FOUNDATIONAL ORAL CARE

General Dentistry

Comprehensive Care for Your Everyday Dental Needs

General dentistry is the foundation of a healthy smile. At Glendale Dental Wellness, Dr. Ivan Chan and our team provide thorough, gentle care that keeps your teeth and gums healthy at every stage of life — from routine checkups and professional cleanings to restorative treatments that preserve your natural teeth.

We believe prevention is the best medicine. By catching problems early with digital x-rays and comprehensive exams, we can often treat issues conservatively — saving you time, discomfort, and expense. When treatment is needed, we use modern techniques and materials that look natural and last.

General dentistry checkup and cleaning at Glendale Dental Wellness

Our Approach to General Dentistry

Dr. Chan takes a personalized approach to every patient's care. Rather than a one-size-fits-all treatment plan, we consider your overall health, dental history, lifestyle, and goals. Every visit begins with a thorough evaluation — including oral cancer screenings — so nothing is overlooked.

Whether you need a simple cleaning, a tooth-colored filling, or more complex treatment like root canal therapy, we explain every option clearly and let you make informed decisions about your care. Our goal is to help you keep your natural teeth healthy for life.

Maintaining Your Oral Health

Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste

Spend at least two minutes brushing in the morning and before bed. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and replace it every three months.

Floss every day — no exceptions

Flossing removes plaque and food particles from between teeth where your brush can't reach. It's the single most important thing you can do to prevent gum disease.

Don't skip your six-month checkups

Regular visits allow us to catch problems early. A small cavity today can become a root canal or extraction tomorrow if left untreated.

Watch for warning signs

Bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, tooth sensitivity, or jaw pain are your body's signals that something needs attention. Don't wait for pain to become severe.

Limit sugary and acidic foods

Sugar feeds the bacteria that cause cavities, while acidic foods erode enamel. Rinse with water after consuming them, and wait 30 minutes before brushing.

Protect your teeth during sports

A custom mouthguard from your dentist offers far better protection than store-bought options. One blow to the face can mean years of restorative work.

Common Questions About General Dentistry

How often should I visit the dentist?

We recommend dental checkups and cleanings every six months for most patients. However, some individuals with gum disease or other conditions may benefit from more frequent visits. We'll recommend the ideal schedule based on your individual needs.

What happens during a dental cleaning?

During a cleaning, our hygienist removes tartar and plaque from your teeth using specialized instruments. Your teeth are then polished and fluoride is applied. A thorough cleaning helps prevent cavities and gum disease.

Are tooth-colored fillings better than silver amalgam?

Tooth-colored fillings offer several advantages: they're more aesthetically pleasing, they bond directly to your tooth (requiring less tooth removal), and many patients prefer them for safety reasons. We recommend discussing the best option for your specific situation.

What can I do about tooth sensitivity?

Tooth sensitivity can be caused by worn enamel, exposed root surfaces, or gum disease. Treatment options include desensitizing toothpaste, fluoride gel, gum grafting, or root canal therapy. We'll identify the cause and recommend the best treatment.

Is it painful to have a root canal?

Modern root canal therapy is comfortable and performed under local anesthesia. Most patients compare the experience to having a filling placed. The procedure relieves the pain caused by the infected tooth, and any mild soreness afterward resolves within a few days.

How do I know if I need a dental crown?

A dental crown may be recommended when a tooth is too damaged for a filling to restore, after root canal therapy, or to protect a cracked tooth. Dr. Chan will evaluate the extent of damage and discuss whether a crown is the best option to preserve your natural tooth.

Start Your Journey to Better Oral Health

Schedule your general dentistry appointment today and experience compassionate, comprehensive dental care.

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