A dentist performs a wide variety of procedures in their practice. Here are some of the most common procedures they are likely to perform.
A visit to the dentist may be necessary for a variety of reasons,
from something as simple as a routine professional cleaning to a complex oral surgery. Though the tasks that these professionals perform are numerous, here are some of the most common procedures to expect: Dental X-Ray: An x-ray of the mouth is taken to evaluate oral health. It shows what is occurring beneath the exterior of the teeth and gums, including hidden abnormalities. It can show decay, infections, signs of gum disease, and changes in bone and ligaments that hold the tooth in place. How often x-rays are required depends on a person’s age, current oral condition, and risk for or symptoms of disease.
Routine professional cleaning: Typically performed by a dental hygienist, professional cleaning is also called prophylaxis. It involves removing plaque and tartar from the teeth in order to prevent cavities, gingivitis, and periodontal disease. The tools used in these cleanings are especially useful in removing the tartar, or mineralized plaque, that forms even with regular brushing and flossing. Tartar forms most often in hard-to-reach areas. Hygienists use ultrasonic scalers, which vibrate at a high frequency and break down bacteria, to remove the majority of the plaque. Then they use hand instruments to remove the remaining plaque and tartar before polishing the teeth. Polishing makes the tooth surface smooth and harder for plaque to stick to. A tool called a prophy cup, or small rubber cup, and a polishing compound are used. Professional cleanings are recommended at least once per year.
Cavity filling: A cavity occurs when bacteria in the mouth produce acids that attack your teeth, dissolving tooth enamel and causing a hole. They do not heal themselves over time, so fillings are required to prevent the cavity from enlarging or causing more serious problems. In the past, dentists used gold or silver fillings, but now they come in a wide array of materials, including tooth-colored composite resin. This creates a much more aesthetically pleasing appearance, especially if the filling is in a highly visible part of the mouth. Some other common filling materials are gold, porcelain, and amalgam. Which type of filling is used depends upon the extent of the necessary repair, personal allergies, and where the filling will be placed. First, the decayed part of the tooth is removed and the area is cleaned. Then, the filling material is placed in the cleaned out area. The filling closes off spaces where bacteria can enter and prevents further decay.
Root Canals: Also called endodontic treatment, a root canal is performed when the pulp inside a tooth is diseased or injured. The pulp is the soft core of the tooth. It contains nerves, blood vessels and connective tissue, and it supplies nutrients to the tooth. The pulp cannot repair itself when damaged. When it is diseased, pulp tissue dies, and leaving the dead tissue in the tooth can cause infection. If corrective action is not taken, it can result in necessary removal of the tooth. A root canal is usually a simple procedure, requiring one to three visits and involving minimal discomfort. The dentist removes the pulp, cleans the root canal and pulp chamber, and seals it off for protection. Then he or she places a crown over the tooth to restore and strengthen it.
Dentists perform a great deal of other procedures, including tooth whitening and wisdom tooth removal. The above list merely provides some of the most common items to expect when visiting the dentist.
