Common Dental Procedures

Understanding Common Dental Procedures

Regular dental checkups and treatments are essential for maintaining good oral health. Understanding common dental procedures can help you feel more comfortable and prepared for your dental visits. Here are some of the most common dental procedures and what you can expect.

Dental Cleanings

Professional dental cleanings are typically performed every six months and are essential for maintaining good oral health. During a cleaning, your dental hygienist will:

• Remove plaque and tartar from your teeth
• Polish your teeth to remove surface stains
• Floss between your teeth
• Apply fluoride treatment if recommended
• Check for signs of gum disease or other oral health issues

Dental Fillings

Dental fillings are used to repair teeth that have been damaged by decay or trauma. The procedure involves:

• Numbing the area with local anesthesia
• Removing the decayed portion of the tooth
• Cleaning the cavity to remove bacteria
• Filling the cavity with composite resin, amalgam, or other materials
• Shaping and polishing the filling to match your natural teeth

Root Canal Therapy

Root canal therapy is performed when the pulp (nerve) of a tooth becomes infected or damaged. The procedure involves:

• Numbing the tooth and surrounding area
• Creating an opening in the crown of the tooth
• Removing the infected or damaged pulp
• Cleaning and disinfecting the root canals
• Filling the canals with a rubber-like material
• Sealing the tooth with a filling or crown

Dental Crowns

Dental crowns are tooth-shaped caps that are placed over teeth to restore their shape, size, strength, and appearance. The process typically involves:

• Preparing the tooth by removing decay and shaping it
• Taking impressions of your teeth
• Placing a temporary crown while the permanent one is made
• Cementing the permanent crown in place

Dental Bridges

Dental bridges are used to replace missing teeth by anchoring artificial teeth to adjacent natural teeth. The procedure involves:

• Preparing the adjacent teeth (abutments) by removing some enamel
• Taking impressions of your teeth
• Creating a temporary bridge
• Fitting and cementing the permanent bridge

Dental Implants

Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that are surgically placed into your jawbone. The process typically involves:

• Surgical placement of the implant into the jawbone
• A healing period of several months for osseointegration
• Attachment of an abutment to the implant
• Placement of the artificial tooth (crown)

Tooth Extractions

Tooth extractions are performed when a tooth is severely damaged or cannot be saved. The procedure involves:

• Numbing the area with local anesthesia
• Loosening the tooth from the gum and bone
• Removing the tooth
• Cleaning the extraction site
• Placing gauze to control bleeding

What to Expect During Dental Procedures

Most dental procedures follow a similar pattern:

• Consultation and treatment planning
• Administration of local anesthesia if needed
• Performance of the procedure
• Post-procedure instructions and care
• Follow-up appointments as needed

Preparing for Your Dental Visit

To make your dental visit as comfortable as possible:

• Maintain good oral hygiene before your appointment
• Arrive on time and bring any relevant medical information
• Communicate any concerns or questions with your dentist
• Follow any pre-procedure instructions provided by your dentist
• Arrange for transportation if you'll be receiving sedation