What is the difference between a family dentist and a general dentist?

A general dentist focuses on overall oral health for adults, though many also see teens and children. A family dentist takes that a step further by providing comprehensive care tailored to patients of every age. At Kimberly Rice Dental, we’re trained to monitor growth and development in kids while also managing adult dental needs and age-related changes in the smile.

What services can a family dentist provide?

Family dentists provide a wide range of services that promote oral health at every stage of life. These typically include preventive care like cleanings and exams, fluoride treatments, dental sealants for kids, treatment for cavities, gum disease care, tooth-colored fillings, emergency care, and guidance on proper brushing and flossing.

How often do I need to visit the dental office?

The ADA advises to visit the dentist at least every six months. This will help ensure that even if a problem does arise, the team at our office will be able to catch it quickly, minimizing the cost and severity of the issue.

How often should children visit the dentist?

Children should see the dentist every six months, beginning around their first birthday or when the first tooth appears. Regular visits allow us to monitor growth, provide age-appropriate cleanings, and establish positive dental experiences early on.

What are dental sealants?

Sealants are indicated for those patients that are cavity-prone. They cover the deep fissures in the back teeth, preventing the bacterial build-up that causes cavities. Our family dentist will evaluate if your little one needs sealants for prevention purposes.

What is the importance of baby teeth?

Yes, they are, baby teeth are there for a reason. Besides allowing your children to eat, speak and smile, baby teeth hold space for the eruption of permanent teeth. If they are lost prematurely, there are considerably higher chances of crowding in permanent dentition.

Why are oral cancer screenings important?

Oral cancer should be taken seriously, dentists play a key role in the evaluation and diagnosis. As it is usually found in the tongue, tonsils, floor of the mouth, and oropharynx, dental check-ups are crucial for its early detection and treatment. Finding cancer early (before it spreads) significantly increases the chances of recovery.

How can my family prevent cavities?

Good habits at home are key. Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, floss daily, and limit sugary snacks and drinks. Regular checkups and cleanings allow us to remove plaque buildup and apply preventive treatments when appropriate. We also recommend fluoride treatments and dental sealants to help protect against decay.

Family Dentistry in Ypsilanti, MI

Taking care of oral health at every stage of life.

Your Family’s Oral Health in Expert Hands

The highest standard of dental care in Ypsilanti, MI.

A teenage girl hugging her grandmother in the park

At Kimberly A. Rice, DDS, PLC, we are ready to treat patients of all ages. Our family dentists are trained to preserve and restore oral health in both adults and young children, so when you visit our office, you will be confident that your family will get the dental care they deserve.

Our goal is to make your visit pleasant and comfortable from the moment you step into our office. Our front-desk team will receive your family with a warm smile, and our experienced professionals will create a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. With family dentistry in Ypsilanti, MI, you’ll discover what patient-centered dentistry really means.

Our family dentists offer the following services:

Cleanings and exams
Fluoride treatments
Dental sealants & fillings
Gum disease prevention & treatment
Oral cancer screenings

Schedule an appointment with our family dentist that genuinely cares about oral health.

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Benefits of Family Dentistry in Ypsilanti, MI

The oral care your family deserves - all in one place.

Convenient

Our family dentist can assist with all your oral health needs. Whether you’re seven or seventy-seven, we have the ideal dental solution for you. Kimberly A. Rice, DDS, PLC offers various services, including hygiene visits, exams, restorative, and cosmetic procedures, all under one roof for the whole family.

Dental Exams

At Kimberly A. Rice, DDS, PLC, we perform dental exams for all ages. Our expert team of hygienists and dentists will evaluate not just your teeth and gums, but we will do an oral cancer screening as well. We help you maintain your beautiful smile, while also checking for any restorative work that you or your family may need.

Preventive Dentistry

It is crucial for your whole family to incorporate a solid oral hygiene routine and understand the importance of regular dental checkups. Our team believes this is the key to paving the way for long-lasting oral health and the best way to stop potential issues in their tracks.

Your Typical Dental Visit

Here is what to expect when you visit us for family dental care.

A family of four playing in the park while hugging

The American Dental Association (ADA) advises patients to visit a dental office at least every six months. These checkups are essential to monitor your smile (and your children’s) to help maintain oral health.

A family dentist offers an integrated approach to oral health. Our dentist can spot any issue that might affect your dental wellness and determine what is the right course of treatment for you.

When visiting a family dentist, you can expect the following:

Dental cleanings
Our expert team of hygienists uses ultrasonic devices to deep clean your teeth to get rid of dental plaque and tartar. Together you will go through brushing and flossing techniques to improve your oral hygiene routine. Hygienists may also take x-rays to evaluate with the dentist any areas that need additional services.
Clinical examination
Once the cleaning is done, our dentist will examine your smile and the x-rays to see if there’s any issue with your teeth, such as cavities or periodontal disease. Sealants or fluoride treatment might also be indicated at this stage.
Further treatment when necessary
If a dental problem arises, or if you have any cosmetic concern, our dentist will design a treatment plan that might include fillings, teeth whitening, veneers, or more complex dental procedures.

Schedule a consultation

Family Dentistry: Frequently Asked Questions

Your common questions answered by the experts.

What is the difference between a family dentist and a general dentist?
A general dentist focuses on overall oral health for adults, though many also see teens and children. A family dentist takes that a step further by providing comprehensive care tailored to patients of every age. At Kimberly Rice Dental, we’re trained to monitor growth and development in kids while also managing adult dental needs and age-related changes in the smile.
What services can a family dentist provide?

Family dentists provide a wide range of services that promote oral health at every stage of life. These typically include preventive care like cleanings and exams, fluoride treatments, dental sealants for kids, treatment for cavities, gum disease care, tooth-colored fillings, emergency care, and guidance on proper brushing and flossing.
How often do I need to visit the dental office?
The ADA advises to visit the dentist at least every six months. This will help ensure that even if a problem does arise, the team at our office will be able to catch it quickly, minimizing the cost and severity of the issue.
How often should children visit the dentist?

Children should see the dentist every six months, beginning around their first birthday or when the first tooth appears. Regular visits allow us to monitor growth, provide age-appropriate cleanings, and establish positive dental experiences early on.
What are dental sealants?
Sealants are indicated for those patients that are cavity-prone. They cover the deep fissures in the back teeth, preventing the bacterial build-up that causes cavities. Our family dentist will evaluate if your little one needs sealants for prevention purposes.
What is the importance of baby teeth?
Yes, they are, baby teeth are there for a reason. Besides allowing your children to eat, speak and smile, baby teeth hold space for the eruption of permanent teeth. If they are lost prematurely, there are considerably higher chances of crowding in permanent dentition.
Why are oral cancer screenings important?
Oral cancer should be taken seriously, dentists play a key role in the evaluation and diagnosis. As it is usually found in the tongue, tonsils, floor of the mouth, and oropharynx, dental check-ups are crucial for its early detection and treatment. Finding cancer early (before it spreads) significantly increases the chances of recovery.
How can my family prevent cavities?

Good habits at home are key. Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, floss daily, and limit sugary snacks and drinks. Regular checkups and cleanings allow us to remove plaque buildup and apply preventive treatments when appropriate. We also recommend fluoride treatments and dental sealants to help protect against decay.

We hope this FAQ helps you feel confident about choosing family dental care that fits your needs. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call us at 734-434-3820 — we’re here to support your family’s smile every step of the way.