General dentistry is a type of dental care in which we evaluate, diagnose, and treat our patients’ dental concerns. Routine dental appointments are essential to general dentistry in our Baltimore, MD office. During these appointments, we offer dental cleanings, fillings, sealants, and fluoride treatment.

Our general dental services are also preventative. Preventive dentistry can prevent common dental problems such as gum disease, tooth decay, and cavities. By scheduling regular visits at one of our offices, you can keep oral health issues at bay.

Choose Horizon Family Dental Care

Our offices’ dentists are dedicated to each patient’s comfort. Along with our dental hygienists and office staff, our dentists want you to keep your teeth and gums healthy. Regular visits are a part of general and preventive dentistry.

At Horizon Family Dental Care, we provide comprehensive dental care, including:

• Dental Cleanings
• Digital X-rays
• Gum Disease Screening
• Oral Cancer Screening
• Cavity Screening

After routine cleanings, we also provide fluoride treatment and sealants for children to stop tooth cavities. Cavities are a common dental problem in children. Regular visits and at-home care can prevent the need for fillings or restorative care later in life.

In addition, if we discover you have a dental problem, we can begin a treatment plan. You may also visit our office with questions about any emerging dental concerns. As soon as you notice a change in your health, schedule a visit.

General Dentistry in Baltimore, MD

In addition to regular dental visits, our office provides general dental services. General dental care helps keep the teeth and gums healthy and prevents harmful infections and dental injuries. Our common general dentistry services include:

Custom Mouthguard

Do you or a loved one play contact sports like lacrosse, basketball, or soccer? You need a sports mouthguard. Mouthguards help protect the teeth and gums from injury or damage during sports. A professional mouthguard that fits comfortably and properly in the mouth. It also makes it easier for athletes to communicate with their teammates.

Emergency Dentistry

Please call us in the event of a dental emergency. We can provide treatment for you as soon as possible. Some of the most common emergencies we treat include:

• Lost permanent teeth
• Broken or damaged teeth and restorations
• Excessive bleeding
• Toothaches

We want our patients to know that we are here for them to provide immediate treatment.

Family Dentistry

As a family dentist, we can see multiple members of your family under one roof. We help patients of all ages receive the oral health care they need. Our team can also help patients learn the best methods of caring for their child’s smile.

Root Canals

A root canal is a dental procedure that removes infected dental pulp. The pulp is made up of vessels and nerves inside of a tooth. If bacteria infect the pulp, it means the tooth is dead. However, we can save the tooth with a root canal.

During treatment, we clean the inside of the tooth, called the chamber. Then, we seal the chamber to lessen the chance of reinfection. We also provide dental crowns to strengthen teeth after root canal therapy.

Sedation Dentistry

Dental sedation is a treatment method that calms and relaxes patients for dental procedures. Nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, is a common option we use for oral health treatments.

This dental tool is safe for patients of all ages. We can safely control the amount of sedation you receive and administer it based on your age, weight, and size.

Tooth Extractions

Patients often need tooth extractions for severely infected, overcrowded, or impacted teeth. When we remove these teeth, it can create a healthier and more comfortable smile.

We ensure comfortable tooth extraction treatments with anesthesia and sedation if needed. The extraction will also relieve painful symptoms. Following a tooth extraction, we can provide dental restorations if you need a replacement tooth or teeth.

General Dentistry FAQs

Learn answers to commonly asked questions about general dentistry in Baltimore, MD, below:

How often should I visit the dentist?

Most people should visit the dentist every six months for a cleaning and exam. These routine visits help catch problems like cavities and gum disease early, before they become more serious. Some patients with specific needs, such as gum disease or a history of frequent cavities, may need more frequent visits. We can recommend a schedule that works best for your oral health.

What happens during a dental exam?

During a dental exam, we will check your teeth, gums, tongue, and mouth for signs of problems like cavities, gum disease, or oral cancer. X-rays may be taken to look for issues beneath the surface. The dentist will also review your oral hygiene habits and discuss any concerns you may have. This appointment is key to preventing more serious dental issues.

Why are dental cleanings important?

Professional cleanings remove plaque and tartar that regular brushing and flossing can’t reach. Plaque buildup can lead to tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath. Cleanings also polish your teeth and leave your mouth feeling fresh. Regular cleanings help keep your smile healthy and reduce your risk of dental problems.

Are dental X-rays safe?

Dental X-rays use very low radiation levels and are considered safe for most patients. They allow your dentist to see problems that aren’t visible during a visual exam, such as cavities between teeth or issues below the gumline. Lead aprons and modern digital technology further reduce radiation exposure. If you’re pregnant or have concerns, discuss them with your dentist.

What is fluoride, and why is it important?

Fluoride is a natural mineral that helps strengthen tooth enamel and prevent cavities. Many communities add fluoride to their drinking water, and it’s also found in most toothpastes. Dentists may apply professional fluoride treatments during cleanings, especially for children or those at higher risk of decay. Using fluoride regularly is a safe and effective way to protect your teeth.

Why do I need dental exams even if my teeth feel fine?

Dental problems like cavities, gum disease, and oral cancer can develop without noticeable symptoms. Regular exams help catch these issues early, when treatment is more straightforward and effective. Preventive care also enables you to avoid more costly and complex procedures. Even if you feel fine, regular checkups are key to staying healthy.

Request a Dental Appointment

Get preventative, general dental care at one of our dental offices. We serve Baltimore, La Plata, Clinton, and Hanover, Maryland. You can schedule an appointment with us on our website.

If you have any questions, please let us know. We look forward to seeing you at your next dental visit.