General Dentistry

General Dentistry

Who is the one healthcare provider you see more than any other? For many people, the answer is their general 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 an estimated cost of billions of dollars each year.

Star Dental’s general dentists are the main providers of dental care to people of all ages. At a routine visit to your family dentist, you will probably have a thorough examination of your mouth (including teeth, gums, and other structures), a professional cleaning, and a discussion about your dental (and overall) health. If your exam reveals the presence of tooth decay, you will probably also have a filling in the affected tooth. Yet these procedures, while common, are hardly the only services your general dentist provides.

What Do General Dentists Do?

General dentists provide a wide array of services that are vital to your continued health, including:

• Preventive Services: Prevention is the foundation of a healthy smile. General dentists focus on identifying and addressing issues before they become serious. Preventive care includes regular dental exams, diagnostic imaging (such as X-rays), and professional cleanings—all aimed at keeping your teeth and gums in optimal condition. Your dentist may also offer personalized guidance on improving your oral hygiene routine at home, and recommend treatments like fluoride applications or dental sealants for added protection. For active individuals, custom-fitted mouth guards can be provided to protect against dental injuries during sports or physical activity.
• Restorative Services: When dental problems do arise, general dentists are equipped to restore your smile quickly and effectively. The most common restorative procedure is filling a cavity caused by tooth decay. However, general dentistry covers much more than that. Your dentist can repair broken, chipped, or knocked-out teeth, treat gum disease, and manage dental pain. More advanced restorative options include placing crowns, bridges, and dentures to replace missing teeth. Many general dentists also offer root canal therapy, minor oral surgery, orthodontic care, and dental implants, helping patients regain both function and aesthetics.
• Cosmetic Procedures: A beautiful smile can boost confidence, and general dentists offer a variety of cosmetic treatments to enhance the appearance of your teeth. These services may include teeth whitening, tooth-colored bonding to repair chips or gaps, and porcelain veneers to improve shape, color, or alignment. If you’re interested in a total smile makeover, your general dentist can develop a customized treatment plan tailored to your goals.
• Whole-Body Health and Wellness: Oral health is closely linked to your overall well-being. General dentists are trained to recognize how issues in your mouth may reflect or influence conditions throughout the body. For instance, untreated gum disease can worsen diabetes control, contribute to heart disease, or increase the risk of pregnancy complications. General dentists may screen for early signs of oral cancer, offer solutions for conditions like obstructive sleep apnea, and provide counseling on diet, tobacco cessation, and preventive lifestyle habits. They serve as your first line of defense not just for oral health—but for maintaining your overall health as well.

When Should I See The Dentist?

The short answer is every six months for preventative services, and otherwise, whenever you have a concern about your oral health. You may have a clear signal (such as a toothache or bleeding gums) that something in your mouth needs attention. Or, you may have heard of a cosmetic procedure that you’d like to find out more about. In either case, don’t hesitate to call the dental office.

In terms of routine dental appointments, there isn’t a single schedule that fits all patients. Depending on your individual circumstances, your dentist may want to see you twice a year, every three months, or another interval. Whatever it is, don’t let those appointments go! Keeping up with the recommended schedule of preventive treatment and practicing effective oral hygiene at home are the two best ways to prevent dental disease—and keep your smile looking bright and healthy for the rest of your life.

Affordable Care with Medicaid and More

We proudly accept Medicaid, Delta Dental, MetLife, and most major insurance plans. We also offer flexible payment plans and transparent pricing to ensure you can access the dental care you deserve without financial stress.

General Dentistry FAQs

Q: What’s the difference between a general dentist and a specialist?
A: A general dentist offers a wide range of services, including preventive, restorative, and cosmetic care. A specialist, like a periodontist or orthodontist, focuses on specific conditions. Your general dentist is your first stop for most dental needs and will refer you to a specialist if needed.

Q: How often do I need X-rays?
A: Most patients need bitewing X-rays once a year and a full-mouth series every 3–5 years. Your dentist will tailor this schedule based on your risk level for cavities, gum disease, or other conditions.

Q: I haven’t seen a dentist in years—what should I expect?
A: First, don’t worry—we’re here to help, not judge. Your first visit will include an exam, X-rays, a cleaning (if appropriate), and a personalized care plan. We’ll discuss your concerns and goals to make sure you’re comfortable moving forward.

Q: Can I get my teeth cleaned if I have gum disease?
A: If gum disease is present, your dentist may recommend a deeper cleaning called scaling and root planing. This helps remove bacteria below the gumline and promotes healing.

Q: What if I don’t have dental insurance?
A: We offer affordable care options and flexible payment plans. Our office can work with you to ensure you receive the care you need, even without insurance.

Schedule Your Appointment Today

Your oral health is too important to put off. Whether you're due for a check-up, need dental work, or want to explore cosmetic options, our friendly team at Star Dental in Colorado Springs is ready to welcome you.

???? Call us at 719-597-7979 or request an appointment online.
Accepting Medicaid and new patients. Walk-ins welcome!