When it comes to maintaining a healthy lifestyle, oral health is often overlooked. But, taking care of your teeth and gums is essential for overall wellbeing. That’s why it’s important to understand the different types of dental procedures out there and how they can help keep your smile looking and feeling its best. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most common dental procedures and what you need to know about them.
Cleanings
A simple cleaning, also known as prophylaxis, is the most basic type of dental procedure. This procedure involves removing plaque and tartar buildup from your teeth with special tools. Plaque and tartar are made up of bacteria that can cause gum disease if left unchecked. Regular cleanings are necessary to keep bacteria levels low in order to maintain good oral hygiene.
Fillings
Fillings are another common procedure used by dentists to repair cavities or small fractures in the tooth enamel caused by tooth decay or damage from biting down too hard on something hard like ice cubes or popcorn kernels. Fillings can be made from composite material, porcelain, or gold depending on the severity of the issue being treated. Fillings are an effective way to restore a tooth’s strength and function while also preventing further damage caused by cavities or fractures.
Root Canal Therapy
Root canal therapy is used when the pulp inside a tooth becomes infected due to deep decay or trauma that has affected both the enamel and dentin layers of the tooth. This treatment involves removing infected tissue from inside the root canal before filling it back up with a special material that will prevent further infection from occurring. Root canal therapy can save an otherwise damaged tooth from having to be extracted, thus preserving its functionality for years to come.
Dental procedures play an important role in keeping our teeth healthy and strong, but understanding which type of procedure you may need can be daunting! However, with knowledge comes power—so make sure you do your research before visiting your dentist so that you know exactly what kind of dental treatment you may need for optimal oral health! If you have any questions about common dental procedures or would like more information on how we can help improve your smile, contact our office today! We’d be happy to answer any questions you may have!
