At Slate Dental, we work hard to give the best care to our patients in Washington, D.C., and the surrounding areas. Our general dental services focus on keeping your teeth and gums healthy with treatments that prevent and fix common dental problems. Whether you’re a new patient or have been with us for years, we are here to help.
General Dentistry at Slate Dental in Washington, D.C.
Regular dental check-ups are key to staying on top of your oral health. They allow us to catch small issues like cavities or gum disease before they turn into bigger problems. Dr. John Slate recommends coming in for a cleaning and check-up at least twice a year. This helps ensure that small issues are addressed quickly and don’t get worse over time.
General dentists offer many types of care, from routine cleanings to more advanced treatments. Dr. Slate provides preventive, restorative, and cosmetic services, all aimed at keeping your smile healthy and looking great.
Our office provides the following general dental care services:
Preventive Dental Care
One of the most important parts of general dentistry is preventive care. Regular cleanings help remove plaque and tartar that brushing and flossing can’t always get. During your visit, Dr. Slate will also check for signs of decay, gum disease, or other issues that might need attention.
If you grind your teeth or clench your jaw, Dr. Slate will be on the lookout for signs of damage. Grinding, especially during sleep, can wear down your teeth and cause cracks or chips. Over time, this can lead to more serious problems like decay or even tooth fractures. If you grind your teeth, we can recommend ways to protect them and prevent further damage.
We also offer fluoride treatments, which help strengthen your tooth enamel. Fluoride makes teeth more resistant to cavities and is especially helpful for children. However, adults can benefit from it too, as it keeps your teeth strong.
Sealants are another great option for preventing cavities. These are thin coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth, which are more prone to decay. Sealants keep food and bacteria from getting stuck in hard-to-clean areas. Dr. Slate often recommends these for children and teens, but adults can benefit from them too.
Education for Good Oral Health
At Slate Dental, we believe education is just as important as treatment. When patients know how to care for their teeth, they can avoid many common dental problems. Dr. Slate and his team will guide you on the best ways to brush and floss, showing you the proper techniques to keep your mouth clean and healthy.
Your diet also plays a big role in your dental health. Foods that are high in sugar and acids can cause tooth decay. Dr. Slate will give you advice on eating a balanced diet that supports strong, healthy teeth. He can also suggest alternatives that are better for your oral health while still being satisfying.
Some habits can hurt your teeth, such as smoking, chewing on ice, or grinding your teeth. Dr. Slate can help you identify these harmful habits and offer advice on how to stop them, so you can keep your smile in great shape.
Schedule A Dental Visit Today
At Slate Dental, we are committed to offering complete dental care to our community. Whether you need a routine cleaning or help with a specific issue, we are here to ensure that your teeth and gums are in the best condition possible. Regular visits, combined with good habits at home, will keep your smile healthy for years to come. Schedule your appointment today and let us help you maintain a healthy, bright smile!