Dentistry is a broad field that encompasses several procedures and treatments aimed at maintaining oral health. The common dentist procedures and treatments range from preventive measures to complex surgical interventions, all designed to preserve the structure, function, and aesthetics of the teeth.
One of the most common dental procedures is dental cleaning or prophylaxis. This procedure involves removing plaque and tartar build-up on the tooth surfaces and along the gum line, which can cause gum disease if left untreated. Dental cleanings are typically recommended every six months as part of a regular check-up.
Next in line is dental fillings. These are used to treat cavities or tooth decay, which occur when bacteria erode parts of the tooth enamel. The dentist removes decayed portions of the tooth and fills them with materials like amalgam, composite resin or porcelain.
Another prevalent procedure is root canal treatment. This treatment becomes necessary when an infection reaches deep into the tooth’s pulp chamber – causing severe pain. During a root canal procedure, infected pulp tissue is removed; then, it’s cleaned out before being filled up again to prevent further infection.
Dental crowns are also commonly used dive in for more restoring damaged teeth due to decay or trauma. They’re custom-made caps that cover entire teeth from top to bottom providing strength while improving their appearance too.
Orthodontic treatments such as braces or aligners aim at correcting misaligned teeth and jaw structures for better functionality and aesthetic appeal — they help straighten crooked teeth or fix bite issues over time through constant pressure application.
For those who’ve lost one or more teeth due to injury or disease, dental implants offer a permanent solution by replacing missing roots with titanium posts surgically placed into your jawbone — these then support artificial replacement teeth affixed on top.
Tooth extraction is another standard procedure performed when a tooth has been severely damaged beyond repair either due to decay, disease or trauma — wisdom tooth removal falls under this category too.
Lastly, teeth whitening is a popular cosmetic dental procedure that helps remove stains and discoloration to enhance the appearance of one’s smile. It involves applying a bleaching agent on the tooth surface to lighten its color.
In conclusion, dentistry offers an array of procedures and treatments geared towards maintaining oral health and enhancing smiles. Whether it’s preventive measures like cleanings or corrective interventions such as root canals or orthodontic treatment, these procedures play a crucial role in ensuring healthy teeth and gums. Therefore, regular dental visits are vital for early detection and treatment of potential issues before they escalate into severe problems.
