Dr. 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 We Treat With General Dentistry
- 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 them to produce acids that break down the minerals 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 who need them.
- Tooth Extractions: You should never delay having a tooth extracted if you need to. Dr. Caves can pull wisdom teeth that have decayed 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.
Dr. Caves provides several general services and treatments, including:
Dental Fillings
If you suffer from a cavity or tooth damage, Dr. Caves will use a dental filling to repair the tooth. Dental fillings are common general dentistry treatments that help restore a tooth to its original function and appearance. Fillings are also vital in preventing further decay and damage.
Dr. Caves will first remove the decayed or damaged portion of the tooth, which leaves the tooth weak and vulnerable to damage. Then, he will use composite resin material to return the tooth to its original shape. After a filling, the tooth can function normally, and the patient’s oral health is protected. To learn more about the tooth filling procedure, see Dental Fillings.
Dental Cleanings
Teeth cleanings are routine procedures everyone needs twice a year to help maintain optimal oral health. Even patients who brush and floss regularly require professional dental cleaning from a trained dental hygienist. Plaque and tartar build-up on teeth and hide in tight crevices, making removing them difficult, even with regular brushing and flossing.
Our highly trained dental hygienists will remove all the built-up tartar and plaque in your teeth. Then, they polish your teeth, leaving patients with a clean, healthy, and beautiful smile. The goal is to complement daily oral hygiene to help patients maintain optimal oral health. Regular teeth cleanings prevent gum disease, tooth decay, and teeth stains. To learn more about the importance of professional teeth cleanings, see Dental Cleanings.
Emergency Dental Care
Emergency dental care is vital to our practice. It encompasses prompt treatment and services that aim to address urgent dental health needs. If someone suffers from severe pain, infection, or tooth damage, the patient will require emergency dentistry.
If you are suffering from a dental emergency, contact Dr. Caves’ office. Emergency dental care is vital to preventing further problems and helping maintain oral health. Dr. Caves can reinsert a lost tooth, treat a tooth infection, or repair severe tooth damage when necessary. Emergency dental care will ensure patients receive the best possible outcome and possibly save a tooth. To learn more about what to do in a dental emergency, see Emergency Care.
Pediatric Dentistry
A pediatric dentist is a type of dentist who focuses on the oral health of infants, children, and teens. The main goal in pediatric dentistry is to ensure that a child’s oral health develops on track as they grow and to maintain their teeth, gums, and overall oral health. Each child will have unique needs, and our pediatric services are tailored to meet those needs.
Pediatric services include preventive dental checkups, teeth cleanings, fluoride treatments, dental sealants, and close monitoring of oral development. Dr. Caves is highly trained to diagnose cavities, perform dental fillings on children, address misaligned teeth, and much more.
Our office also focuses on educating parents on how to help their children maintain proper dental health. We discuss thumb-sucking habits, proper brushing and flossing techniques, and dietary advice for young patients. To learn more about pediatric dental services, see Pediatric Dentistry.
Root Canals
Root canal therapy is a dental procedure that removes an infection from the center of a tooth. Infections can develop inside the mouth when a tooth is cracked, chipped, or decayed, and bacteria can enter the tooth. The bacteria invade the tooth’s pulp and cause the infection to develop. An infection inside a tooth is usually very painful, causing pain and swelling.
A root canal or tooth extraction is the only way to address this infection. The best option for oral health is to preserve the natural tooth for as long as possible. The procedure will save the tooth, remove the infection, and prevent further infection. A root canal is a simple, routine procedure that will relieve patients thanks to modern dentistry. To learn more about the root canal procedure, see Root Canals.
Tooth Extractions
There are several reasons why Dr. Caves may recommend a tooth extraction. Severe tooth damage, overcrowding, tooth decay, or impacted teeth are just a few. Additionally, it is a common practice to remove wisdom teeth before they cause unnecessary problems. Dental extractions play a vital role in addressing various oral health issues. Removing a tooth will prevent further problems, such as infection or damage to surrounding teeth.
Extracting a tooth is a simple dental procedure. Dr. Caves will use local anesthesia to ensure patients are comfortable during the procedure. After removing a tooth, we will review your options to replace it. Our goal is to ensure your smile is functioning, healthy, and aesthetically appealing. We also want to make sure you’re comfortable and free of pain. To learn more about why dental extractions are necessary, see Tooth Extractions.
I am so thankful I found Dr Caves’ office! Their staff is so kind and welcoming. I am so impressed and happy with their service and cant wait for my next cleaning!! Thank you Dr Caves, Olivia, and staff!!! Y’all are awesome 🙂 – Olivia Wolf
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.
General Dentistry FAQs
General dentistry and preventative care provide the foundation for your oral health. Read the answers to these commonly asked questions to learn more.
How often should I visit the dentist?
Most people benefit from visiting the dentist every six months for a cleaning and exam. These regular visits help us remove plaque and tartar that you can’t get rid of at home. During your exam, we check for early signs of cavities, gum disease, and other concerns. Some patients may need more frequent visits depending on their oral health needs.
Why are dental cleanings important?
Professional cleanings remove buildup that brushing and flossing can’t reach. Plaque hardens into tartar, which can only be removed with professional tools. If tartar stays on your teeth, it increases your risk of decay and gum disease. Cleanings also give your hygienist a chance to track changes in your mouth over time.
What happens during a routine dental exam?
During an exam, the dentist looks closely at your teeth, gums, tongue, and jaw. They check for cavities, gum disease, bite problems, and signs of oral cancer. X-rays may be taken to evaluate areas that aren’t visible to the eye. The exam helps us catch issues early so treatment stays simple and affordable.
What causes tooth decay?
Tooth decay happens when bacteria in your mouth feed on sugars and release acids that break down enamel. Over time, this process leads to cavities. Poor oral hygiene, frequent snacking, and a high-sugar diet all increase your risk. Fluoride, brushing, flossing, and regular cleanings help protect your teeth.
Are dental X-rays safe?
Yes, modern dental X-rays are extremely safe. Digital technology uses a fraction of the radiation that older film X-rays used. We also use protective aprons to shield your body during the process. The benefits of catching issues early far outweigh the minimal exposure.
What is fluoride, and how does it help my teeth?
Fluoride is a natural mineral that strengthens tooth enamel and helps prevent cavities. It makes your teeth more resistant to acid attacks from bacteria. Many people get fluoride from toothpaste, drinking water, and in-office treatments. Regular fluoride exposure is an important part of cavity prevention.
What toothpaste should I use?
In most cases, fluoride toothpaste is the best choice for cavity prevention. Choose one that meets your needs—sensitivity relief, whitening, or gum health. If you’re unsure, we can recommend a product based on your oral health. Avoid toothpaste without fluoride unless advised otherwise.
What causes bad breath?
Bad breath often comes from bacteria on the tongue, teeth, and gums. Poor oral hygiene, dry mouth, certain foods, and gum disease can all contribute. Regular brushing, flossing, and tongue cleaning help significantly. If bad breath continues, a dental exam can help identify the underlying cause.
Are dental problems linked to overall health?
Yes, oral health and general health are closely connected. Gum disease has been linked to heart disease, diabetes complications, respiratory issues, and more. Infections in the mouth can enter the bloodstream and impact other systems. Maintaining good oral health supports your whole body.
What happens if I skip dental visits?
Skipping dental visits allows plaque and tartar to build up, raising your risk of cavities and gum disease. Problems that could have been treated easily may progress into painful or costly issues. Regular checkups help catch concerns early and keep your smile healthy. Preventive care saves time, money, and discomfort in the long run.