General Dentist Downey, CA
A general dentist is a trusted partner in oral health care in the same way a general practitioner helps individuals maintain overall physical health. Many dental patients make finding a knowledgeable dentist who makes them feel comfortable a high priority. A general dentist is a well-informed professional who provides the regular cleanings and routine maintenance necessary to keep smiles bright, clean, and healthy.
A general dentist is available at Amir Sanjabi Dental in Downey and the surrounding area. Generalists are the main oral health care providers of people of all ages. While general dentists are highly educated and trained in multiple dental procedures, there are certain services they may not provide. For these services, a dentist may refer the patient to a specialty dentist. We take your concerns seriously and strive to provide trustworthy dental care. Contact Amir Sanjabi Dental today at (562) 399-9243 to schedule an initial patient consultation.
Differences Between DDS and DDM
Finding the right general dentist is just as important as finding the right general physician. Clients need to feel comfortable enough with the professional to express their wants and concerns while trusting the dentist completely for the care of their teeth. A general dentist is much like a primary care dentist who can provide all the essential needs of standard oral health care. During your search for a general dentist, you are bound to come across two standard abbreviations: DDS and DDM. What are the differences between the two? Is one more qualified than the other? The short answer is no.
According to the American Dental Association, the only difference between a DDS and DDM is a single letter. DDS stands for Doctor of Dental Surgery, while DDM stands for Doctor of Dental Medicine. Both types of dentists complete the same curriculum and receive the same education. That education generally includes three or more years of undergraduate study plus four years of dental school. State licensing boards regard both degrees as equal, and both degrees allow individuals to practice within the scope of general dentistry.
“…the only difference between a DDS and DDM is a single letter. DDS stands for Doctor of Dental Surgery, while DDM stands for Doctor of Dental Medicine.”
Types of Services the General Dentist Performs
Unlike dental specialists who focus on a particular aspect of dentistry, general dentists provide a range of services that are vital to continued health. According to WebMD, these general dental practitioners provide primary dental care to diagnose, treat, and meet patients' oral health needs. Most of the care that general dentists provide is preventative.
Preventative care is key to helping patients maintain oral health and may include routine dental check-ups and education on proper oral hygiene techniques and nutrition. General dentists may also offer certain restorative services to fix damaged or decayed teeth and restore their function. Some cosmetic treatments may also be available to improve the appearance of a smile. Patients should contact our team to learn about our available services.
“Preventative care is key to helping patients maintain oral health and may include services such as routine dental check-ups and education on proper oral hygiene techniques and nutrition.”
General Dentistry for Children
For many families, having one dental provider is more convenient than trying to manage multiple appointments with different offices. However, some may wonder if a child is ready to see the family dentist. The reality is that a general dentist is just as qualified to treat young patients as well as adult patients. Families who want to streamline their schedules by assigning everyone the same dentist can do so with peace of mind.
However, bear in mind that children are less receptive to oral health treatment than adults. To ensure the child has a positive experience at the dentist's office, look for a practitioner with years of experience working with children. Though the office does not need to cater directly to children, it should offer a kid-friendly space in the waiting room and kid-centric accessories, such as X-ray aprons, dental goodie bags, and perhaps a kid-friendly exam room if space allows.
“The reality is that a general dentist is just as qualified to treat young patients as well as adult patients.”
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Paying for Dental Treatments With Insurance
Dental insurance plans are designed to reduce the total cost of general dental care but not cover it entirely. Typically, the carrier will negotiate for a reduced fee with an in-network provider and then cover a portion of that lower fee. The patient is responsible for the remainder of the bill. Below is a brief savings breakdown when using dental insurance:
- Basic: Most carriers cover 80% of the cost of basic dental restoration services. Such services include simple extractions and fillings. They also may include deep cleanings.
- Preventative: Carriers usually cover 100% of uncomplicated preventative dental health services. Preventative care includes regular checkups. Routine cleanings and bitewing X-rays also fall under this category.
