8 Common Dental Procedures

Dental procedures are necessary for maintaining healthy teeth and gums. In addition to helping to avoid severe dental issues like cavities, gum disease, and tooth loss, they are an essential component of oral wellness. Here are eight common dental procedures that you should know about.

1. Dental cleaning

Prophylaxis, also known as dental cleaning, is a regular process that includes cleaning the teeth from plaque and tartar accumulation. If neglected, plaque, a sticky coating of bacteria that develops on the teeth, can lead to cavities and gum disease.

Plaque that is not cleared leads to the formation of tartar, which is also known as calculus. Plaque and tartar are removed using specialized tools by the dental specialist during a dental cleaning, and then the teeth are polished to eliminate any remaining stains.

2. Dental filling

Teeth that have been damaged by cavities are repaired using dental fillings. When bacteria in the mouth break down sugar and carbohydrates, they produce acid that may destroy tooth enamel. This leads to the development of cavities. In order to perform a dental filling, the decayed part of the tooth must be removed, and the hole must be filled with a substance like composite resin or amalgam.

3. Root canal treatment

Root canal therapy is a process used to repair a tooth that has become infected or inflamed. This can happen if the tooth is seriously decayed or has been damaged by injuries. During a root canal, the dentist will extract the diseased or swollen pulp inside the tooth and substitute it with a filling. The molar is then secured with a crown or filling.

4. Crown

A crown is a type of dental restoration that replaces the complete visible part of a tooth. Crowns are used to fix teeth that have been severely decayed, fractured, or weakened. They can also be used to enhance the look of a tooth. Crowns are created from porcelain, metal, or a mix of both materials.

5. Dental bridge

A dental bridge is used as a replacement for one or more lost teeth. It consists of two or more crowns put on the teeth on either side of the gap, with a false tooth in between. Bridges can be created of porcelain, metal, or a mix of both materials.

6. Dental implant

A dental implant is a tooth replacement that is medically inserted into the jawbone. It consists of a titanium post that is inserted into the jawbone, a connector that joins the post to a crown or bridge, and the crown or bridge itself. Dental implants are a common choice for individuals looking for a long-term solution to missing teeth.

7. Teeth whitening

Teeth whitening is a cosmetic dentistry treatment that can make discolored or stained teeth look better. It involves breaking down spots on the teeth with a bleaching agent such as hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. The process can be performed in the dentist's office or at home using a custom-fitted tray.

8. Orthodontic treatment

Orthodontic treatment includes realigning misaligned teeth and jaws. Both clear aligners, which are detachable trays that progressively shift the teeth into the proper position, and braces, which are brackets and wires affixed to the teeth, can be used to achieve this. Orthodontic treatment can improve the look of the teeth and make them easier to maintain, lowering the risk of dental issues such as cavities and gum disease.

The bottom line

These eight typical dental treatments are essential for keeping your teeth and gums healthy. They can help you avoid severe oral issues like cavities, gum disease, and tooth loss. Make an appointment with your doctor if you have any oral issues or need a checkup as part of your routine dental care. They can suggest the best treatment plan for your specific requirements and assist you in maintaining a healthy smile.