General Dentist Deerfield Beach, FL
A general dentist is a trusted partner in oral health care in the same way a general practitioner helps individuals maintain overall physical health. Many dental patients make finding a knowledgeable dentist who makes them feel comfortable a high priority. A general dentist is a well-informed professional who provides the regular cleanings and routine maintenance necessary to keep smiles bright, clean, and healthy.
A general dentist is available at Dentistry of South Florida Family & Emergency Dentists in Deerfield Beach and the surrounding area. Generalists are the main oral health care providers of people of all ages. While general dentists are highly educated and trained in multiple dental procedures, there are certain services they may not provide. For these services, a dentist may refer the patient to a specialty dentist. We take your concerns seriously and strive to provide trustworthy dental care. Contact Dentistry of South Florida Family & Emergency Dentists today at (954) 569-8989 to schedule an initial patient consultation.
Differences Between DDS and DDM
Finding the right general dentist is just as important as finding the right general physician. Clients need to feel comfortable enough with the professional to express their wants and concerns while trusting the dentist completely for the care of their teeth. A general dentist is much like a primary care dentist who can provide all the essential needs of standard oral health care. During your search for a general dentist, you are bound to come across two standard abbreviations: DDS and DDM. What are the differences between the two? Is one more qualified than the other? The short answer is no.
According to the American Dental Association, the only difference between a DDS and DDM is a single letter. DDS stands for Doctor of Dental Surgery, while DDM stands for Doctor of Dental Medicine. Both types of dentists complete the same curriculum and receive the same education. That education generally includes three or more years of undergraduate study plus four years of dental school. State licensing boards regard both degrees as equal, and both degrees allow individuals to practice within the scope of general dentistry.
“…the only difference between a DDS and DDM is a single letter. DDS stands for Doctor of Dental Surgery, while DDM stands for Doctor of Dental Medicine.”
Types of Services the General Dentist Performs
Unlike dental specialists who focus on a particular aspect of dentistry, general dentists provide a range of services that are vital to continued health. According to WebMD, these general dental practitioners provide primary dental care to diagnose, treat, and meet patients' oral health needs. Most of the care that general dentists provide is preventative.
Preventative care is key to helping patients maintain oral health and may include routine dental check-ups and education on proper oral hygiene techniques and nutrition. General dentists may also offer certain restorative services to fix damaged or decayed teeth and restore their function. Some cosmetic treatments may also be available to improve the appearance of a smile. Patients should contact our team to learn about our available services.
“Preventative care is key to helping patients maintain oral health and may include services such as routine dental check-ups and education on proper oral hygiene techniques and nutrition.”
General Dentistry for Children
For many families, having one dental provider is more convenient than trying to manage multiple appointments with different offices. However, some may wonder if a child is ready to see the family dentist. The reality is that a general dentist is just as qualified to treat young patients as well as adult patients. Families who want to streamline their schedules by assigning everyone the same dentist can do so with peace of mind.
However, bear in mind that children are less receptive to oral health treatment than adults. To ensure the child has a positive experience at the dentist's office, look for a practitioner with years of experience working with children. Though the office does not need to cater directly to children, it should offer a kid-friendly space in the waiting room and kid-centric accessories, such as X-ray aprons, dental goodie bags, and perhaps a kid-friendly exam room if space allows.
“The reality is that a general dentist is just as qualified to treat young patients as well as adult patients.”
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: General Dentist in Deerfield Beach, FL
The Difference Between DDS and DMD
Children of all ages can have regular dental appointments with a general dentist. Although it might seem early, the sooner children have regular dental checkups, the healthier their mouths will stay throughout their lives. These check-ups help prevent cavities and tooth decay, which can lead to pain and other complications.
Asking questions during appointments with a general dentist is an important part of long-term healthcare. Patients can ask questions about the frequency of check-ups, best oral hygiene practices, and preventing tooth decay and other problems. Dental health varies for each patient. Our team works with each patient to determine the best way to meet their needs.
“Children of all ages can have regular dental appointments with a general dentist.”
Questions Answered on This Page
Q. What services does a general dentist provide?
Q. What is the difference between a DDS and a DMD?
Q. What is the difference between a DDS and DDM?
Q. How does a general dentist cater to children?
Q. How often should I visit a general dentist?
People Also Ask
Q. How can a person's diet help with tooth decay?
Q. How can someone find out what procedures their dental insurance covers?
Q. Why is dental care so important?
Timely Visits to the General Dentist
Most people only visit the dentist when something is wrong, a practice that keeps many from reaching their full smile potential. Visits every six months for a comprehensive checkup and cleaning is ideal to keep teeth and gums healthy. In addition, patients experiencing any form of tooth or gum ache should schedule a visit immediately to prevent the progression or development of a condition.
