Maintaining a healthy smile isn’t only about brushing and flossing regularly—it often involves undergoing various dental procedures to address issues that may arise. Whether it’s a routine dental check-up or a more complex treatment, becoming informed about common dental procedures can alleviate any anxiety and help you understand the importance of each step in your oral health care.
Keep on reading to find out what you can expect from your Utah dentist.
Understanding the 5 Most Common Dental Procedures
Each of the following dental procedures serves unique functions in maintaining your oral health. We will discuss the process, reasons they are performed, and what you can expect.
1. Dental Cleaning (Prophylaxis)
A routine dental cleaning, also known as prophylaxis, is a preventive measure. While brushing and flossing are crucial daily habits, there are areas in your mouth that may not receive thorough cleaning, which can lead to the accumulation of plaque and tartar. A professional dental cleaning helps you reach those places and eliminates tartar to prevent future dental problems.
- The Procedure: During a typical dental cleaning, your dentist or dental hygienist will use special instruments to remove plaque and tartar from your teeth. This process, called scaling, is followed by polishing to remove any remaining stains. Finally, the dentist will floss your teeth to ensure they are perfectly clean.
- Benefits:Regular cleanings can help maintain healthy gums, reduce bad breath, and can even assist in the early identification of potential issues. They are also a great way to prevent cavities and stains, thus maintaining a brighter smile.
2. Tooth Extraction
Tooth extraction is a dental procedure where a tooth is removed from the mouth. This is typically a last resort after all attempts to save the tooth have been exhausted, and it’s necessary to protect the health of the surrounding teeth, gums, and jawbone.
- Reasons for Extraction: Tooth extractions are performed for various reasons, including severe decay, tooth infection or abscess, overcrowding, periodontal (gum) disease, and to prepare for orthodontic treatment.
3. Dental Fillings
When a tooth develops a cavity, a dental filling is used to restore the tooth’s function and structure. This common procedure is often performed after your Utah dentist has removed the decayed portion of your tooth.
- Filling Procedure: The dental filling procedure involves numbing the tooth with a local anesthetic, removing the decay, and cleaning the affected area. The chosen filling material is then placed in the cavity and shaped to blend with the tooth’s natural contours.
4. Root Canal Therapy
Root canal therapy is a common procedure used by Utah dentists that is used to repair and save a tooth that is badly decayed or becomes infected. Without intervention, the tissue surrounding the tooth will become infected and abscesses can form, which leads to pain and the potential loss of the tooth.
- Root Canal Procedure: The dentist or endodontist removes the damaged area of the tooth (the pulp), cleans and disinfects it, and then fills and seals it. The treated tooth is then protected with a crown or a filling for restoration.
5. Dental Crown Placement
A dental crown, also known as a cap, is a tooth-shaped cap that is placed over a tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and improve its appearance.
- The Crown Process: First, your dentist prepares the tooth for the crown by shaping it and removing some of the enamel. An impression of the tooth is then made, and a temporary crown is placed on the prepared tooth. When the permanent crown is ready, it is cemented into place, and the bite and fit are checked to ensure it is comfortable.
Looking for a Utah Dentist?
If you’re in need of any of these treatments, reach out to a professional who can guide you through the process and provide you with personalized care. For those looking for a Utah dentist, Manti Family Dental offers a warm and welcoming environment combined with compassionate care and advanced dental technology.
Take charge of your oral health today and schedule a consultation with Manti Family Dental. Your smile will thank you for it.
