Most Common General Dentistry Procedures

When you think of taking care of your health, general dentistry plays a vital role. It's the foundation of oral health and wellness. You visit the dental clinic near you for check-ups, cleanings, and treatments to ensure your teeth stay in top condition. But what exactly happens during these visits, and why are they important? This guide will walk you through the most common general dentistry procedures, helping you understand their value and how they contribute to your overall well-being.

Routine Dental Exams and Cleanings

One of the most common visits you'll make to the dentist in 91767 is for a routine exam and cleaning. These appointments are essential for maintaining healthy teeth and gums. What to Expect During a Dental Check-Up During a check-up, your dentist near you will examine your mouth, checking for any symptoms of decay, gum disease, or other issues. They'll look at your teeth, gums, and even your tongue. X-rays might be taken to get a closer look at areas not conspicuous to the naked eye. This thorough examination helps identify any problems early, making them easier to treat. The Role of Professional Cleanings in Preventing Oral Issues Professional cleaning goes beyond just a polish. Even with good at-home brushing and flossing, plaque and tartar can build up or accumulate in hard-to-reach places. Your dental hygienist will remove this buildup, reducing your risk of cavities and gum disease. Cleanings leave your mouth feeling fresh and help prevent more serious issues down the line.

Dental Fillings for Cavities

No one likes hearing they have a cavity, but fillings are a common and necessary treatment in general dentistry near you. They help restore the function of a tooth that has been damaged by decay. Common Materials Used in Fillings Fillings can be made of various materials. The most common are amalgam (silver) and composite (tooth-colored) fillings. Amalgam fillings are durable and often used in back teeth where the chewing force is stronger. Composite fillings are preferred for visible areas because they mix or blend in with your natural tooth color. How Fillings Help Preserve Tooth Structure When decay is removed from a tooth, the filling is placed to fill the gap. This prevents further decay and restores the tooth's strength. Without a filling, the tooth would continue to decay, potentially leading to more severe problems like infections or even the need for an extraction.

Tooth Extractions: When and Why They're Necessary

Sometimes, despite our best efforts, a tooth may need to be eliminated. Extractions are often necessary when a tooth is too damaged to be saved. Situations That Call for Tooth Removal There are several reasons a tooth might need to be extracted. Severe decay, trauma, or crowding can all lead to the need for removal. Wisdom teeth are also commonly extracted to prevent them from causing problems with your other teeth. The Extraction Process: What Patients Should Know If you need an extraction, your dentist will make sure you're comfortable throughout the process. The area around the tooth will be numbed, and the dentist will carefully remove the tooth. Afterward, they'll give you instructions on how to care for the area to make sure of proper healing.

Crowns and Bridges for Tooth Restoration

When a tooth is too damaged to be repaired with a filling, crowns and bridges are often used to restore its function and appearance. Differences Between Crowns and Bridges A damaged tooth is protected and given back its proper size and shape by a crown, which is a cap. A bridge is utilized to replace one or more lost teeth. It's anchored to the teeth on either side of the gap, filling in the space with a natural-looking replacement. How These Procedures Restore Function and Appearance Since bridges and crowns are made to go along with your natural teeth, they look natural in your smile. They're strong and durable, allowing you to eat and speak comfortably. Additionally, they aid in preventing the misalignment of other teeth, which can result in more problems.

Root Canal Treatment: Saving a Damaged Tooth

Root canals have a bit of a bad reputation, but they're actually a valuable procedure that can salvage a tooth that might otherwise be lost. Signs You Might Need a Root Canal If you have a tooth that's causing you pain, especially when you chew or touch it, you might need a root canal. Other signs are:

• Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold.
• Swelling in the gums near the tooth.
• A darkening of the tooth itself.

How Root Canal Therapy Preserves Your Natural Tooth During a root canal, the dentist eliminates the infected or damaged tooth pulp from the tooth's interior. The space is then cleaned and sealed. This procedure not only relieves pain but also saves your tooth from extraction. A crown is typically placed over it afterward to preserve and restore the tooth's function.

Conclusion

General dentistry covers various procedures that are essential for maintaining good oral health. From regular exams to more complex procedures like root canals and extractions, these treatments keep healthy teeth and gums as well as your smile radiant. Taking care of your teeth isn't just about avoiding problems; it's about preserving your health and confidence.

Ready to Schedule Your Next Dental Visit?

If you're due for a check-up or have concerns about your dental health, don't wait. Book your appointment today with Pomona Dental Practice and take the next step towards a healthier smile. Going for routine check-ups to the dentist is the key to long-term oral health, and we're here to help you every step of the way.