Regular visits to the dentist are crucial for maintaining overall well-being. But have you ever wondered what procedures prompt the most dental visits? Wonder no more.
We’ve compiled a detailed dental procedures list, explaining how each process works, and how they can benefit your dental health.
Key Takeaways:
- Every common dental procedure helps to maintain dental health, enhance aesthetic appeal, and prevent future dental issues.
- The most common dental procedures include teeth cleaning, whitening, extractions, implants, and dentures.
Table of Contents
The 10 Most Common Dental Procedures and How They Work
Here are the most common dental procedures that dentists attend to:
1. Teeth Cleaning
Teeth cleaning is the most common dental procedure and probably the easiest and most comfortable visit you can make.
Professional teeth cleaning involves removing plaque and tartar from the teeth surfaces, especially where regular brushing and flossing might not reach. Dentists or hygienists use specialized tools to gently clean teeth, which helps prevent cavities and gum disease.
2. Teeth Whitening
Teeth whitening is one of the most popular cosmetic dental procedures for enhancing the brightness of teeth. The dentist applies a whitening agent to the teeth, sometimes using a laser or light to accelerate the whitening process.
3. Tooth Extraction
You’ve probably had a tooth extracted or know someone who has undergone the procedure. Although it’s daunting for many, sometimes it may be the only best solution for your predicament.
The dentist typically numbs the area around the tooth with anesthesia and then uses instruments to loosen and remove the tooth. It’s a common procedure for teeth damaged by disease, trauma, or crowding.
4. Dental Fillings
Cavities are a nuisance and fillings offer much-needed relief. They are typically used to restore teeth damaged by decay back to their normal function and shape. After removing the decayed tooth material, the dentist cleans and fills the affected area with a filling material such as gold, porcelain, or composite resin.
5. Dental Crowns
If your cavity has caused significant damage, your dentist may recommend a crown as a solution. Crowns cover and protect damaged or weak teeth, improving their appearance and alignment.
After preparing the tooth, the dentist makes an impression of it and crafts a crown to match the rest of your teeth in shape and color.
6. Dental Bridges
Bridges are used to replace one or more missing teeth. They literally “bridge” the space where the teeth are missing. The prosthetics are anchored on either side by crowns and cemented permanently into place.
Bridges are an important option not only for cosmetic improvement but also for restoring functionality, such as chewing and speaking. They also prevent existing teeth from shifting out of position, which can lead to other dental issues.
7. Root Canal Treatment
Root canal treatment is infamous for its long duration and tooth pain. However, it offers lasting and effective treatment for infected or badly decayed teeth.
Here’s how it works; the damaged area of the tooth (the pulp) is removed, cleaned, disinfected, filled, and sealed to prevent further infection. It may take a few visits to fix the implants and some antibiotics to prevent infection and severe pain.
8. Dental Implants
Implants provide a durable foundation for fixed (permanent) or removable replacement. A titanium post is surgically positioned into the jawbone beneath the gum line, allowing the dentist to mount replacement teeth or a bridge.
9. Orthodontic Treatments
These treatments correct irregularities in the teeth and jaw, often using braces or clear aligners, also called invisalign. The devices gradually shift teeth into the desired position over time, based on the specific needs of the patient.
10. Dentures
Dentures are often associated with old age but more people are seeking denture prosthetics for better oral health.
The dentist will take an impression of your teeth and create perfectly fitting dentures that can replace teeth naturally. Common options include immediate, partial, and complete dentures. It may take time to get your set of dentures, but regaining your confidence and teeth functionality makes the journey worth the wait.
Restore Your Health and Confidence at Premier Dentures
Are you ready to improve your smile and enhance your dental health? At Premier Dentures, we offer a wide range of dental services tailored to meet your unique needs.
From state-of-the-art denture solutions to comprehensive dental care, our denture specialists are here to ensure you receive the highest quality treatment. Schedule your consultation today and let’s help you regain optimum oral health.
