Family dentist—what does that mean? The term refers to a dental practice that treats oral health at all stages of life. A family dentist offers a range of dental services and procedures to ensure the entire family maintains good oral health.

What Services Do Family Dentist Offer?

A good family dental office is kid, adult, and elderly-friendly. The dentist generally offers a variety of necessary services for the entire family such as:

• Cleanings
• Fillings
• Sealants
• Tooth replacement
• Bridges
• Crowns

This is not an exhaustive list but covers the main oral issues that people face during their lifetime. A family dentist offers preventative education to help everyone practice good oral hygiene and enjoy good oral health.

Kids require education on how to brush and floss, and a family dentist helps educate them about these procedures. A good dentist can also make learning about oral hygiene fun for younger members of the family.

What About Older Family Members?

A family dentist also offers services for elderly family members. The elderly face problems that younger patients may not, like needing dentures or correcting discolored teeth.

It is common for teeth to get darker as a person ages and enamel wears away. This causes teeth to appear more yellow or gray.

Gum disease and tooth loss are also more common as a person ages, especially if the person hasn't kept up with good oral hygiene, like regular brushing and flossing. These tasks can become difficult for aging individuals.

A good family dentist offers education and assistance in making sure the older people in the family also enjoy good oral health.

How Do I Choose A Family Dentist?

A good family dentist should be patient with kids and also understand common dental fears and how to address them for patients. Qualities to look for include:

• Good education and credentials
• Positive reviews from current patients
• Up-to-date dental procedures
• A comfortable friendly office atmosphere
• Insurance accepted

Along with those listed, you also want to ensure the office offers services your entire family need or will need in the future such as:

• Invisalign
• Cavity treatment
• Cosmetic dentistry
• Extractions
• Gum disease treatment
• Root canals

A good family dentist is easy to talk to and makes it possible to express concerns without judgment. They get to know their patients on a personal level before treatment begins. This helps put patients at ease and can help them feel that the dentist cares for their overall health and well being. Contact a family dentist for more information.