Welcome to our comprehensive guide on the 11 most common general dentistry procedures! Whether you’re new to dental care or a seasoned pro, it’s important to have a grasp of the essential treatments that help keep your teeth and gums healthy. In this blog post, we’ll take you through everything from routine checkups and cleanings to more complex restorative procedures like fillings, root canals, and extractions.
Below are the 11 different procedures under general dentistry:
Teeth Cleaning
Teeth cleaning is one of the most common general dentistry procedures. It involves the removal of plaque and tartar from the teeth. Plaque is a sticky film of food debris, bacteria, and saliva. Tartar is a hard deposit that forms on the teeth when plaque is not removed. Teeth cleaning can be done by a dentist or dental hygienist.
X-Rays
Dental x-rays are an important tool that dentists use to evaluate the health of your teeth and mouth. They can help detect problems such as tooth decay, gum disease, and infections. Most dental x-rays are taken using a digital x-ray machine, which emits less radiation than traditional film x-ray machines.
Sealants and Fluoride Treatments
Sealants are used to protect the teeth from decay and are usually applied to the back molars. The sealant is a clear or white plastic material that is brushed on the tooth. It hardens and creates a barrier between the tooth and food particles. Sealants can last for several years but need to be checked at regular dental visits.
Fluoride treatments help to prevent cavities by making the teeth more resistant to acid attacks. Fluoride can be applied in different ways, including gels, varnishes, foams, and rinses. It is important to use fluoride products as directed by your dentist or dental hygienist.
Tooth-Colored Fillings
One of the most common procedures performed by general dentists is placing tooth-colored fillings. Tooth-colored fillings are made of composite resin, a mixture of glass and plastic, and are used to restore teeth that have been damaged by decay or injury.
Composite resin is a popular choice for tooth-colored fillings because it can be matched to the color of your natural teeth. This means that your filling will be virtually undetectable, and your smile will look completely natural.
Dental Bonding
Dental bonding is a common procedure performed by general dentists. It involves the use of a tooth-colored resin to improve the appearance of your teeth. Bonding can be used to repair chips, cracks, and gaps in your teeth. It can also be used to change the shape of your teeth or to make them look longer. The procedure is usually quick and easy, and it can be done in one visit to the dentist.
Root Canal Therapy
Root canal therapy is a dental procedure used to treat infection at the root of a tooth. The infected tissue is removed and the interior of the tooth is cleaned and sealed. Root canal therapy is typically recommended when the tooth cannot be saved with a filling or other less invasive treatment.
Symptoms that may indicate the need for root canal therapy include:
- persistent pain in the tooth
- sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
- swelling or tenderness in the gums around the tooth
- discoloration of the tooth
Dental Crowns, Bridges, and Veneers
When it comes to dental crowns, bridges, and veneers, there are a few things you should know. First, let’s start with crowns. A dental crown is a tooth-shaped “cap” that is placed over a tooth – usually to restore its shape and size, strength, or appearance. The crown covers the entire visible portion of the tooth above the gum line. Bridges are similar to crowns, but they are used to replace one or more missing teeth.
A bridge is made up of two or more crowns for the teeth on either side of the gap, with a false tooth (or pontic) in between. And lastly, veneers are thin pieces of porcelain or resin that are bonded to the front surfaces of teeth. Veneers are used to improve the appearance of teeth that are discolored, worn down, chipped, misaligned, or have gaps between them.
Invisalign Braces and Orthodontic Treatment
Invisalign braces and orthodontic treatment are two of the most common general dentistry procedures. Invisalign braces are clear, plastic aligners that are custom-made for each patient. They are virtually invisible, so they are a popular choice for patients who want to avoid metal braces. Orthodontic treatment is a type of dental procedure that helps to straighten teeth and improve the bite. It can be done with metal braces, clear braces, or Invisalign.
Gum Reshaping or Recontouring
Gum reshaping or recontouring is a relatively simple and quick procedure that can be performed in your dentist’s office. It involves gently removing excess gum tissue to even out the gum line and give you a more symmetrical smile. This procedure can be done for cosmetic reasons or to prepare your teeth for further dental work, such as veneers.
Gum reshaping is usually done using a laser, which precisely removes the unwanted tissue while minimizing bleeding and discomfort. You may feel some pressure during the procedure, but it should not be painful. The entire procedure usually takes less than an hour.
Implants and Extractions
Implants and extractions are two of the most common general dentistry procedures. Implants are used to replace missing teeth, while extractions are used to remove teeth that are damaged or decayed.
Implants are made of titanium, which is a biocompatible material that integrates with the bones in the jaw. The implant is placed into the jawbone, and a dental prosthetic (usually a tooth) is attached to the implant. Implants can be used to replace one or more missing teeth.
Extractions are performed when a tooth is damaged or decayed beyond repair. The tooth is removed from the socket in the jawbone, and the area is then cleaned and sealed. Extractions can be simple or complicated, depending on the location and condition of the tooth.
Oral Cancer
Oral cancer can develop in any part of the mouth, including the lips, gums, and tongue. It is most commonly diagnosed in people over the age of 40, and smokers are at an increased risk for developing this type of cancer. Early detection is key to successful treatment, so it is important to see a dentist regularly for check-ups.
If oral cancer is suspected, a biopsy will be performed to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment options include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. The type of treatment chosen will depend on the stage of cancer and the patient’s overall health.
