Greater Essex Dental provides general and family dentistry services in Merrimac, MA.
To learn more or make an appointment, call our office at 978-346-4610.
What Is General Dentistry?
General dentistry covers many of the essential services provided by a dental practice. General dentistry often focuses on preventive and diagnostic care, including cleaning, exams, X-rays, and teeth whitening. We offer services to all family members, including children.
Benefits of General Dentistry
- Improves oral and overall health by removing sources of inflammation
- Ensures that you can keep your teeth for as long as possible
- Improves the appearance of your smile
- Restores your teeth to their full functional abilities
Procedures Offered
Comprehensive Oral Exams
A comprehensive oral exam helps the dentist detect the early signs of cancer and other severe diseases of the mouth, head, neck, and throat. An exam also allows the dentist to understand the current state of your oral health and plan the best course of treatment.
Cleaning
Dental cleanings are a must for optimal oral health. Cleanings remove plaque and tartar, lowering your chances of developing dental decay or gum disease. The frequency of cleanings depends on your current gum health status, and will be determined by the doctor at the time of the initial exam.
Digital Dentistry
Our practice uses highly advanced digital X-rays to gain a complete understanding of your oral health. Digital X-rays provide a better picture of your teeth with lower radiation levels than the film X-rays of the past. They are easy to share with patients and specialists.
The CBCT (Cone Beam Computed Tomography) scanner provides greater detail with very low radiation. The system provides diagnostic information with pinpoint accuracy and helps to plan safe implant surgeries, among other procedures.
Fillings
When you have existing dental decay, you should address it as soon as possible. We use composite fillings to create a seamless look while protecting patients from further tooth damage. Prompt treatment can help to prevent root canals, crowns, and extractions.
Same-Day Crowns
The CEREC system allows for teeth that have been prepped for crowns to be scanned within 2-3min, creating digital models of teeth. With those models, crowns can be designed and milled within 15-20 minutes, allowing for patients to have a brand new, permanent crown placed within a one hour appointment.
Teeth Whitening
Many patients are dissatisfied with the appearance of their teeth. Teeth naturally become yellow or discolored over time, and they can age a person's appearance. Staining can also happen due to certain foods, beverages, and smoking. Our office provides in-home whitening trays and gel to brighten your smile.
Why Choose Greater Essex Dentistry?
Our office provides a full menu of dental services in a friendly, welcoming environment. All family members can visit the same dental practice, leading to close relationships and better communication. We make use of the newest dental technologies, and we use only the best quality materials.
Frequently Asked Questions About General and Family Dentistry
Why are biannual dental cleanings and exams so important?
Dental cleanings and exams are the backbones of oral health. Taking care of plaque can lessen the chance of tooth decay. Removing tartar helps to prevent gum disease, a severe condition that can eventually lead to tooth loss. In addition to the essential benefits of cleaning, a comprehensive oral exam can catch severe diseases like oral cancer before they are challenging to treat.
What is the connection between oral and overall health?
When a patient is in poor oral health, they often have inflammation stemming from constant infection in the mouth. This inflammation has been found to cause heart disease, diabetes, stroke, and preterm birth, among other conditions.
Is the CBCT scanner safe?
The CBCT scanner is a safe diagnostic tool. It uses only a tiny fraction of radiation compared to old film X-rays. Its intricate level of detail allows accurate diagnosis and treatment.
Call Greater Essex Dental
If you or your family member needs a general dentist, we will be happy to make an appointment for an initial exam. We can help you improve your oral health and increase your satisfaction with your smile. Please call our office at 978-346-4610.