Dental procedures can range from the routine to the complex, but understanding what they involve can help demystify the process and reduce anxiety. This blog post will cover some of the most common dental procedures, giving you a clearer understanding of what to expect and how they contribute to your oral health.

Routine Check-ups and Cleanings

• What they involve: Regular dental check-ups typically include an examination of your teeth, gums, and mouth by a dentist to check for any signs of disease or other problems. A professional cleaning, performed by a dental hygienist, removes plaque and tartar that can't be eliminated by brushing and flossing alone.
• Frequency: It's recommended to have a check-up and cleaning every six months, though your dentist may suggest a different frequency based on your oral health.

Fillings

• What they involve: Dental fillings are used to repair cavities or minor fractures in the teeth. The dentist will remove the decayed material from the tooth, clean the affected area, and then fill the cavity with a filling material such as composite resin, amalgam, or porcelain.
• When they're needed: When tooth decay has formed a cavity, or if a tooth is chipped or worn.

Root Canal Treatment

• What they involve: A root canal is performed to treat infected or inflamed pulp inside the tooth, often caused by severe decay, repeated dental procedures on the tooth, or a crack or chip in the tooth. The procedure involves removing the damaged area of the tooth (the pulp), cleaning and disinfecting it, then filling and sealing it.
• When they're needed: When the tooth's pulp is infected or inflamed, and the tooth can be saved.

Crowns and Bridges

• What they involve: Crowns are used to cover and protect damaged or weakened teeth, improving their appearance and alignment. Bridges are used to replace one or more missing teeth, spanning the space where the teeth are missing. Both procedures may require shaping of the teeth to fit the new structure securely.
• When they're needed: For restoring a broken tooth, covering a tooth with a large filling, protecting a weak tooth from breaking, or replacing missing teeth.

Dental Implants

• What they involve: Dental implants are used to replace missing teeth. The procedure involves inserting a metal post into the jawbone, which serves as a replacement for the tooth root, and then attaching a crown to the post once it has integrated with the bone.
• When they're needed: To replace one or more missing teeth, providing a permanent solution that mimics natural teeth in appearance and function.

Orthodontic Treatments

• What they involve: Orthodontic treatments, including braces and clear aligners, are used to correct irregularities in the teeth and jaw, such as crowding, overbite, underbite, and misalignments. These treatments gradually move the teeth into the correct position over time.
• When they're needed: For correcting teeth and jaw alignment issues, improving oral function, and enhancing aesthetic appearance.

Schedule a Visit to the Dentist

Understanding these common dental procedures can help alleviate concerns and prepare you for what to expect. Regular dental visits are crucial for maintaining oral health and catching potential issues early before they require more complex treatment. Always consult with your dentist to determine the best treatment options for your individual needs, ensuring your smile stays healthy and bright. Start by scheduling an appointment today.