Depending on the person’s prior experiences and knowledge of dental procedures, going to the dentist can cause a range of feelings, from anxiety to relief. However, having a clear understanding of common dental procedures can alleviate anxiety and empower patients to take charge of their oral health. In this article, we will explore several common dental procedures from a patient’s perspective, shedding light on what to expect during each one.

Routine Dental Check-Up

Preventive dental treatment begins with a routine dental examination. Usually planned every six months, this session is a common event for numerous individuals. A dental check-up involves the dentist looking for signs of gum disease and other problems with the teeth. X-rays can be used to find hidden concerns like jawbone problems or cavities between teeth. The dental hygienist will also provide a thorough cleaning to remove plaque and tartar accumulation, which helps shield teeth from cavities and gum disease. To learn more about routine dental check-ups, visit santamonicaoms.com.

Fillings

To restore the tooth’s structure and function, the dentist will advise a filling if a cavity is found during a checkup. Local anesthetic is usually administered to numb the area surrounding the damaged tooth before the procedure can start. Using a dental drill or laser, the dentist will clean the decaying section of the tooth once it has become numb. After that, the cavity is filled with amalgam or composite resin that matches the tooth’s color, preserving the tooth’s structure and halting future deterioration.

Root Canal Therapy

When the pulp—the soft tissue inside the tooth—becomes infected or inflamed as a result of severe decay or trauma, root canal therapy is required. Prolonged toothache, sensitivity to cold or hot temperatures, and gum swelling are signs of injured pulp. The dentist will inject local anesthetic to numb the tooth and surrounding tissue before making an opening to access the affected pulp during a root canal treatment. After removing the contaminated tissue, the root canal is prepared, filled, and cleaned using a biocompatible substance. To restore strength and function, the tooth is sealed with a crown or filling.

Tooth Extraction

If a tooth is extremely decaying, irreparably damaged, or crowding the mouth, it may occasionally need to be pulled. In addition, tooth extraction could be required for orthodontic therapy or for wisdom teeth that are impacted. To guarantee the patient’s comfort, the dentist will give local anesthesia before tooth extraction. The dentist will carefully extract the tooth from its socket using specialist tools. After that, gauze is applied to stop the bleeding and the extraction site may be sewn shut. Post-operative instructions for controlling discomfort and accelerating healing will be given to patients.

Dental Implants

A common and reliable method of restoring lost teeth is with dental implants. Dental implants are surgically placed at the jawbone, where they fuse with the bone structure to create a secure foundation for artificial teeth, in contrast to traditional dentures or bridges, which rest on the gums or depend on neighboring teeth for support. The implant process typically involves multiple stages, including implant placement, healing and osseointegration (bone fusion), and attachment of the prosthetic tooth or crown. While dental implant surgery requires careful planning and coordination between the patient and the dental team, many patients find that the long-term benefits outweigh the initial investment of time and resources.

Conclusion

Gaining insight into common dental procedures from the viewpoint of the patient can help people make more educated decisions about their oral health and demystify the dental experience. Knowing what to anticipate can help reduce anxiety and promote a positive connection with dental care, regardless of the procedure—a normal check-up, filling, root canal therapy, tooth extraction, or dental implant surgery. Patients can preserve healthy smiles for years to come by making preventive measures a priority and getting treatment as soon as necessary.