General Dentistry

General dentistry is some of the most important dental work we can offer our patients. Also known as preventive dentistry, general dentistry is key to maintaining a healthy, beautiful smile, free of uncomfortable symptoms and health drawbacks.

General dentistry encompasses many services that are meant to keep your teeth healthy by preventing long-term issues, such as cavities and gum disease.

While Middle Tennessee Prosthodontics provides many specialized services, we also offer general dentistry to patients of all ages. With these routine treatments, you can reduce the risk of tooth loss and have a healthy, bright smile you feel good about. Contact our team in Brentwood to get started.

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How Often Should I Visit the Dentist?

Most teens and adults should have their teeth cleaned at least once every six months. However, many people benefit from more frequent cleaning and exams. If you are prone to tooth decay, gum disease, or cavities, visiting the dentist every three to four months will help prevent dental issues and ensure a cleaner mouth and happier smile.

The Benefits of a General Dentistry Visit

We want everyone to come to our office and experience the benefits of a routine dental visit with us. Dentists recommend these routine visits for:

  • Improved Cosmetics: Cleanings can help your smile look brighter and healthier.
  • Preventive Care: Catching and treating an issue before it gets worse prevents further pain or damage.
  • Thorough Cleanings: Dental cleanings clean areas that you can’t clean when brushing.
  • Screenings: Catching sleep apnea and oral cancer allows us to make treatment plans and preserve your well-being.
  • Healthier Gums: Routine cleanings remove plaque and tartar buildup, reducing your risk of gingivitis and periodontal disease.
  • Long-Term Tooth Preservation: Regular checkups and cleanings help you maintain healthy enamel and strong teeth for life.
Close up of teeth

What to Expect at General Dentistry Visits

We offer thorough general dentistry visits while still respecting your time. If you are coming in with family members, we can often see families back-to-back to make things easier on you. At all general dentistry visits, we perform:

Your appointment begins with a comprehensive dental exam and digital X-rays. These allow our team to assess your teeth, gums, and bone health and identify early signs of decay or wear. If we notice anything out of the ordinary, we will have a consultation and then talk about treatment options.

You’ll also have the opportunity to discuss any concerns or goals directly with your doctor so your care feels informed and collaborative.

Routine cleanings remove plaque and tartar buildup that can’t be eliminated with brushing alone. Our hygienists use gentle techniques to polish your teeth and reduce your risk of gum disease, helping you maintain a healthy and refreshed smile between visits.

Because early detection saves lives, every exam includes an oral cancer screening. Our doctors check for abnormalities such as persistent sores, red or white patches, or unexplained lumps in the mouth or throat. If you’ve noticed symptoms like difficulty swallowing, hoarseness, or chronic mouth pain, we encourage you to schedule a screening sooner than your next 6-month appointment.

Our dental exams also include screenings for sleep apnea—a condition that affects breathing during sleep and often goes undiagnosed. Symptoms can include loud snoring, morning headaches, dry mouth, or feeling tired even after a full night’s rest. If these signs sound familiar, we recommend discussing them with our team during your next visit to protect your overall health and quality of life.

We believe knowledge empowers patients. During your visit, our team will review your home care routine, demonstrate proper brushing and flossing techniques, and share personalized tips to help you prevent future dental issues. Our goal is to help you feel confident about caring for your smile between appointments.

Our General Dentistry Services

Middle Tennessee Prosthodontics is proud to offer a full range of general dentistry services. These services help keep your oral health in good condition and include fillings, crowns, gum care, whitening, fluoride treatments, and much more!

Dental cleanings and exams are the cornerstone of good oral hygiene. A dental hygienist will clean your teeth thoroughly and then one of our dentists will examine your teeth for cavities and other concerns.

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Teeth whitening is one of the most common dental treatments. Many people want a brighter smile without discoloration or stains. With professional teeth whitening, you can have a whiter smile in just one treatment.

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If you have a cavity, don’t worry. Cavities are a common problem with a simple fix. Our dental team can remove cavities and offer fillings, so you can have a comfortable smile again.

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If you are struggling with your periodontal health, we offer dental deep cleanings, which clean under your gumline, unlike a traditional cleaning, which just removes plaque around your gum line. If you are suffering from sensitive gums, bad breath, or discolored gums, we recommend you schedule an exam and cleaning.

We see children 4 years and older for cleanings and exams. If you have children who need to see the dentist for cleanings, we welcome them at our office.

We also offer general education services to help you and your family maintain consistent dental health habits in your daily life.

