The terms family dentist and general dentist are often interchangeably used because there is a slight difference between them. If you are in search of a new dentist in a new city you just moved to or are looking for a replacement for your dentist who just retired, you may have come across the terms family dentist and general dentist a couple of times. The subtle difference in the characteristics of the two will help you narrow down your options when choosing a new dentist. 

Who is a Family Dentist?

A family dentist is extensively trained in his field of study and offers a wide range of services including, but not limited to:

• Tooth cleaning
• Tooth extraction
• Root Canals
• Invisalign
• Crowns
• Veneers
• Dentures 
• Bonding

A family dentist treats individuals of all ages, from babies to those in their old age. So, if you live with your family and would need to take your spouse, kids, or parents to the clinic, it would make sense to opt for a family dentist so that all of you can get treated in one place. This will eliminate the need for you to look for a different dentist for each one of you.

Your family dentist will also make it a point to teach all of you good oral hygiene habits. So, while they encourage your babies to take an interest in maintaining their oral health, they will also advise your parents on how to maintain their dentures and other dental care habits. If one of you need to clarify anything, you can always bring it up at your next appointment with no hesitation.

Who is a General Dentist?

A general dentist offers services similar to a family dentist in terms of the treatments and procedures he conducts. However, he/she chooses to treat only a specific age group. So, your general dentist may or may not necessarily treat your old parents or 5-year-old child. In such cases, you would have to find another dentist or ask your general dentist for a recommendation.

Going to a general dentist should be absolutely fine for those of you who are single and have moved out of your parents’ homes. Going to a general dentist would be perfect in such scenarios.

So, while choosing a dentist for yourself or your family, do quick research to understand tiny details such as checking their practice’s website to find the procedures performed at the facility, whether it is a preferred provider of insurance companies, and so on. Choose the best option you find so that you can stick to him/her for a lifetime without having to worry about switching your dentist again.

Call us at (702)-734-5000 or schedule an online appointment with Dr. Patel for a consultation at our office in Las Vegas, NV.