- Major: Some dental plans will cover as much as 50% of major and necessary dental procedures. Some examples are bridges, crowns, and root canals. Some plans may also pay a portion of denture costs.
Before scheduling treatment, talk to the dentist and plan provider. Make sure that the desired service is covered on both ends.
“Dental insurance plans are designed to reduce the total cost of general dental care but not cover it entirely.”
Questions Answered on This Page
Q. What services does a general dentist provide?
Q. When will a general dentist refer someone to a specialist?
Q. What is the difference between a DDS and DDM?
Q. How does a general dentist cater to children?
Q. How much dental treatment is covered by insurance?
People Also Ask
Q. Why is routine dental care important?
Q. Why do I need my wisdom teeth or other teeth removed?
Q. What kind of pain can be addressed by a root canal treatment?
Referrals From a General Dentist
General dentists receive comprehensive training for a range of treatments. However, they do not have the experience or training to treat more specialized dental problems. Even if a general dentist cannot treat the issue directly, they can still help diagnose a patient and refer them to the appropriate dental professional. Some problems that may require a referral include:
- Crooked teeth
- Gum disease
- Jaw misalignment
- Root canals
- Tooth replacement
“Even if a general dentist cannot treat the issue directly, they can still help diagnose a patient and refer them to the appropriate dental professional.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Why do individuals need to visit a general dentist?
A. Regular dental visits are vital for both oral health and overall physical health. Routine dental care helps prevent tooth decay, protects against gum disease, and creates the foundation for a strong, healthy smile that will last. It also protects against bad breath and helps maintain good oral hygiene.
Q. How can patients overcome apprehension about general dentist visits?
A. Dental phobia is completely normal. In fact, it is estimated that nearly 75% of adults in the US live with this anxiety. Dentists are aware of this issue and have developed techniques to help patients feel more confident during visits. Your comfort is our top priority, so if you feel even the slightest discomfort, let our practitioners know. We will always take additional measures to make you feel more at home.
Q. When should parents take children to the general dentist?
A. You will want to schedule your children's dental visits every six months just as you do the adults in the family. Set a positive tone for your children and help them look forward to dental appointments. Make sure to choose a kid-friendly dentist with experience treating children.
Q. Do people still need to visit the general dentist if their teeth feel fine?
A. Yes, individuals should maintain biannual dental visits even when teeth feel fine. Unfortunately, teeth or gums may develop issues without patient awareness, but a trained professional can spot these problems right away. In addition, regular dental visits keep teeth looking white, healthy and beautiful.
Q. Why does a general dentist recommend flossing?
A. Brushing is not enough. Flossing helps to remove the minuscule particles between the teeth where the bristles of the toothbrush cannot reach. Without flossing, plaque can remain between the teeth, which can eventually develop into tartar.
Q. What can patients do to prevent cavities between visits to the general dentist?
A. For starters, brush and floss at least twice a day. Keep sugar to a minimum and be wary of sticky foods that can remain on teeth for long periods of time, such as peanut butter and bananas. Rinse the mouth with water after eating to help remove food from the teeth and chew sugarless gum.
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Dental Terminology
Call Us Today
A general dentist offers comprehensive dental care to maintain healthy teeth at any age. Our team at Amir Sanjabi Dental can provide you with the dental care you deserve. Call us today at 562-399-9243 to schedule an appointment or learn more about our services.
Helpful Related Links
- American Dental Association (ADA). Glossary of Dental Clinical Terms. 2024
- American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry® (AACD). Home Page. 2024
- WebMD. WebMD’s Oral Care Guide. 2024
About our business, license, and website security
- Amir Sanjabi Dental was established in 2018.
- We accept the following payment methods: American Express, Cash, Check, Discover, MasterCard, and Visa
- We serve patients from the following counties: Los Angeles County
- We serve patients from the following cities: Downey, South Gate, Paramount, Bellflower, Norwalk, Santa Fe Springs, Bell Gardens, Lynwood, Pico Rivera and Whittier
- CA (License #100612). View License Information and Specifics
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