Did you know that over 90% of adults will experience at least one dental problem in their lifetime? In fact, according to the American Dental Association, common dental treatments can range from simple cleaning to more complex procedures like root canals.
Fortunately, by understanding what each treatment involves, you can make informed decisions about your oral health. So, with that being said, here is a breakdown of five of the most common dental treatments.
5 Common dental treatments
Here are 5 of the most common dental treatments you might need at some point in your life.
Teeth cleaning
Also called prophylaxis, teeth cleanings are a preventative measure used to remove tartar, plaque, and stains from teeth. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth. If it’s not removed, it can harden into tartar which can only be removed by a professional cleaning.
A teeth cleaning is usually performed by a dental hygienist. During a cleaning, your dental hygienist will use their professional tools to remove the plaque and tartar from your teeth. The hygienist will then use special instruments to clean between the teeth and below the gumline.
Afterward, the teeth will be polished to remove any surface stains. The final step is to floss the teeth to remove any lingering debris.
It is important to have your teeth cleaned on a regular basis in order to prevent cavities, gum disease, and other oral health problems.
Fillings
If you have a cavity, your dentist will likely recommend a filling. A filling is used to restore a tooth that has been damaged by decay. The first step in getting a filling is for your dentist to remove the decayed portion of the tooth. Once the decay has been removed, your dentist will fill the tooth with a composite resin material.
Crowns
Dental crowns, also known as ‘caps,’ is a type of dental restoration used to cover a tooth that is damaged or decayed in order to restore the function and appearance of the tooth. They are often used to treat teeth that have been damaged by decay or injury.
However, crowns can also be used to support a tooth that has had a root canal or a tooth with a large filling when there isn’t enough tooth left to hold the filling. In addition, crowns are sometimes placed on top of implants to provide a natural-looking tooth.
The first step in getting a crown is to have an X-ray taken of the mouth in order to check the health of the underlying teeth. The dentist will then numb the area around the tooth before preparing it for the crown.
This involves removing any decayed dental tissue and shaping the tooth so that the crown can fit over it. Once the tooth has been prepared, an impression of the prepared tooth is then made in order to create the custom-made crown.
While the crown is being made, the patient will be given a temporary crown to wear. Once the permanent crown is ready, the dentist will cement it in place.
Crowns are generally made from porcelain, ceramic, or metal. However, they can also be made from a combination of these materials.
Extractions
This common dental treatment is performed when a tooth is severely damaged or decayed. An extraction involves removing the tooth from its socket in the jawbone. Your dentist will first numb the area around the tooth and then use special instruments to loosen the tooth before it’s pulled out. After the extraction, your dentist will place a gauze pad over the socket to help stop the bleeding.
Root Canal
A root canal is a type of endodontic therapy used to save a tooth that has been severely damaged by decay or injury. It is also sometimes necessary to treat an abscessed tooth.
The first step in getting a root canal is to have an X-ray taken of the mouth in order to determine the extent of the damage. The dentist will then numb the area around the tooth before drilling into it. Once the dentist has access to the inner pulp chamber, they will remove any decayed dental tissue.
After removing the infection, the dentist will fill the tooth with a composite resin material. A metal or ceramic crown will then be placed over the tooth to restore it to its original shape and size.
Root canals are often feared by patients. However, they are quite a common procedure and are usually no more painful than getting a filling.
Conclusion
These are just a few of the most common dental treatments you may need at some point in your life. Whether you need a simple cleaning or a more complex procedure, understanding what each treatment involves can help you make informed decisions about your oral health.