Dental procedures come in all shapes and sizes. But there are some that you’ll find in most people’s dental histories — sometimes more than once. These can be anything from a simple tooth filling to a complex root canal in Simpsonville, SC.
What Are the Most Common Dental Procedures?
Teeth Whitening
This procedure involves using a bleaching element that whitens the teeth to remove discolorations. It is a highly effective cosmetic procedure that can help your dental health and appearance.
Although there are many different teeth whitening systems, the best type is the bleaching gel. The gel contains the bleaching element applied to your teeth and then is activated by a chemical reaction that causes the teeth to whiten. The bleaching gel is then allowed to dry and is then removed from the surface of the teeth.
Teeth Cleaning
Teeth cleaning is one of the most important parts of dental hygiene. It is usually done using a toothbrush or electric toothbrush, and patients are recommended to have a dental professional clean their teeth. This dental procedure aims to remove plaque, tartar, and plaque-embedded bacteria from the teeth.
Plaque is the leading cause of dental cavities and the most common cause of tooth decay. It is mainly because the natural tooth enamel is porous and absorbs bacteria from the oral cavity. Therefore, these harmful bacteria must be removed to prevent future dental problems.
Tooth Extractions
The purpose of tooth extractions is to remove teeth that are beyond repair. The treatment can be a very invasive dental procedure or extremely simple. More complex extraction could require cutting the tooth up and pulling it out in small pieces. Simpler extractions involve using an elevator tool to uproot the tooth.
Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneer placement is one of the most popular dental procedures in the world. Veneers are thin ceramic shell-like structures used to cover the surfaces of teeth. They are used to correct discoloration, cracks, and gaps. They are also used to protect the surface of the tooth from abrasion.
The process involves the removal of a thin layer of enamel to make room for the veneers. Dental veneers give the teeth a more beautiful appearance. They also protect the teeth from future decay.
Dental Crowns
A dental crown can be made of materials that include stainless steel, gold, porcelain, or plastic. These cap-like structures perform many functions for the tooth. First, dental crowns restore the strength and function of the damaged tooth. They can also cover a dental implant to give it a more natural look.
Additionally, crowns may be used for the abutment teeth to keep dental bridges in place. Since dental crowns are made of sturdy materials, they are resistant to cavities, damage, and decay.
Fillings
Fillings are a form of restorative treatment in which filling material is put on the surface of a tooth. Fillings can be made of gold, porcelain, or other materials and are placed on the teeth to repair a cavity.
Fillings cover cracks or chips in the teeth, give the tooth a new appearance, and block bacteria from entering the teeth’s pulp. Fillings are a great preventative measure as they stop harmful bacteria from invading the tooth’s pulp.
Root Canal
A root canal is a procedure that dentists typically opt for before tooth extraction. That is because a root canal treatment can potentially save the tooth and lengthen its lifespan for many more years.
However, some patients report discomfort and pain during the procedure. But dentists explain that the pain is due to the damage and infection that the tooth is suffering from, not the process itself. Understandably, any infection should be painful, which is the same story for a damaged tooth.
With so many people taking their teeth for granted, it’s no wonder root canal treatments are one of the most popular dentistry methods in the world.
Do You Need a Root Canal in Simpsonville, SC?
A root canal procedure is the best treatment for a damaged tooth. It cleans the tooth’s pulp, removing the infection that causes the tooth to decay. At Pelham Links Family and Cosmetic Dentistry, our dentists are skilled and trained in administering the procedure.
With state-of-the-art technology and unparalleled expertise, we provide the best possible care to our patients in a comfortable environment through which our patients report positive experiences and high satisfaction rates. Do you have any questions about your oral condition or your next visit to the dentist? Let us know! Keep in touch with us today to schedule your dental visit.