If you are in the market for a new dentist, you have likely come across a bevy of phrases and terminology describing the various dental practices you have found. One of the most common among these descriptors is “family dentist” – and you may be left wondering just exactly what that means. The most important thing to know right off the bat is that you do not need to be married, have children or be a child yourself to receive great care and have a wonderful experience at the right family dentist. It just means that their office is trained to provide oral care and dentistry services to people of all ages and varying needs. The term “family dentistry” is not about family structure but rather the level of inclusivity that can be found there for all.
One of the biggest advantages of choosing a family dental practice is the variety of services offered. Since family dentists are adept at providing care at every stage of life, from children to those in their golden years, they have experience in a wide range of cases and treatment options since people’s needs change based on age and circumstances. When you choose an expert family dentist, you will have peace of mind knowing that you will not need to find a new office if you experience changes with your teeth, gums or dental health in general.
Unfortunately, not every practice that claims to offer family dentistry has the expertise to offer truly comprehensive services. When looking for a family dentist, make sure they offer the following specialties:
General Dentistry
This term primarily covers preventative dentistry and routine maintenance such as examinations, X-rays, professional cleanings and patient education. A more experienced general family dentist may also offer services like TMJ therapy and tooth extractions, so finding an option with all of these offerings will be most beneficial to you.
Cosmetic Dentistry
This specialty includes treatments that improve the appearance of your teeth, such as teeth whitening, porcelain veneers, sealants, composite resin bonding and gum contouring. In addition to improving your smile’s aesthetic, many cosmetic treatments also offer inherent health benefits.
Restorative Dentistry
This category includes procedures that restore or repair teeth, whether that be from wear, damage, injury or decay. It includes dental implants, fillings, crowns, bridges and dentures. Finding a family dentist offering restorative dentistry is important because you’ll know you will be covered in the event of an injury or unforeseen tooth complication.
Pediatric Dentistry
This specialty is designed for children and adolescents. A family dentist is a great option vs. a pediatric dentist because the entire family can have all of their appointments at the same office which is convenient and can put children at ease. Even if you do not have children yourself, providing treatment for young people requires skill and precision, so a dentist trained in pediatric dentistry likely has extensive training and a steady hand.
If this type of practice sounds like it would be a good fit for you and you wish to learn more about a Broomfield family dentist, call Petersen Family Dentistry today at (720) 308-9798 or contact us online .
