General Dentistry

Preventive care is a crucial part of preserving your oral health and function while detecting potential problems when they’re still treatable. With more than 30 years of general dentistry experience, Dr. Zaffer performs teeth cleanings, gum disease treatments, and many other types of routine dental care at John T. Zaffer, DDS, in Glen Ellyn, Illinois. Call the office today or schedule an appointment online to learn more.

What is general dentistry?

General dentistry is your main form of dental care. It encompasses a wide range of preventive and restorative treatments that aim to protect and repair your oral health. 

As a general dentist with more than 30 years of experience, Dr. Zaffer invests in the latest technology and trains continuously to stay at the forefront of dental techniques to provide the most comfortable, highest quality of care possible.

Why are teeth cleanings so important in general dentistry?

Teeth cleanings are the foundation of general dentistry and preventive care. They keep plaque from accumulating on your teeth. Plaque, a sticky bacteria, clings to your teeth and releases toxins that eat away at your protective tooth enamel. It can harden and turn into tartar, or calculus, which only a professional cleaning can remove.

A routine teeth cleaning includes several essential steps, such as:

• Plaque removal
• High-powered brushing
• Flossing
• Teeth polishing 
• Tooth-strengthening fluoride treatment

Without routine teeth cleanings, plaque can cause tooth decay (cavities). Removing plaque before it settles is a simple way to prevent cavities and other oral health problems. That’s why Dr. Zaffer recommends visiting for a teeth cleaning at least twice a year.

Will general dentistry protect my gums?

Plaque affects more than your teeth. It can also build on your gums, leading to periodontal disease (gum disease). During your routine teeth cleaning, Dr. Zaffer performs a comprehensive dental exam that assesses your gum health. He also uses digital X-rays to determine whether plaque has reached your teeth and gums’ underlying structures.

With an onsite soft tissue laser, Dr. Zaffer can disinfect pockets of plaque beneath the gumline and remove diseased tissue to treat periodontal disease.

Does general dentistry include any restorative treatments?

General dentistry includes many restorative treatments that can repair your teeth and gums, including:

• Dental sealants
• Fillings
• Crowns
• Bridges
• Dentures
• Root canals
• Tooth extractions
• Inlays and onlays
• Dental bonding

Dr. Zaffer also offers custom staining and glazing for crowns, bridges, and other dental restorations.

John T. Zaffer, DDS, proudly provides comprehensive preventive, conservative care for patients of all ages. Call the office today or schedule an appointment online to learn more.