This guide explores some of the most common dental procedures, providing insights into what happens before, during, and after treatment.
1.Teeth Cleanings and Checkups:
What it is: This is the most frequent dental procedure, involving professional removal of plaque and tartar buildup, followed by fluoride application to strengthen teeth.
What to expect: The dentist or hygienist uses a scaler and polisher to remove plaque and tartar. X-rays might be taken to check for hidden cavities or other issues. Expect a painless and comfortable experience.
Aftercare: Brush and floss regularly to maintain good oral hygiene. Schedule routine cleanings every six months.
2.Fillings:
What it is: Cavities, or holes in teeth, are treated with fillings. The dentist removes decayed material and fills the cavity with a biocompatible material like composite resin, amalgam, or porcelain.
What to expect: Local anesthesia numbs the area. The dentist drills away decay, cleans the cavity, and places the filling material. Some discomfort during drilling is normal, but the filling itself shouldn't cause pain.
Aftercare: Practice good oral hygiene. Avoid chewing hard objects on the filled tooth. Follow the dentist's instructions for any necessary sensitivity management.
3.Crowns:
What it is: When a tooth is severely damaged or a large filling is needed, a crown is used to restore its function and appearance. Crowns are custom-made caps that fit over the remaining tooth structure.
What to expect: Depending on the extent of damage, some tooth preparation might be required. An impression is taken to create a custom crown. A temporary crown might be placed while the permanent one is being made. The permanent crown is then cemented onto the prepared tooth.
Dental Crowns procedure
Aftercare: Maintain good oral hygiene. Avoid chewing hard objects on the crowned tooth. Schedule regular checkups to monitor the crown's condition.
4.Root Canals:
What it is: When decay reaches the inner pulp of the tooth, causing inflammation and pain, a root canal is performed. The infected pulp is removed, the canals are cleaned and disinfected, and the tooth is sealed.
What to expect: The procedure might take one or more appointments, depending on the complexity. Local anesthesia numbs the area. The dentist drills a small opening into the tooth to access the pulp, cleans and shapes the canals, and fills them with a sealing material. A temporary filling or crown might be placed until a permanent restoration is done. Discomfort after the procedure is normal and manageable with pain medication.
Root Canal procedure
Aftercare: Practice good oral hygiene. Avoid chewing hard objects on the treated tooth. A permanent crown is usually recommended to protect the weakened tooth. Follow the dentist's instructions for pain management and oral hygiene.
5.Extractions:
What it is: Tooth extraction involves removing a tooth that is severely damaged, impacted, or causing other problems.
What to expect: Local anesthesia numbs the area. The dentist loosens the tooth and carefully removes it. Stitches might be placed to close the extraction site. Some discomfort and swelling after the procedure are normal and subside within a few days.
Tooth Extraction procedure
Aftercare: Bite on gauze to control bleeding. Apply ice packs to reduce swelling. Avoid strenuous activity and hot liquids. Maintain good oral hygiene around the extraction site. Follow the dentist's instructions for pain management and wound care.
6.Orthodontic Treatment:
What it is: Braces or aligners are used to gradually move teeth into proper alignment, correcting overcrowding, gaps, or bite problems.
What to expect: The dentist takes impressions and X-rays to develop a treatment plan. Braces or aligners are bonded to the teeth and adjusted periodically to guide tooth movement. Discomfort during adjustments is normal, and some speech impediments might occur temporarily. Treatment time varies depending on the severity of the misalignment.
Orthodontic Treatment procedure
Aftercare: Maintain good oral hygiene, paying particular attention to flossing around braces or under aligners. Avoid hard or sticky foods that can damage the appliances. Attend regular checkups and adjustments as scheduled.
7.Dental Implants:
What it is: Dental implants are small titanium screws surgically placed in the jawbone to replace missing teeth.