What is general dentistry?
General dentistry is the primary specialty of dental care, focusing on diagnosing, preventing, and treating common oral health issues. It includes routine exams, professional teeth cleanings, fillings, root canal treatments, extractions, and removable prosthodontics - forming the foundation for a healthy and functional smile for patients of any age.
Why are routine dental exams essential?
Oral health is inseparable from overall physical health. According to the American Dental Association (ADA), about 100 million Americans skip dental visits each year, whereas routine checkups and proper oral hygiene can prevent most dental diseases.
The American Academy of Periodontology (AAP) also notes that symptoms of gum disease are often silent, meaning they may not be outwardly apparent until the disease has advanced to a severe stage. This makes professional examinations – not just self-assessment – essential.
Conditions like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections are closely linked to poor oral health. General dental exams are not just about evaluating teeth but can also detect early systemic warning signs that require medical monitoring.
The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends visiting a dentist at least once or twice a year, although frequency depends on individual patient risk factors. Your dentist will determine the optimal schedule for you.
Cardiovascular Disease
Gum inflammation is linked to increased cardiovascular risk.
Diabetes
Periodontal disease worsens blood sugar control in diabetic patients.
Respiratory Infections
Oral bacteria can be inhaled, increasing pulmonary infection risk.
What does general dentistry include?
Comprehensive general dentistry services include: professional teeth cleaning (scaling and polishing), dental X-rays, fillings, root canal treatments, tooth extractions (including wisdom teeth), removable dentures, cosmetic fillings, gum disease screening, and oral cancer screening. Patients receive a personalised care plan based on exam results.
Professional Oral Hygiene
Dental plaque hardens into calculus within 24–72 hours if not removed by brushing and flossing — and once hardened, only a dentist can remove it. Professional scaling removes supragingival and subgingival plaque, which contribute to gingivitis and periodontitis, the leading causes of tooth loss in adults. The ADA recommends scaling at least every six months.
Dental Exams & Screening
Every general dental visit includes a comprehensive oral examination: evaluating all teeth for decay, checking bite alignment, assessing existing restorations, and screening soft tissues for signs of oral cancer.
Composite Fillings
When a tooth has minor decay or cracks, composite resin fillings restore both function and aesthetics. Unlike older amalgam fillings, composite resins are tooth-coloured, blending perfectly with natural enamel. They bond directly to the tooth surface, minimising removal of healthy tooth structure.
Root Canal Treatment
Root canal treatment becomes necessary when a bacterial infection reaches the dental pulp — the innermost layer containing nerves and blood vessels. Modern root canal therapy, performed under local anaesthesia, causes no more discomfort than a standard filling and preserves the natural tooth.
Tooth Extractions
Extractions are indicated when a tooth is unrestorable due to severe decay, fracture, significant periodontal bone loss, or malposition. Wisdom tooth extraction is one of the most common oral surgical procedures worldwide. SG International Dental performs simple, surgical, and complex impacted extractions.
Removable Dentures
For patients missing multiple teeth, removable dentures help restore chewing function, facial aesthetics, and clear speech. Modern removable dentures made from acrylic and flexible nylon are crafted to closely mimic the appearance of natural teeth.
What happens during a general dentistry appointment?
Comprehensive Oral Exam
The dentist reviews your recent medical history, examines all teeth and gum tissues, assesses your bite, and determines if dental X-rays are needed. Any existing restorations, implants, or dentures are also evaluated.
Professional Cleaning
Plaque and tartar are removed using ultrasonic scaling, then hand instruments clean interdental spaces. A polishing paste is applied to smooth all tooth surfaces.
Performing Treatment
If decay, infection, or other conditions are found, treatment options are clearly discussed before proceeding. All costs are communicated upfront — no surprises.
At-Home Care & Follow-Up
You receive personalised guidance on brushing techniques, flossing, and dietary habits. A six-month follow-up schedule is recommended for most patients.
The dentist reviews your recent medical history, examines all teeth and gum tissues, assesses your bite, and determines if dental X-rays are needed. Any existing restorations, implants, or dentures are also evaluated.
Plaque and tartar are removed using ultrasonic scaling, then hand instruments clean interdental spaces. A polishing paste is applied to smooth all tooth surfaces.
If decay, infection, or other conditions are found, treatment options are clearly discussed before proceeding. All costs are communicated upfront — no surprises.
You receive personalised guidance on brushing techniques, flossing, and dietary habits. A six-month follow-up schedule is recommended for most patients.
General Dentistry Services — Pricing
| Service | Unit | Price (VND) |
|---|---|---|
| Teeth Scaling — mild plaque | Per visit | 300,000 ₫ |
| Teeth Scaling — heavy tartar | Per visit | 500,000 ₫ |
| Composite Filling — small cavity | Per tooth | 300,000 ₫ |
| Composite Filling — large cavity | Per tooth | 500,000 ₫ |
| Root Canal — 1–3 canals (high-tech) | Per tooth | 1,000,000 ₫ |
| Root Canal — retreatment / complex | Per tooth | 2,000,000 ₫ |
| Root Canal — MTA (1–4 canals) | Per tooth | 3,000,000 ₫ |
| Periodontal Treatment (mild to severe) | Per tooth | 2,000,000 ₫ |
| Simple Extraction (1–2 roots) | Per tooth | 390,000 – 690,000 ₫ |
| Surgical Extraction (molar 6, 7) | Per tooth | 1,100,000 ₫ |
| Wisdom Tooth Extraction — simple | Per tooth | 1,500,000 ₫ |
| Wisdom Tooth Extraction — complex impacted | Per tooth | 4,000,000 ₫ |
| Teeth Whitening — standard | 2 arches | 2,000,000 ₫ |
| Teeth Whitening — advanced technology | 2 arches | 4,000,000 ₫ |
Prices are for reference only and will be confirmed during consultation. No hidden fees.
Why Do Patients Choose SG International Dental For General Dentistry Services?
Highly Qualified Team
Our leading specialist, Dr. Binh, has over 15 years of clinical experience in periodontics, prosthodontics, and implant restorations. All treating dentists have completed accredited training programs and maintain continuous professional development obligations aligned with ADA standards.
Modern Diagnostic Technology
We use digital dental X-rays (lower radiation than conventional), ultrasonic scalers, rotary endodontic systems for root canals, and laser gum contouring. State-of-the-art equipment reduces treatment time, improves accuracy, and enhances patient comfort.
Transparent Pricing
All costs are fully disclosed before any procedure begins. No hidden fees. This aligns with the ADA's recommendation that dentists provide clear information on fees before scheduling treatment. (Source: ADA MouthHealthy.org)
Certified Dental Materials
Composite resins, root canal sealers, and dental cements are exclusively sourced from internationally certified manufacturers in South Korea, the USA, Germany, and Switzerland. Material origin certificates are available on patient request.
General Dentistry FAQs
These FAQs have been medically reviewed. Last updated: April 2026.
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