Oral health is an important part of your overall well-being, but it is often overlooked until something goes wrong. General dentistry is the branch of dentistry that deals with the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of oral diseases and disorders. This blog post will review some of the most common general dentistry procedures and why they are important for maintaining good oral health.
Regular Dental Examinations
Regular dental examinations are essential for maintaining good oral health. During your dental examination, your dentist will check your teeth for cavities, gum disease, and other oral health problems. They may also take X-rays to identify issues that are not visible to the naked eye. If any issues are found, your dentist will discuss treatment options.
Professional Teeth Cleaning
Professional teeth cleaning is another important part of general dentistry. Even if you brush and floss regularly, plaque can still build up on your teeth over time. A professional cleaning can remove this buildup and help prevent cavities and gum disease. Your dentist or dental hygienist will use special tools to remove plaque and tartar from your teeth and may also polish them to remove surface stains.
Fillings
If you have a cavity, your dentist will likely recommend a filling. Fillings are used to repair holes in your teeth caused by decay. They are typically made of composite resin or amalgam and can be color-matched to your teeth for a natural look. A filling can help prevent the cavity from worsening and reduce the risk of needing a more invasive procedure like a root canal.
Root Canal Therapy
If a cavity is left untreated, it can eventually reach the pulp of your tooth, which houses the nerves and blood vessels. When this happens, the only way to save the tooth may be with a root canal. During a root canal, the pulp is removed and the tooth is cleaned and sealed. After the procedure, a dental crown may be placed on the tooth to protect it.
Extractions
In some cases, a tooth may be too damaged to be saved and will need to be extracted. This can happen due to severe decay, trauma, or crowding. Your dentist typically uses a local anesthetic to numb the area around the tooth before removing it. If a tooth is extracted, a replacement option like a dental implant or bridge may be recommended to prevent issues like shifting teeth or difficulty chewing.
Contact a general dentistry clinic to learn more.
Share25 October 2023
Being born with naturally soft teeth, I've spent a lot of time in and out of the dentist's office. Not only have I learned a lot about basic dental care, I've also discovered many tips for dealing with broken teeth, extractions, implants, and more. I decided that I wanted to make the most of my experience by sharing what I've learned with others. True first-hand experience is a great teacher, and I knew that my story could help. I created this site to do just that, and I hope that the information here helps you to understand what to expect from your dental problems.