Finding the right dentist for you and your family is important. Because your oral health is such an integral part of your overall health, it’s helpful to have a dentist that helps you feel informed, comfortable, and taken care of. Dentistry is often an area that many people are not well-versed in. This is completely understandable as you may wonder what the difference between a family dentist vs general dentist is. Below you will find the differences between the two and which one is right for you.
Family Dentist vs General Dentist
General Dentists
Oftentimes general dentists and family dentists are referred to interchangeably. However, there are subtle differences that are important to note. General dentists go to years of school before they begin practicing. This means they spend four years completing their undergraduate education, in addition to four years in dental school. Some general dentists may only serve a subset of people. For example, they may only see adult patients, which can make it difficult if you have a family.
They are trained to help people maintain their oral hygiene, in addition to providing a wide variety of services. Some of the services include dental cleanings, tooth extraction, crowns, Invisalign, root canals, veneers, dentures, and bonding, to name just a few. General dentists perform general procedures, so if you need something specific, they will often work with a dentist that specializes in whatever treatment is necessary for your unique needs.
Family Dentists
Unlike general dentists, family dentists see people of all ages. There is no minimum age, so the whole family is welcome. This can make it way easier on you and your family as they are a one-stop shop for all things dental-related. Family dentists get just as much education as general dentists, so they are just as qualified to provide services.
One of the main benefits of a family dentist is their ability to work with people of all ages. This can take a lot of patience as children can be uniquely difficult when it comes to the dentist. They often create a warmer and more comforting atmosphere to ensure everyone is comfortable. Family dentistry can be highly beneficial for families as it is not only convenient, but a healthy experience.
Benefits of Family Dentistry
If you have a family, it’s important to get on the same page when it comes to oral health. Research has proven that your oral health is linked to your overall health. In addition, a child’s oral health is directly correlated with their oral health as an adult. This shows the importance of establishing good habits as a family when your children are young.
Choosing a dentist that focuses on family dentistry can help your family achieve this. Scheduling your appointments on the same day can build a healthy relationship between your children, their dentist, and their oral health. You can also keep the motivation going at home by brushing your teeth at the same time and making it a family affair. Establishing these healthy habits at a young age can lead to better health outcomes for your children in the future. Take the time to find the right dentist for you and your family so you can set your children up for success when it comes to their oral health.
Dentist Montclair
If you have recently moved, or if you are looking for a new dentist, contact the Monte Vista Dental Group. They pride themselves on being your neighborhood dentist that cares as they cater to both families and individuals. They provide a wide variety of dental services to meet the needs of your entire family. Contact the best dentist in Montclair today for an appointment!