Published by Piedmont Dental by Design | Piedmont, CA | Family & General Dentistry
Overview
Selecting a family dentist represents one of the most important health decisions households can make. At Piedmont Dental by Design, partners Dr. Jill Martenson and Dr. David Ma—along with their team—have served families across Piedmont, Oakland, Berkeley, Rockridge, Montclair, and the greater East Bay for three decades. They recognize that every family member deserves individualized, compassionate, and specialized care.
General dentistry extends beyond routine cleanings and fillings. It establishes a comprehensive, ongoing relationship that monitors oral health over time, identifies problems early, and provides patients with education and tools for prevention.
What Does a General Dentist Do?
A general or family dentist functions as your primary oral health provider, similar to a primary care physician. Services at Piedmont Dental by Design include:
- Comprehensive oral exams with digital X-rays (80–90% less radiation)
- Professional teeth cleanings and plaque removal
- Cavity detection and tooth-colored composite fillings
- Gum disease screening and periodontal maintenance
- Custom nightguards and athletic mouthguards
- Oral cancer screenings at every visit
- CEREC same-day ceramic crowns
- Dental bridges and root canal therapy
- Specialist referrals for complex cases
Why Local Families Choose This Practice
30 Years Serving the East Bay
Dr. Martenson has built multigenerational relationships with patients. Families who began care with young children now bring their own offspring.
Award-Winning Patient Experience
Piedmont Dental by Design earned recognition as Best of the East Bay 2024 and 2025 based on patient satisfaction and community trust.
One Practice for the Whole Family
Consolidating care in one welcoming environment simplifies scheduling and enables consistent health tracking across all ages.
Flexible Scheduling and Insurance Coordination
The practice works with most major insurance plans and offers flexible appointment options for busy families.
The Connection Between Oral and Overall Health
Research confirms that chronic gum disease links to elevated risks of heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, respiratory infections, and adverse pregnancy outcomes. Regular dental evaluations assess soft tissues, bite alignment, the temporomandibular joint, and early systemic disease indicators often visible in the mouth first.
What to Expect at Your First Visit
New patients receive a thorough appointment including comprehensive oral exam, full-mouth digital X-rays, periodontal assessment, oral cancer screening, and a personalized treatment plan tailored to individual health goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I visit? Most adults and children benefit from cleanings and exams every six months, though those with gum disease or frequent cavities may need visits every three to four months.
When should my child have their first dental visit? The American Dental Association recommends a first visit by age one or within six months of the first tooth erupting.
Does the practice accept dental insurance? Yes, Piedmont Dental by Design works with most major plans. The front office team verifies benefits and maximizes coverage.
How does a general dentist differ from a specialist? General dentists provide broad, comprehensive care as your primary provider. Specialists focus on specific areas, and Dr. Martenson and Dr. Ma refer patients when needed.
Is the practice accepting new patients? Yes, Piedmont Dental by Design welcomes new patients from Piedmont, Oakland, Rockridge, Berkeley, and surrounding East Bay communities.
Contact Information:
- Phone: (510) 350-3937
- Address: 1331 Grand Ave, Piedmont, CA 94610
