necessary to achieve the shade of white you desire.

Bonding

Also known as inlays and onlays, a general dentist uses a filling material to seal damage on the surface of a tooth. 

Veneers

Veneers are thin shells that cover the front of teeth to improve their appearance by changing a tooth’s color, shape, and size.