Don’t Let Dental Anxiety Stop You From Seeing the Dentist

If the thought of visiting the dentist makes you uneasy, you’re not alone. Many patients delay or avoid appointments altogether because of fear, past experiences, or difficulty staying relaxed during treatment. At Middle Tennessee Prosthodontics, we never want anxiety to stand between you and a healthy smile. That’s why we offer sedation dentistry options to help you feel calm, comfortable, and in control during your visit. Sedation dentistry can transform even the most routine appointment into a stress-free experience.

  • Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) provides a light level of relaxation that wears off quickly, making it ideal for cleanings and exams. 
  • IV sedation offers a deeper sense of calm while keeping you safely monitored throughout your visit, for patients who feel more anxious or need longer procedures.

With sedation, you can receive the care you need without tension, discomfort, or fear—often with little memory of the appointment afterward. Whether you’re due for a checkup or more advanced treatment, our experienced team will tailor your sedation plan to your comfort level.

You deserve to enjoy every dental visit with confidence and ease.

Visiting Middle Tennessee Prosthodontics for General Dentistry

Our office welcomes general and prosthodontic care. Our highly trained team offers you a higher level of care supported by the latest technology and a comfortable modern office.

Meet Our Team

Our team of four dentists is all highly skilled and military-trained. We work with your family to have your needs met, whether it is replacing missing teeth or a simple cleaning.

Dr. McLaughlin attended the Arizona School of Dentistry and Oral Health, earning an MPH along with his dental degree. He is married with four children, and loves to spend time with them in the outdoors.

Dr. Miller graduated from Case Western Reserve University and loves the complexity of dentistry and the critical thinking required. He loves spending time with his family and cycling.

Dr. Patel graduated from the University of Pennsylvania for dentistry, and also has a Master’s in Oral Biology, which resulted in award-winning research. Her and her husband, Dr. Peterman, have one daughter. She loves to travel.

Dr. Peterman graduated from the Nebraska Medical Center College of Dentistry and served as a brigade dentist, earning him a Bronze Star and Purple Heart. He also taught at the AEGD residency Program in Fort Liebery, NC. He loves classical cars and movies.

Our Doctors

Our Dental Technology

Our office combines advanced dental technology with years of prosthodontic expertise to make every visit more precise, comfortable, and efficient. Here’s how our technology enhances your care:

  • Trios 5 Intraoral Scanner: Creates highly detailed 3D digital impressions without messy trays or discomfort. This scanner captures your teeth and gums in real time, allowing for greater diagnostic accuracy and a faster, more comfortable experience.
  • CBCT 3D Imaging: Provides a comprehensive view of your teeth, jaw, and surrounding structures. This technology helps our doctors detect early concerns such as bone loss, infection, or airway issues—improving diagnosis and treatment planning.
  • SprintRay 3D Printer: Allows us to design and print precise dental models, surgical guides, and restorations right in our office. By keeping this process in-house, we can deliver customized solutions more efficiently and with exceptional fit and detail.
  • Digital Records and Imaging: Streamline your visits and reduce radiation exposure while keeping your records easily accessible for ongoing preventive and restorative care.

Daily Habits for Healthy Smiles

You can do simple things to maintain good dental health. The two most important things you should do each day are brush morning and night, and floss at least once.

However, remember that some people are more prone to decay or cavities, and even with good habits, your genetics and health conditions can play a role. So, daily habits alone aren’t a substitute for routine dental cleanings and exams.

Man brushing teeth

General Dentistry FAQs

General dentistry focuses on prevention and maintenance, helping you avoid complex dental issues in the future. Regular visits allow our doctors to monitor changes in your oral health and address early warning signs before they lead to more advanced conditions, such as decay, gum disease, or bite imbalance.

Yes. Many systemic conditions—such as heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory illness—are linked to poor oral health. Consistent cleanings and exams help control inflammation and bacteria in the mouth, supporting your total well-being.

You’re not alone, and it’s never too late to restart care. Our team will begin with a comprehensive exam, gentle cleaning, and updated X-rays to understand your current dental health. From there, we’ll create a personalized plan to restore and maintain your smile comfortably.

Absolutely. While often recommended for children, both fluoride treatments and sealants can protect adult teeth from decay, especially in areas that are hard to reach or more prone to wear. These preventive measures strengthen enamel and reduce your risk of cavities.

Request an Appointment in Brentwood

Has it been a while since you’ve seen the dentist? If it’s been over six months since you’ve had your teeth cleaned, making an appointment soon will benefit your dental health. Or, if you’ve noticed any uncomfortable symptoms such as swollen gums or tooth sensitivity, don’t hesitate to call us for assistance!

You can reach our Brentwood office by phone or online to learn more or to request an appointment.

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