Are you feeling some pain or discomfort in your teeth? Are you looking for ways to improve your oral health and smile? If so, there are a variety of dental procedures that can help. From basic cleanings to more complex services like root canals and crowns, dentists offer a range of treatments designed to keep your teeth healthy and attractive.

This blog discusses some of the most common dental procedures you may want to consider. Understanding these procedures will help you make informed decisions about your dental health and ensure you receive the best care for your teeth and gums.

Teeth Cleanings:

Teeth cleanings, also known as prophylaxis, are routine dental procedures that involve the removal of plaque, tartar, and stains from the teeth. This procedure is recommended at least twice a year to maintain good oral health.

During a teeth cleaning appointment, the dental hygienist or dentist will use special instruments to remove the buildup of plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line. This process is known as scaling and helps prevent gum disease, tooth decay, and bad breath.

After scaling, the teeth are polished using a special paste to remove surface stains and smoothen the teeth’s surface. Polishing makes it more difficult for plaque to accumulate on the teeth, helping maintain oral hygiene.

Additionally, airflow hygiene treatment, known as air polishing or air abrasion, has gained popularity due to its effectiveness and patient-friendly approach. This dental procedure offers several benefits for maintaining optimal oral hygiene. It effectively removes plaque, tartar, and stubborn stains caused by substances like coffee, tea, and tobacco, enhancing the cosmetic appearance of teeth. Unlike traditional scaling and polishing, airflow treatment is gentler on the gums, reducing the risk of irritation and bleeding. It’s also preferable for those with sensitive teeth, minimizing discomfort and post-procedure sensitivity.

Dental Crowns:

Also known as caps, dental crowns are a type of dental restoration that cover the entire visible portion of teeth. They are commonly used to restore the shape, size, and strength of damaged teeth and improve their appearance.

It’s best to know about the different types of dental crowns & cost before you make a decision. While your dentist can provide this information, it’s best to do some research before your visit. Below are some details on some common dental crown types.

• Porcelain crowns: These are made of porcelain and can be matched to the color of your natural teeth, making them an excellent option for front teeth. However, porcelain crowns are prone to chipping or cracking.
• Zirconia crowns: These are a type of all-ceramic dental crown made of a material called zirconium oxide. Zirconia is known for its strength and durability.
• Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns: These crowns have a metal base with a porcelain covering. They are stronger than porcelain crowns and more aesthetically pleasing than metal crowns.
• Gold crowns: These crowns are made of pure gold and are very strong, durable, and long-lasting.
• E-Max crowns: E-Max crowns are a type of all-ceramic dental crown that is made of a material called lithium disilicate.

Additionally, it is important to discuss your options with your dentist and insurance provider to select the best course of action.

Extractions:

It is a common dental procedure in which a tooth is extracted from its bone socket. It may be necessary for various reasons, such as severe decay, infection, overcrowding, gum disease, or injury to the tooth.

There are two common types of extractions: surgical and simple. Simple extractions are performed on visible teeth that can be easily accessed and loosened using an elevator, followed by forceps to gently rock the tooth back and forth until it can be removed.

Surgical extractions are more complex and involve making an incision into the gum tissue to access a tooth that is not visible or impacted, which means it is stuck in the bone or under the gum line. The tooth may need to be sectioned and removed in pieces to minimize trauma to the surrounding tissue.

The duration of a surgical tooth extraction varies depending on the complexity, the number of teeth extracted, the patient’s medical record, and the oral surgeon’s experience. Generally, a single tooth extraction may take around 20 minutes to an hour or more. Multiple teeth extraction and complex cases necessitate more prolonged procedures. Factors influencing the length include the tooth’s depth, bone density, anesthesia administration, incisions, and bone removal. Unexpected issues like tooth breakage or bleeding can extend the procedure.

After an extraction, proper care will be required, including avoiding hard or crunchy foods, applying an ice pack to reduce swelling, and taking pain medication or antibiotics if necessary.

Root Canal:

Dentists often perform a root canal to save an infected or damaged tooth. The dentist removes the infected tissue inside the root of the tooth to alleviate pain and prevent further damage. It may be necessary when the soft tissue in the tooth that contains blood vessels and nerves is inflamed or infected due to deep decay, repeated dental procedures, or a chip or crack in that tooth.

Dentists like Australian Dental Specialists often perform a root canal to save an infected or damaged tooth. The dentist removes the infected tissue inside the root of the tooth to alleviate pain and prevent further damage.

The root canal procedure typically involves several steps and is performed after administering local anesthesia to ensure the patient is comfortable. After the procedure, it is common to experience some sensitivity or discomfort in the treated tooth, which patients can manage with over-the-counter pain medication. Practicing good oral hygiene habits, such as flossing, brushing regularly, and attending regular dental checkups, is important to prevent the need for root canals.

Fillings:

A dental filling is a typical dental treatment for treating cavities or small areas of tooth decay. Dentists fix a cavity by removing the decayed part of the tooth and replacing it with dental material like amalgam, composite resin, or porcelain. The filling material used depends on various factors, such as the cavity’s position, size, and the patient’s choices.

Amalgam fillings consist of a blend of metals, including silver, tin, copper, and mercury, known for their durability but noticeable silver-gray appearance. Composite resin fillings, composed of plastic resin and fine glass particles, are tooth-colored and aesthetically appealing, making them ideal for visible teeth. However, they may require occasional replacement. Porcelain fillings, inlays, and onlays are ceramic restorations, known for their natural appearance, strength, and resistance to staining. They are often used when aesthetics and durability are crucial, particularly for larger cavities or cosmetic purposes.

Local anesthesia is typically used during fillings to ensure the patient’s comfort. The dentist will first numb the area around the tooth to be treated, then remove the decayed portion of the tooth using specialized tools. Once the cavity is cleaned and prepared, the filling material will be placed and shaped to match the natural contours of the tooth. The filling will then be cured or hardened using a special light, and the tooth will be polished to restore its natural appearance.

However, it is common to experience some sensitivity or discomfort in the treated tooth, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication.

Conclusion:

There are a variety of different dental procedures you may want to consider. Whether it’s preventative care, cosmetic dentistry, restorative treatments, or even orthodontic adjustments, these options help improve oral health.

Remember to consult your dentist for appropriate advice before you choose any procedure to ensure you don’t risk your health and get the treatment you need most. Additionally, be sure to ask about the cost and any related insurance coverage that may be available.

Remember to read up on reviews or speak with others who have had similar procedures done, and this could give you insight into what potential results or side effects to expect. Don’t let fear or anxiety prevent you from taking charge of your oral health. Take the time now and step towards a brighter and healthier smile.