Family dentistry offers comprehensive diagnosis, preventive care, and treatment of common dental problems for patients of all ages. Since it’s never too early or too late to start taking better care of your teeth, picking a dentist who can care for your whole family is always smart.
Remember that good dental hygiene practices are learned at home and at the dentist’s office. It’s very beneficial to have a professional in your corner to provide advice on the most effective ways to promote oral health at every stage of life.
We’re located in Edison, NJ (near Metuchen) and South Plainfield, NJ. At Gentle Dental, we provide our services to patients of all ages and from all walks of life.
What Does a Family Dentist Do?
Some of the most common services, treatments, and procedures performed at Gentle Dental include:
- Oral Health Examination: This involves visually examining the teeth, gums, and jaw to check for signs of decay, disease, bite misalignment, crooked or poorly spaced teeth, and other abnormalities. X-rays, TMJ, and oral cancer screenings fall into this category.
- Prophylactic Cleaning: This basic preventive treatment includes removing minor plaque and tartar buildup to reduce the risk of gingivitis and cavities. It leaves teeth feeling fresh and clean. A preventive cleaning every six months is ideal for most children and adults.
- Gum Disease Intervention: Treatments for moderate gingivitis and early stages of periodontitis involve scaling teeth. This just means scraping off tartar below the gum line, where it builds up and causes gum irritation. It may also involve root planning (smoothing the tooth root so bacteria and plaque can’t build up as easily).
- Fluoride Treatment & Dental Sealant: We usually recommend these preventive treatments for children to limit tooth decay. However, adults can also request these procedures. Fluoride gel is applied topically a couple of times per year. Dental sealant is brushed onto the chewing surfaces of molars where toothbrush bristles can’t adequately clean the tiny grooves in the enamel. Sealants generally last several years.
- Root Canals: An infection in the pulp of a tooth is the most common cause of toothache. Family dentistry includes root canal procedures to relieve pain and stop the spread of bacterial infection. This treatment involves removing the infected tooth pulp and restoring the tooth with a filling or crown. A less extensive treatment called a pulpotomy is used for baby teeth.
- Extractions: Extractions range from pulling baby molars that have splintered to removing decayed or damaged adult teeth. A family dentist can also perform wisdom tooth extractions. This procedure is easiest to do before children reach their late teens.
- Fillings & Crowns: These basic tooth restoration procedures are designed to fill in areas of tooth decay or damage. You can get metal amalgam, composite fillings, and metal and ceramic crowns from a family dentist. Fillings are appropriate for patients of all ages. Ceramic crowns commonly recommended to restore adult teeth. A baby tooth can be treated with a less expensive but very durable stainless steel crown to restore function until the tooth comes out naturally.
- Tooth Whitening: This cosmetic procedure is intended for adult patients with a buildup of staining on their teeth from food and beverage consumption, smoking, and other lifestyle habits. Discoloration in children’s teeth is sometimes caused by issues that surface whitening doesn’t address. So, kids may need different cosmetic treatments than adults to achieve whiter teeth.
What to Look for in a Family Dentist
There are several things you may look for when choosing a family dentist. Some say that technology is important in care; others say to look for a dentist who accepts your insurance. Both can influence the care you receive or your choices in treatment options. However, what our patients appreciate most about Gentle Dental Care, LLC, is the level of personalization they receive.
In a family dental practice, shouldn't everyone feel like family? We think so! To offer a high standard of care, we stay up to date with the latest dental training and techniques. Dr. Strober has achieved the esteemed level of Mastership with the Academy of General Dentistry, an accomplishment achieved by a small percentage of dentists. Dr. Butcofski is a member of the local chapter of the Seattle Study Club, a national continuing education program run by local dentists. Dr. Hiess, who graduated in the top 5% of her class in dental school, also continues to advance her already exemplary skills through continuing education courses.
We are committed to excellence in patient care, and it shows – not only in our commitment to ongoing training but also in how we interact with patients daily.
Why Choose a Family Dentist in Edison, NJ?
Picking one practice for most of your care makes it simple for everyone in your family to get their teeth examined, cleaned, and treated regularly. Dealing with a single dental practice makes payment and insurance claim handling simpler. You can even set aside a “tooth day” for several family members to get a cleaning in a single trip. In addition, you get to build a relationship with your dentist, dental hygienist, and other staff members over time. Everyone in your family will feel more comfortable receiving care from professionals they know and trust.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Family Dentist Serve Patients of All Ages?
Your family dental office is ready to care for the entire family, yes! This can make it easy to get everyone in for their checkups and cleanings all at once. Our caring team of dental professionals understands the nuances of providing preventive and restorative care to a wide range of patients. We approach each patient with the compassion and gentleness that their situation deserves, and we explain what is happening in terms that the patient can understand.
For young children, dental visits are focused on prevention as much as possible. We want these visits to feel fun and rewarding, knowing that seeing the dentist can be an unnerving experience. Likewise, we’re mindful about our approach with teens and adults of all ages, knowing they may have dental anxiety or questions that deserve very clear answers.
We love seeing patients of all ages in our Edison, NJ, dental office! Come meet our staff and get a feel for how we welcome families into our practice.
