Dentist in Columbus GA

General Dentistry An Overview

general dentist in columbus, gaDr. Albert Caves is a local dentist in Columbus, GA. We provide comprehensive dental care for the entire family. General family dentistry focuses on preventing tooth decay and restoring health and function when needed.

Dr. Caves accomplishes this by establishing an oral health routine that includes at-home care combined with regular, professional dental cleanings. General family services are just one of the dental services we offer patients in Columbus, GA.

Our patients often comment on how different we are from other local dentists in Columbus, GA. Our comprehensive approach makes us stand out. We emphasize the importance of proper diagnosis and treatment planning for the most successful results.

Importance of General Dentistry

When a dentist is able to identify problems in their early stages, he or she can recommend the most conservative treatment methods. Dr. Caves is dedicated to preserving as much of the natural tooth as possible and saving the patient from expensive and uncomfortable procedures.

It is estimated that three out of every four adults have some form of gum disease. Routine examinations can help prevent gum disease by treating problems that could lead to gum disease.

Common Dental Concerns

  • Tooth Decay: Tooth decay is a progressive disease resulting from the interaction of bacteria that naturally occur on the teeth and sugars in the everyday diet. Sugar causes a reaction in the bacteria, causing it to produce acids that break down the mineral in teeth, forming a tooth cavity. A dentist will remove the decay and protect the tooth from future decay with a dental filling or dental crown. In some cases, there may be root damage, requiring a root canal.
  • Pediatric Dental Care: Setting habits early is critical for establishing long-term dental health. Children are susceptible to cavities and plaque build-up. Dr. Caves offers pediatric dentistry starting at age 3. Our staff can help educate children and parents on proper hygiene, thumb-sucking, braces, and other topics.
  • Sensitive Teeth: Your teeth expand and contract in reaction to changes in temperature. Hot and cold food and beverages can cause pain or irritation to people with sensitive teeth. Over time, tooth enamel can be worn down, gums may recede, or teeth may develop microscopic cracks, exposing the interior of the tooth and irritating nerve endings. Just breathing cold air can be painful for those with extremely sensitive teeth.
  • Bad Breath (Halitosis): Daily brushing and flossing help to prevent the buildup of food particles, plaque, and bacteria in your mouth. Food particles left in the mouth deteriorate and cause bad breath. While certain foods, such as garlic or anchovies, may create temporary bad breath, consistent bad breath may be a sign of gum disease or another dental problem.
  • Canker Sores: Canker sores (aphthous ulcers) are small sores inside the mouth that often recur. Generally lasting one or two weeks, the duration of canker sores can be reduced by the use of antimicrobial mouthwashes or topical agents. The canker sore has a white or gray base surrounded by a red border. Dr. Caves also treats canker sores with laser dentistry.
  • Emergency Dental Care: We also provide emergency dental services for patients that need them.
  • Tooth Extractions: You should never delay having a tooth extracted if you need to. Dr. Caves can pull wisdom teeth that have decay and are infected.

General Dentistry What to Expect

Your initial exam with local dentist, Dr. Caves will last approximately one hour. This visit will help you get acquainted with the dentist and staff and discuss your goals and desires for your dental treatment.

Generally, X-rays will be taken so that we can get a clear picture of the jaw’s structure and teeth position. Oral hygiene instructions will also be provided along with suggestions to help you care for your teeth. In most cases, we will also clean your teeth on this visit and provide an evaluation that will outline your existing dental problems and proposed treatment.

We believe that good dental care begins with open communication. We promise to speak candidly with you about any symptoms present that may require further dental treatment, our diagnosis, alternative treatments that may exist, and our recommendations. Working together, we can achieve a true partnership, with one common goal-keeping your smile beautiful and your teeth, gums and jaw joints healthy!

Dental Insurance & Payment Options

We understand the unique needs of each family. Our Columbus, GA dentist office is designed to make your visit to the dentist as easy and stress-free as possible. We cater to military families and accept most major dental insurance, including Metlife Tricare Dental Program.

Dr. Albert Caves, DMD

Why choose Albert Caves DMD?

Dr. Albert Caves has served patients and families in the greater Columbus, GA area for over 20 years. A highly trained and experienced dentist, Dr. Caves works with patients of all ages to maintain, restore or enhance the beauty and function of their natural smile.

Dr. Caves is a leading local dentist for same-day dental restorations using advanced CAD/CAM technology. We can place a beautiful new crown or custom restoration during a single visit. Dr. Caves places all types of dental implants, helping patients with missing teeth or poorly fitting dentures to get back to smiling with confidence.