General & Family Dentistry

General and family dentistry encompasses a wide range of dental services aimed at maintaining and improving the oral health of patients of all ages. Unlike specialized dental fields that focus on specific areas of dental care, general and family dentistry provides comprehensive care that addresses the overall dental needs of individuals and families.

General Dentistry

General dentistry involves the diagnosis, treatment, and management of your overall oral health. General dentists are your primary care dental providers, responsible for preventive care, diagnosing dental issues, and performing routine procedures to maintain oral health. This branch of dentistry includes preventive care, diagnostic services, treatments for dental diseases, and cosmetic procedures to enhance the appearance of your smile.

Preventive Care

Preventive care is the cornerstone of general and family dentistry. At Woodard Family Dentistry, we emphasize the importance of regular dental checkups and cleanings to maintain optimal oral health. Preventive care services include:

• Routine Checkups

Regular dental checkups, typically done every six months, allow Dr. Woodard and our team to monitor your oral health and detect any potential issues early. During these visits, we perform a thorough examination of your teeth, gums, and mouth to identify signs of decay, gum disease, or other dental problems. Early detection and intervention can prevent minor issues from becoming more serious and costly to treat.

• Professional Cleanings

Professional dental cleanings are essential for removing plaque and tartar buildup that regular brushing and flossing cannot eliminate. Our skilled hygienists use specialized tools to clean your teeth thoroughly, reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease. Cleanings also include polishing your teeth to remove surface stains and leave your smile looking brighter.

• Oral Cancer Screenings

Oral cancer screenings are a vital part of our routine checkups. Dr. Woodard performs a thorough examination of your mouth, throat, and neck to detect any abnormal tissue or lesions that could indicate oral cancer. Early detection significantly improves the chances of successful treatment.

• Fluoride Treatments

Fluoride treatments help strengthen tooth enamel and prevent decay, particularly in children. We may recommend fluoride treatments during your routine visits to provide additional protection against cavities.

• Dental Sealants

Dental sealants are thin, protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of molars to prevent cavities. Sealants are especially beneficial for children, as these areas are prone to decay. Applying sealants is a quick and painless procedure that provides long-lasting protection.

Diagnostic Services

Accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective dental treatment. At Woodard Family Dentistry, we utilize advanced diagnostic tools and techniques to ensure precise and comprehensive assessments of your oral health.

• Digital X-Rays

Digital X-rays are a modern, safe, and efficient way to capture detailed images of your teeth and jaw. These images help Dr. Woodard identify issues such as cavities, bone loss and impacted teeth that may not be visible during a visual examination. Digital X-rays also require less radiation exposure compared to traditional film X-rays.

• Intraoral Cameras

Intraoral cameras are small, handheld devices that capture high-resolution images of the inside of your mouth. These images are displayed on a monitor, allowing you and Dr. Woodard to see a clear, magnified view of your teeth and gums. Intraoral cameras aid in diagnosing dental conditions and explaining treatment options.

Restorative Dentistry

Restorative dentistry focuses on repairing and restoring the function and appearance of damaged or missing teeth. At Woodard Family Dentistry, we offer a variety of restorative treatments to address dental issues and enhance your smile.

• Fillings

Dental fillings are used to repair cavities and restore the integrity of a tooth. We offer tooth-colored composite fillings that blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, a durable and aesthetically pleasing solution for cavities.

• Crowns

Dental crowns are custom-made caps that cover and protect damaged or weakened teeth. Crowns restore the shape, size, and strength of the tooth, enabling it to function properly. We use high-quality materials to create crowns that look and feel like natural teeth.

• Bridges

Dental bridges are used to replace one or more missing teeth. A bridge consists of artificial teeth anchored by crowns on adjacent teeth. This restoration fills the gap left by missing teeth, restoring your smile and improving your ability to chew and speak.

• Dentures

Dentures are removable appliances that replace missing teeth and surrounding tissues. We offer both full and partial dentures designed to be a comfortable and natural-looking solution for tooth loss. Dr. Woodard works closely with you to ensure your dentures fit well and enhance your smile.

• Root Canal Therapy

Root canal therapy is a treatment used to save a severely damaged or infected tooth. During the procedure, Dr. Woodard removes the infected pulp from the tooth, cleans and disinfects the root canals, and fills them with a biocompatible material. The tooth is then restored with a crown to protect it from further damage.

• Dental Implants

Dental implants are a permanent solution for replacing missing teeth. An implant consists of a titanium post that is surgically placed into the jawbone and the attached crown, bridge, or denture. Dental implants serve as natural-looking and functional replacements for missing teeth, helping to preserve jawbone health and restore your smile.

Cosmetic Dentistry

Cosmetic dentistry focuses on enhancing the appearance of your smile. At Woodard Family Dentistry, we offer a range of cosmetic treatments to help you achieve a beautiful, confident smile.

• Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening is a popular cosmetic procedure that removes stains and discoloration, leaving your teeth looking brighter and more youthful. We offer professional teeth whitening treatments that provide superior results compared to over-the-counter products. Whether you prefer in-office whitening or take-home kits, we have options to suit your needs.

• Veneers

Dental veneers are thin, custom-made shells that cover the front surfaces of your teeth. Veneers are used to correct imperfections such as chips, cracks, gaps, and discoloration. Made from high-quality porcelain or composite resin, veneers provide a natural and durable solution for enhancing your smile.

• Bonding

Dental bonding is a quick and cost-effective way to repair minor imperfections in your teeth. During the bonding process, Dr. Woodard applies a tooth-colored resin to the affected area and shapes it to match your natural tooth. Bonding can be used to fix chips, cracks, gaps, and discoloration, improving the appearance of your smile.

• Invisalign

Invisalign is a modern orthodontic treatment that uses clear, removable aligners to straighten teeth. Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign aligners are virtually invisible and can be removed for eating, brushing, and flossing. Dr. Woodard creates a customized treatment plan to gradually move your teeth into the desired position, providing a discreet and comfortable way to achieve a straighter smile. Call us to learn more.

Family Dentistry

Family dentistry addresses the oral health needs of patients of all ages, from young children to seniors. At Woodard Family Dentistry, we understand the unique dental needs of each family member and provide personalized care to ensure everyone maintains optimal oral health.

Pediatric Dentistry

Pediatric dentistry focuses on the dental care of children from infancy through adolescence. We offer a range of services tailored to the needs of young patients, including preventive care, fluoride treatments, sealants, and early orthodontic evaluations. Our friendly and gentle approach helps children feel comfortable and positive about visiting the dentist.

Geriatric Dentistry

Geriatric dentistry addresses the oral health needs of older adults. As we age, our dental needs change, and we may face issues such as tooth loss, gum disease, and dry mouth. Dr. Woodard provides compassionate care to help seniors maintain their oral health and quality of life.

Preventive Education

Educating our patients about proper oral hygiene is a key component of family dentistry. We provide guidance on brushing, flossing, and maintaining a healthy diet to prevent dental issues. Our team is always available to answer your questions and provide tips for keeping your smile healthy and beautiful

Conclusion

At Woodard Family Dentistry in Spokane Valley, WA, we are committed to providing comprehensive general and family dentistry services to meet the needs of your entire family. Dr. Christopher S. Woodard, DMD, and our experienced team are dedicated to ensuring your oral health and helping you achieve a beautiful, healthy smile. Whether you need preventive care, restorative treatments, or cosmetic enhancements, we are here to provide the highest quality dental care in a comfortable and welcoming environment.