Can I Bring My Children to See a Family Dentist?
Yes! Children love seeing a family dentist because it means that they don't have to transition as they enter adulthood! Children can also benefit from attending a parent's dental visits before the time comes for them to begin receiving checkups and cleanings. The sooner that a child can begin coming into the office, the better they may accept having their teeth and gums examined and cleaned. If you have questions about how we work with our youngest patients, please feel free to contact our office anytime.
How Often Should I See a Family Dentist?
The American Dental Association recommends six-month recall visits for people of all ages. If you're facing a potentially progressive dental condition like periodontal disease, we may recommend more frequent visits for a short time. Once your oral health is under control, it is acceptable to maintain visits every six months.
Are There Any Procedures a Family Dentist Cannot Provide?
The services available at one family dental practice may be different from others in the area. This is one reason why it is important to do your homework before selecting which dental group is best for your needs. Here at Gentle Dental Care, LLC, our dentists' advanced training enables our patients to benefit from a comprehensive menu of services. We can help you prevent dental disease through check-ups and cleanings, and we can fill cavities. We can design lifelike dental crowns and bridges to address damage and tooth loss and can extract teeth that are not salvageable. Our dentists are also fully trained to perform dental implant treatment to replace missing teeth. Due to our wealth of education and experience, there are very few procedures we’d need to refer to a specialist.
Can a Family Dentist Help With Orthodontic Needs?
Yes, a family dentist can help with basic orthodontic needs, such as monitoring the development of your child's teeth and identifying any alignment issues early on. At our office, we also offer Invisalign as a discreet, comfortable way to straighten teeth. While we can handle many orthodontic needs in-house, we may refer you to an orthodontist for specialized treatments like traditional braces if necessary.
What Types of Preventive Care Do You Offer for Children?
We offer various preventive care services for children, including regular dental checkups, cleanings, fluoride treatments, and dental sealants. These services help protect your child's teeth from cavities and other dental issues.
How Do You Handle Dental Emergencies for Children?
In a dental emergency, we provide prompt and effective treatment to alleviate pain and address the issue. We encourage parents to contact our office immediately if their child experiences a dental emergency, such as a knocked-out tooth, severe toothache, or broken tooth.
When Should My Child Have Their First Dental Visit?
Your child should have their first dental visit by their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth, whichever comes first. Early dental visits are important to ensure that your child's teeth and gums are developing properly and to establish a foundation for good oral health habits. Our team will guide you on caring for your child's teeth and address any concerns you may have.
What Should I Expect During My Child's First Dental Visit?
During your child's first dental visit, we focus on making the experience positive and stress-free. The dentist will gently examine your child's teeth and gums, provide a cleaning if necessary, and offer tips on maintaining good oral hygiene at home. This visit helps your child become familiar with the dental office environment.
How Can I Help My Child Maintain Good Oral Hygiene at Home?
We recommend establishing a routine that includes brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily. Encourage your child to eat a balanced diet and limit sugary snacks and drinks. Regular dental checkups are also essential for maintaining good oral health.
What Is the Importance of Fluoride Treatment for Children?
Fluoride treatment strengthens tooth enamel and helps prevent cavities. It is particularly important for children as their teeth are still developing. Our fluoride treatments are quick, painless, and highly effective in protecting your child's teeth.
How Do You Address the Dental Needs of Teenagers?
Teenagers have unique dental needs, including managing wisdom teeth, orthodontic evaluations, and addressing cavities or gum issues. We provide comprehensive care tailored to the needs of teenagers, ensuring they maintain good oral health as they transition into adulthood.
How Do You Address the Dental Needs of Seniors?
We understand seniors have unique dental needs requiring specialized care and attention. As people age, they may experience tooth decay, gum disease, dry mouth, and tooth loss. Our team is well-equipped to manage these conditions through comprehensive examinations, cleanings, and personalized treatment plans. We offer fillings, crowns, bridges, dentures, fluoride treatments, and periodontal care to maintain healthy gums and prevent further dental problems.
We take the time to understand their medical history, medications, and other factors affecting their oral health. Our compassionate approach ensures that seniors feel comfortable and valued during their visits. We also educate them on proper oral hygiene practices and the importance of regular dental check-ups to maintain their oral health and quality of life.
How Do I Pay for Family Dental Care?
At Gentle Dental Care, we strive to make paying for family dental care as convenient as possible. We participate with Delta Dental Premier Insurance and work with most other insurance companies, provided the patient is not required to go in-network. Our team estimates insurance payments using advanced software to provide you with accurate information.
We offer financing options through Care Credit, including no-interest plans for those without insurance. Please visit our Patient Resources page for more details on insurance, payment plans, and other financial resources.
Contact Us for Your Family's Dental Needs
Having all your family’s dental records in one place ensures better continuity of care. It’s easier to spot emerging oral health problems when the same family dentistry practitioner sees you and your kids regularly. Early detection and treatment offer the best chances for a successful outcome.
If you have any questions about our family dentist procedures, please call us at 732.549.5660 or click here to schedule a consultation. We hope to be your practice of choice when looking for a family dentist in Edison, Piscataway Township, New Brunswick, Metuchen, or Woodbridge Township, NJ.
