General Family Dentistry

Our professional and courteous family dental team specializes in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of various dental conditions.

Although general dentists provide primarily preventative care and minor restorative therapy, they often are able to perform a wide array of dental procedures, including cosmetic treatments.

From General Dentistry to Specialty Services, We Keep You Smiling!

Who is the one health care provider you see more than any other?

For many people, the answer is: their general family dentist. There’s a good reason for that — it’s because general dentistry is uniquely oriented toward the prevention of disease. In fact, it is estimated that nearly 65 percent of all dental procedures are either diagnostic or preventive. By placing a strong emphasis on oral health and hygiene, general dentists help people avoid the progression of oral diseases. If left untreated, these eventually result in pain, lost time at work or school – and that’s not to mention the additional costs.

Following is a partial list of General Family Dentistry services available at Westwood Family Dental.

Dental Exams:

During a dental exam, typically we will clean your teeth and check for cavities and gum disease. Additionally, we will also evaluate your risk of developing other oral health problems, as well as check your face, neck and mouth for abnormalities. Learn more about dental exams.

Fillings for Cavities and Tooth Decay:

By closing off spaces or “holes” in your teeth where bacteria can enter, a filling helps prevent further decay. Learn more about tooth decay and fillings.

Gingivitis and Periodontal Disease:

Gingivitis refers to inflammation of the gums due to an excess of plaque on the teeth. Signs of gingivitis include red, swollen gums – or gums that bleed easily when you brush your teeth. By contrast, periodontitis (periodontal disease) has progressed to more serious gum disease. Learn more about gingivitis and periodontal disease.

Oral Appliances for Sleep Apnea and Snoring:

Worn only during sleep, an oral appliance fits like a sports mouth guard or an orthodontic retainer. It supports the jaw in a forward position to help maintain an open upper airway. Research shows that oral appliance therapy is an effective treatment option for snoring and obstructive sleep apnea. Learn more about sleep apnea and oral appliances.

Root Canals and Root Canal Treatment:

A root canal procedure is performed when the nerve of the tooth becomes infected or the pulp becomes damaged. During a root canal procedure, the nerve and pulp are removed, and the inside of the tooth is cleaned and sealed. Learn more about root canals and root canal treatment.

Scaling and Root Planing:

The objective for periodontal scaling and root planing is to remove dental plaque and calculus (tartar), which house bacteria that release toxins which cause inflammation to the gum tissue and surrounding bone. This is also known as “deep cleaning”. Learn more about scaling and root planing.

Teeth Grinding (Bruxism):

Although teeth grinding can be caused by stress and anxiety, it often occurs during sleep and is more likely caused by an abnormal bite or missing or crooked teeth. It can also be caused by a sleep disorder such as sleep apnea. Learn more about teeth grinding (Bruxism).

Tooth Extractions:

Tooth extraction is the removal of a tooth from its socket in the bone. This is a common occurrence with Wisdom Teeth, as they crowd your mouth, or beocme impacted and must be removed. Extractions also occur when a tooth is so badly damaged it cannot be repaired, and must be replaced with a cosmetic device such as a crown or dental implant. Learn more about tooth extractions.

Who is Treating Your Family’s Dental Needs?

We would love to be the dentist for your family. Give Westwood Family Dental a call, and let’s get your family started on the path to dental health – for everyone. We have two locations to serve you.

In Sedalia:  (660)-851-2128
In Cole Camp:  (660)-668-3322