A family dentist is similar to a general dentist, as each provides services related to the general maintenance of oral hygiene and tooth health.  

While both terms can be used interchangeably, there is a slight difference between the two.  There are certain dentists that restrict their practice to certain age groups, while a family dentist will typically care for the entire family—from young children to older adults.  A family dentist is responsible for ensuring that plaque buildup around the teeth is kept to a minimum, that tooth decay is eliminated and cavities are filled, in order to maintain healthy smiles for the entire family. 

Considered to be the first level of defense against dental complications, a family dentist is viewed as your first step for preventive care.  The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that you visit your family dentist at least twice a year for a checkup and cleaning.  These dental checkups help to ensure the health of your teeth and gums while eliminating plaque buildup and the prevention of tooth decay. 

Your family dentist can help monitor the condition of your family’s dental health while keeping an updated record of your dental history to ensure healthy, happy smiles for a lifetime.