Have you ever sat in the dentist’s chair and wondered what your dentist is up to? Dental procedures can often feel mysterious, especially if you’re not sure what they involve. To make your next visit more comfortable, we’re here to explain some of the most common dental treatments. Let’s dive into what you can expect so you feel informed and at ease during your appointment.
Regular Cleanings
The hygienist will examine your teeth and gums, looking for signs of decay or infection. They will then use specialized tools to remove built-up plaque and tartar above and below your gum line, which involves scraping and vibrating motions. They will also floss between all your teeth. Cleanings prevent more serious issues down the road.
Dental Fillings
Fillings repair teeth when decay reaches the inner layers. The dentist will numb the area with a local anesthetic injection before using a drill to remove all decayed material, helping ensure the procedure is comfortable. They will rinse and dry the hole, then fill it with tooth-coloured composite resin or silver amalgam material. The filling bonds with the natural tooth structure to seal and protect it.
Dental Crowns
When teeth become badly damaged, crowns fully encase them. The dentist files down the top portion of the tooth to make room for the covering. They will take impressions and measurements to fabricate a customized crown perfectly fitted to your tooth. In the meantime, you’ll receive a temporary crown. The permanent crown is later cemented using dental adhesive to cover and strengthen the vulnerable natural tooth completely.
Root Canal
Root canals treat infections deep within the tooth pulp. The dentist drills an access hole through the top of the tooth down into the roots. They clear out infected or dead nerve tissue and blood vessels using specialized tools. The space is thoroughly cleaned, shaped, and sealed with rubber compounds to prevent infection. A temporary filling is placed while you receive a permanent custom crown.
Dental Implants
Dental implants act as artificial tooth roots, providing stable support for crown replacements. The dentist surgically embeds a biocompatible titanium screw into the jawbone. Through a process called osseointegration, the bone fuses to the implant over several months. Once healed, an abutment is connected to the implant. A custom crown is then attached to the abutment for a permanent, seamlessly integrated prosthetic tooth.
Veneers
Veneers offer quick smile makeovers by placing thin shells over the fronts of teeth. The dentist removes a small amount of enamel so the veneers can bond flush with the natural tooth structure. Veneers are highly customized for each patient and fabricated from porcelain or composite resin for a transformative yet natural look. They effectively treat flaws like stains, chips, gaps, or slight misalignment.
Orthodontic Treatments
Orthodontic treatments like braces gradually align teeth over time through applied pressure. Traditional metal braces use brackets and wires to shift the teeth into the proper position. Newer options like clear aligners and ceramic braces are less visible. While orthodontics requires commitment, the results dramatically improve bite, function, and aesthetics.
While no treatment is inherently enjoyable, modern dentistry prioritizes your comfort, health, and satisfaction. Don’t let uncertainty keep you from gaining your best possible smile. Schedule an appointment with us at Westney North Dental Clinic in Ajax. Whether you’re in need of a dentist for kids or an emergency dentist in Ajax, our experienced team is here to help. From routine check-ups to advanced treatments, we are committed to enhancing oral health. Contact us now!
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