Pros and Cons of a General Family Dentist

General family dentists can perform x-rays, exams, routine cleanings and a variety of treatments such as tooth extractions, professional teeth whitening, veneers, crowns, and bridges.If you’re considering visiting a general family dentist for all of your oral needs, you may be wondering about their pros and cons. You’re in luck because we’ve clearly outlined them below.

Pros

A One-Stop-Shop

If you lead a busy life, a general dentist may be ideal because of the wide range of services they provide. You can count on them for a routine exam and cleaning and also visit their office for a cosmetic or restorative procedure. With a highly trained and experienced general family dentist, you don’t have to deal with the inconvenience of seeing various doctors.

A Close Relationship

A general dentist will take the time to get to know your personality and unique oral needs. As you visit their office every six months or so, you’ll begin to develop a bond with them. You’ll find that they treat you like a friend they know well rather than a patient they’ve just met. Additionally, if you visit the same general dentist during every stage of your life, they’ll know your history and be able to make the best recommendations as a result.

Ideal for the Entire Family

If you’re a busy parent, you can schedule back to back appointments for every member of your family at the same general dentist. You don’t have to drive around town and take your children to a different dentist than you.

Cons

Lack of Specialization

The major con of general dentists is that they have a generalized education and are experienced in a wide range of procedures. Therefore, if you have a very specific problem such as gum disease, you may be better off seeing a specialized provider such as a periodontist. If your child’s crooked teeth need to be straightened, it may make more sense to take them to an orthodontist.

While general dentists are great, there are times where you may find it more valuable to see a specialized doctor.