Dental clinics offer a wide range of procedures to address various oral health needs, from routine care to advanced treatments. Understanding these procedures can help you make informed decisions about your dental care. Here’s an overview of some common and essential dental procedures you might encounter in a dental clinic near me.
Routine cleanings and check-ups
Routine cleanings and check-ups are fundamental to maintaining oral health. During a dental cleaning, a hygienist removes plaque and tartar buildup from your teeth, which helps prevent cavities and gum disease. Regular check-ups, typically scheduled every six to twelve months, allow the dentist to examine your teeth and gums for any signs of issues, such as decay or periodontal disease, and to provide timely treatment.
Fillings
Fillings are used to restore teeth damaged by cavities. The procedure involves removing decayed tooth material and filling the cavity with a material such as composite resin, amalgam, or glass ionomer. Fillings help restore the tooth’s function and prevent further decay. Composite resin fillings are often preferred for their natural appearance and ability to blend with the surrounding tooth structure.
Root canals
A root canal is a procedure used to treat an infected or damaged tooth pulp. During the treatment, the dentist removes the infected pulp from inside the tooth, cleans and disinfects the root canals, and seals them with a material. A crown is usually placed on the tooth to restore its strength and function. Root canals help save teeth that would otherwise need extraction and alleviate pain caused by infection.
Crowns and bridges
Crowns are used to cover and protect a damaged or weakened tooth. They can restore the tooth’s shape, size, and function. Bridges, instead, are used to replace one or more missing teeth by anchoring artificial teeth to adjacent natural teeth or implants. Both crowns and bridges are custom-made to fit your mouth and blend smoothly with your natural teeth.
Cosmetic dentistry
Cosmetic dentistry focuses on improving the appearance of your teeth and smile. Procedures include teeth whitening, veneers, and bonding. Teeth whitening can brighten discolored teeth, while veneers are thin shells of porcelain or composite resin that cover the front of teeth to improve their appearance. Bonding involves applying a tooth-colored resin to repair chips, cracks, or gaps.