During the biannual visit, the general dentist performs a thorough examination to look for plaque and tartar buildup, cavities, and gum issues. The visit also includes a scrupulous cleaning to help remove tartar, which cannot be removed at home. After cleaning, the dentist applies a polish, which helps remove surface stains. The dentist also advises each patient on what to do between visits to keep teeth strong and healthy.
“During the biannual visit, the general dentist performs a thorough examination to look for plaque and tartar buildup, cavities, and gum issues.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Why do individuals need to visit a general dentist?
A. Regular dental visits are vital for both oral health and overall physical health. Routine dental care helps prevent tooth decay, protects against gum disease, and creates the foundation for a strong, healthy smile that will last. It also protects against bad breath and helps maintain good oral hygiene.
Q. How can patients overcome apprehension about general dentist visits?
A. Dental phobia is completely normal. In fact, it is estimated that nearly 75% of adults in the US live with this anxiety. Dentists are aware of this issue and have developed techniques to help patients feel more confident during visits. Your comfort is our top priority, so if you feel even the slightest discomfort, let our practitioners know. We will always take additional measures to make you feel more at home.
Q. When should parents take children to the general dentist?
A. You will want to schedule your children's dental visits every six months just as you do the adults in the family. Set a positive tone for your children and help them look forward to dental appointments. Make sure to choose a kid-friendly dentist with experience treating children.
Q. Do people still need to visit the general dentist if their teeth feel fine?
A. Yes, individuals should maintain biannual dental visits even when teeth feel fine. Unfortunately, teeth or gums may develop issues without patient awareness, but a trained professional can spot these problems right away. In addition, regular dental visits keep teeth looking white, healthy and beautiful.
Q. Why does a general dentist recommend flossing?
A. Brushing is not enough. Flossing helps to remove the minuscule particles between the teeth where the bristles of the toothbrush cannot reach. Without flossing, plaque can remain between the teeth, which can eventually develop into tartar.
Q. What can patients do to prevent cavities between visits to the general dentist?
A. For starters, brush and floss at least twice a day. Keep sugar to a minimum and be wary of sticky foods that can remain on teeth for long periods of time, such as peanut butter and bananas. Rinse the mouth with water after eating to help remove food from the teeth and chew sugarless gum.
Scan here to view this page, General Dentist, on mobile
Dental Terminology
Call Us Today
A general dentist offers comprehensive dental care to maintain healthy teeth at any age. Our team at Dentistry of South Florida Family & Emergency Dentists can provide you with the dental care you deserve. Call us today at 954-569-8989 to schedule an appointment or learn more about our services.
Helpful Related Links
- American Dental Association (ADA). Glossary of Dental Clinical Terms. 2025
- American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry® (AACD). Home Page. 2025
- WebMD. WebMD’s Oral Care Guide. 2025
About our business, license, and website security
- Dentistry of South Florida Family & Emergency Dentists was established in 2000.
- We accept the following payment methods: American Express, Cash, Check, Discover, MasterCard, and Visa
- We serve patients from the following counties: Broward County, Palm Beach County and Miami-Dade County
- We serve patients from the following cities: Boca Raton, Deerfield Beach, Hillsboro Beach, Pompano Beach, Coconut Creek, Highland Beach, Boynton Beach, Lighthouse Point, Margate, Coral Springs, Hillsboro Pines, Sea Ranch Lakes, Fort Lauderdale and Parkland
- FL (License #DN15538). View License Information and Specifics
- National Provider Identifier Database (1477633576). View NPI Registry Information
- Healthgrades. View Background Information and Reviews
- Norton Safe Web. View Details
- Trend Micro Site Safety Center. View Details
Scan here to open directions to Dentistry of South Florida Family & Emergency Dentists on mobile
Back to top of General Dentist
Related Posts
Can A General Dentist Administer An Orthodontics Treatment?
Orthodontics treatments involve the alteration of the teeth, the jaws, and the soft tissues that connect the two. These alterations can improve the alignment of said teeth and jaws. The resulting aesthetic and oral health benefits of orthodontic treatment are worth the time and effort of the process.Moving different teeth to optimal positions requires a…
Welcome To Dentistry Of South Florida Family & Emergency Dentists
We are committed to providing quality service to residents located In the Deerfield Beach, FL area. Our website has additional information about the following topics: Dentist, Cosmetic Dentist, General Dentist, Family Dentist, Emergency Dentist, Dental Implants, All-on-4 Dental Implants, Implant Supported Dentures, Dentures and Dental Crowns.
Explore additional topics covered on our website:
Call Us Today
Scan here to call Dentistry of South Florida Family & Emergency Dentists on mobile
