General Dentistry

If you want to reduce the risk of common oral health issues, like cavities and gum disease, it’s important to enroll in general dentistry. Routine checkups and X-rays can alert you to underlying conditions when they’re easiest to treat. At his self-titled practice, general and family dentist Jason Ray, DDS, and the team offer general dentistry to individuals and families. To make an appointment, call the office in Santa Monica, California, or book online today.

What is general dentistry?

General dentistry provides complete oral health care. As a general dentist, Dr. Ray has years of experience diagnosing and treating dental conditions, including toothaches, gum disease, pulp damage, and more.

What services does general dentistry provide?

Dr. Ray and the team offer a wide range of general dentistry services, including:

Dental cleanings

A dental cleaning is a preventive measure that removes plaque from beneath your gum line and from the surfaces of your teeth. Dr. Ray recommends scheduling a dental cleaning once every six months. Doing so prevents the plaque from calcifying and reduces the risk of gum disease.

Deep cleanings (scaling and root planing)

If you have gum disease, Dr. Ray might recommend a deep dental cleaning called scaling and root planing. 

During treatment, Dr. Ray uses special tools to remove plaque and tartar from beneath your gums. That smooths the roots of your teeth, making it easier for your gums to reattach.

Cosmetic dentistry

Cosmetic dentistry uses various treatments, like teeth whitening or dental implants, to improve the aesthetic appearance of your smile. After an oral exam and a discussion of what you like and dislike about your smile, Dr. Ray can make treatment recommendations.

Oral X-rays

Oral X-rays use digital sensors and other advanced technology to capture images of your jaw, tooth roots, and alveolar bone (the bone that anchors your teeth). X-rays can provide insights into your teeth, gums, and jaw that aren’t visible to the eye.

Fluoride treatment

Some people are more likely to experience tooth decay than others. If you’re one of them, Dr. Ray might recommend a fluoride treatment. Fluoride is a mineral that helps strengthen your enamel. By applying it to your teeth, Dr. Ray can reduce the risk of additional damage.

Dental sealants

Young children aren’t always the best at brushing and flossing. If you’re concerned about your child’s risk of cavities, consider dental sealants. Sealants are thin plastic coatings that Dr. Ray applies to your child’s teeth. They block bacteria and reduce the risk of decay.

Restorative dentistry

Restorative dentistry uses prosthetics, like crowns, bridges, and dentures, to replace or repair missing or damaged teeth. Dr. Ray and the team have a CEREC milling machine onsite, allowing them to create same-day crowns. 

Invisalign®

Invisalign is an orthodontic treatment system that uses removable plastic aligners to straighten your teeth and jaw. Dr. Ray is a Premier Preferred Invisalign Provider, a distinction that few specialists hold.

Should I bring anything to a general dentistry appointment?

To ensure your general dentistry appointment goes smoothly, Dr. Ray and the team recommend bringing the following information:

• Dental insurance card
• Questions or concerns 
• Names of the medications you take
• Symptoms you’re experiencing

If you’ve undergone any lab tests or dental X-rays recently, bring that information as well.

To establish general dentistry care, make an appointment at the practice of Jason Ray, DDS, by calling the office or booking online today