Visiting the dentist can be a nerve-wracking experience, especially if you’re unfamiliar with common dental procedures. Understanding what to expect can help alleviate anxiety and ensure a smoother visit. Let’s break down some of the most common dental procedures:
Teeth Cleaning (Prophylaxis)
This is the cornerstone of oral hygiene. Your dental hygienist will remove plaque and tartar buildup using specialized tools. This procedure helps prevent gum disease and cavities.
Fillings
Cavities happen, but they’re easily treatable. A filling replaces decayed tooth material with a composite resin, amalgam, or other material to restore the tooth’s function and appearance.
Teeth Whitening
Looking for a brighter smile? Teeth whitening is a popular cosmetic procedure that lightens the color of your teeth. It can be done in-office or at home using professional-strength products.
Extractions
Sometimes, a tooth may need to be removed. This is called an extraction. Reasons for extractions include severe decay, infection, or wisdom tooth impaction.
Crowns
A crown is a tooth-shaped cap that covers a damaged tooth. It can be used to strengthen a weak tooth, improve its appearance, or protect a tooth after a root canal.
Root Canals
A root canal is a procedure to remove infected or damaged pulp from the inside of a tooth. It’s often followed by a crown to protect the tooth.
Dental Implants
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that are surgically placed into the jawbone. They provide a strong foundation for replacement teeth, such as crowns, bridges, or dentures.
Orthodontics (Braces)
Orthodontics is used to correct crooked, crowded, or misaligned teeth. Traditional metal braces and clear aligners like Invisalign are common options.
