Understanding General Dentistry

When most people think of going to the dentist, they’re thinking about general dentistry—and for good reason. General dentistry in Topsham ME and Biddeford ME is the foundation of great oral health. At Gentle Dental, we focus on prevention, early detection, and personalized care that keeps your teeth and gums in top shape year-round.
Whether you’re due for a check-up or have a specific concern, our goal is simple: to keep your smile strong, healthy, and confident—for life.
What Is General Dentistry?
General dentistry covers the everyday dental care most people need to maintain a healthy mouth. It’s all about preventing problems before they start, catching small issues early, and treating concerns quickly and comfortably when they arise.
Think of your general dentist as your smile’s primary care provider—your go-to partner for everything from cleanings and exams to fillings, gum care, and more.
Why General Dental Care Matters
Your mouth is the gateway to your body. That means what happens in your mouth can impact your overall health. Cavities, gum disease, and even bad breath can be signs of deeper issues—or lead to bigger problems if left untreated.
Here’s what routine general dentistry helps prevent:
- Tooth decay and cavities
- Gum disease (gingivitis and periodontitis)
- Tooth loss
- Oral infections and inflammation
- Costly or complex dental treatments down the road
A little prevention now goes a long way toward avoiding discomfort and bigger bills later.
Our Core General Dentistry Services
We offer a full range of general dental treatments for patients of all ages. Here’s what’s included under general dentistry at Gentle Dental:
Routine Dental Exams
We examine your teeth, gums, jaw, and bite to detect any issues early—before they become painful or expensive to fix.Dental Cleanings
Even with great brushing habits, plaque can build up. Our hygienists remove it professionally and gently to keep your mouth fresh and clean.Digital X-Rays
Modern digital X-rays help us spot hidden problems—like decay between teeth or bone loss—quickly, safely, and with minimal radiation.Tooth-Colored Fillings
If you’ve got a cavity, we use composite materials that blend perfectly with your natural teeth—so no one ever knows it’s there.Gum Disease Treatment
Early gum inflammation? We’ve got you. We offer deep cleanings, scaling and root planing, and guidance on how to improve your home care.Night Guards & Bite Protection
Grinding your teeth at night? We custom-fit protective mouthguards to protect your enamel and relieve jaw tension.Oral Cancer Screenings
Every exam includes a quick, painless screening for signs of oral cancer—because early detection saves lives.
General Dentistry For All Ages
We’re proud to treat everyone in your family—from toddlers with their first teeth to seniors keeping their smiles strong. We know how to tailor our care to your specific age, stage, and comfort level. That’s the beauty of general dentistry—it grows with you.
What To Expect During Your First Visit
If it’s been a while since your last appointment (no judgment—we get it), here’s what happens during a typical first visit:
- A thorough exam and dental cleaning
- Digital X-rays (if needed)
- Review of your medical and dental history
- Personalized care recommendations
- A relaxed, judgment-free experience
No pressure. No lectures. Just clear guidance and supportive care.
The Power Of Prevention
Skipping dental checkups may seem harmless—until a small issue becomes a big one. With consistent visits, we can catch and treat problems early, often before you even notice symptoms.
Plus, regular cleanings help prevent the kind of damage brushing alone can’t fix.
Schedule Your Next Appointment Today
If you’re looking for a trusted dental home that puts your health, comfort, and convenience first—welcome to Gentle Dental. Our team is here to help you maintain a smile that’s not only healthy, but truly yours.
Call us today to book your appointment and take the first step toward better oral health, one visit at a time.