Dentistry is the practice of providing services related to the maintenance of tooth health and oral hygiene. In this aspect, family dentistry is identical to general dentistry. However, there are differences between family dentistry and general dentistry.
Most dentists generally restrict their practice to a certain age group or a certain speciality. Pedodontists for instance concern themselves solely with the provision of treatment of dental problems faced by young children. To the contrary, family dentists invariably provide dental care for a wide variety of patients, ranging from extremely young children to much older adults. Family dentists ensure that tooth decay is eliminated, build-up of plaque around the teeth is minimised, and dental cavities are properly filled and that the gums are kept healthy.
Both general dentistry and family dentistry are generally perceived as preventive action since they are generally considered as the primary defence against any oral abnormality. At the least, two checkups a year with the family dentist are recommended by the American Dental Association. During such checkups, the dentist provides deep or routine cleanings which help in eliminating build-up of plaque and preventing the decay of tooth. Another procedure, which aids the prevention of tooth decay, is fluoride treatment which may be given to the patient if deemed necessary by the dentist. As with any other medical field, preventive dental checkups also help in the detection of problems with the dental health of the patient much before any visible symptoms arise.
At times, the dentist may take radiographs in order to detect the presence of cavities and various other problems related to the teeth and jaws. When a cavity is detected, the family dentist usually provides treatment, which generally is a simple dental filling. This prevents the cavity from developing into an even more serious problem which may require more advanced treatment such as dental implants, root canal, crown or any other restorative dental procedure.
The education of a family dentist generally consists of an undergraduate degree. Upon the successful completion of the undergraduate degree and the Dental Admission Test, a prospective dentist is required to complete a three year program in a dental school. This program provides them with general dental knowledge. After obtaining a dental license, a majority of dentists immediately setup a dental practice as a general or family dentist. Some, however, pursue a postgraduate training in a particular dental speciality. Since the dentist must pass an extremely tough certification exam, you can rest assured that your family dentist knows what he is doing.
Traditionally, family dentists were typically associated with only restorative and preventive dentistry. However with the recent improvements in the field of cosmetic dentistry and its associated rise in popularity, most family dentists undergo additional training which enables them to provide cosmetic dental services as well. Such dentists are referred as cosmetic and family dentists.
Typical family dentists do not possess as much training as cosmetic and
family dentists. Though they are specialized, they may sometimes refer
to more experienced or expert dentists in a particular field of dental
health, if they find it necessary.