For most people, going to the dentist is simply a routine visit, in most cases involving a check-up to make sure all of their teeth are shiny, white, and in working order. But in actual fact, there is so much more dentists can do. And really, everybody should be as familiar as possible with such procedures, if only to ensure they are more confident and comfortable when making an appointment if they have any concerns with their teeth.
Here are some of the most common procedures done by a dentist:
Fillings
According to research, more than 80 percent of Americans have at least one tooth cavity by their mid-30s, and when it comes to cavities, getting a filling is usually the answer. So if you need a filling, don’t worry - you’re not alone.
If a patient is complaining of a toothache, then the first thing a dentist will do is check for a cavity or even a crack. They tend to do this visually before x-raying the tooth, ahead of filling it with either gold, silver, or porcelain. Fillings tend to be pretty quick and pain-free procedures - in some cases, the patient’s mouth might be numbed, which could last a few hours.
Dental Crowns
A crown is when the tooth is restored by placing a cap over a damaged, cracked, or broken tooth. Crowns are usually made from porcelain or metal and are typically necessary if the damage to a tooth is too big for a filling.
Just like fillings, getting a crown shouldn’t be too painful. However, this procedure generally takes more than one visit, as it involves the dentist taking a mold of your tooth ahead of the fitting.
Tooth Extractions
If a damaged or decayed tooth can’t be repaired with a filling or crown, then there is usually no other option than extracting it - or in other words, pulling it out. Of course, removing a tooth is usually the last resort, and dentists will do all they can to repair it in other ways before deciding upon extraction.
Admittedly, this procedure might sound scary and painful. However, you’ll either be unconscious, or your mouth will be totally numb - so don’t worry, you shouldn’t feel a thing.
Bridges and implants
Bridges and implants procedures are used to fill gaps in your mouth when a tooth is missing - they will also prevent other teeth from moving.
Dental bridges attach to the teeth on either side of the gap and act as a ‘bridge’ between the two teeth, while an implant involves inserting a replica tooth into the space.
A bridge can be either fixed or removable; however, if it’s fixed, it can only be removed by the dentist, while the patient can remove a removable bridge at any time. An implant is a metal post which is surgically inserted into the jaw before acting as an anchor to which the replica tooth can be attached to.
Have you booked your dentist appointment?
If you’re looking for a dentist in Cary, NC, book your appointment at Preston Dental Loft. We provide dental care that leaves you ready to smile in confidence.
