Dental health is an important part of overall health and well-being. There are many common dental treatments that aim to maintain or restore oral health. Understanding these procedures can help you make informed decisions about your dental care. This article will explain some of the most common dental treatments performed in the United States.
1. Root Canal Treatment
Root canal treatment performed by a dentist is a procedure that treats infections and inflammation in the soft pulp tissue inside the tooth. The pulp contains connective tissue, blood vessels, and nerves. It extends from the crown of the tooth to the tip of the roots, where it connects to the tissues surrounding the root.
If the pulp becomes infected due to deep cracks, decay, or chips in the tooth, trauma, or repeated dental procedures, you may need a root canal. Without treatment, the infection can spread to the bone around the tooth and cause a painful abscess. Root canal treatment eliminates the infected pulp cleans and shapes the center of the tooth before filling and sealing it.
Before treatment begins, a dentist applies a local anesthetic to numb the area. The dentist then makes an opening through the crown of the tooth to access the pulp chamber and root canals. Any infected or dead pulp is removed. The root canals are cleaned, disinfected, and shaped in preparation for filling. Once thoroughly cleaned, the empty root canal system is sealed with an inert material called gutta-percha. A permanent or temporary filling is positioned to seal the opening in the crown. With proper care, a tooth that has had root canal treatment performed can last a lifetime.
2. Dental Fillings
Fillings, also called restorations, are used to repair teeth that are affected by mild to moderate decay, cracks, chips, or wear. The damaged or decayed section of the tooth is removed and replaced with a durable filling material. Fillings help restore the tooth’s shape, function, and integrity.
The most common filling material used in the US is a composite resin blend. Composite fillings bond to the natural tooth structure and match the color of your teeth. Other common filling options include amalgam, gold, porcelain, and glass ionomer cement. The type of filling you receive depends on the location and extent of repair needed, your dental insurance coverage, and your personal preferences.
3. Dental Crowns
Dental crowns are tooth-shaped casings positioned over broken teeth to repair their shape, size, strength, and appearance. Crowns can be made of metal, ceramic, resin materials, or porcelain fused to metal. The crown protects the weakened tooth from fractures or further decay.
Crowns are necessary when there is extensive decay, a cracked or broken tooth, or a previously treated tooth that needs additional support and strength. Preparation involves filing down the damaged tooth to make room for the crown. Then, impressions are made to create the custom crown which will be cemented in place over the prepared tooth.
From routine fillings to major procedures like root canals and crowns, there are many dental treatments available to restore your oral health and beautiful smile. Knowing what’s involved in common procedures can help you feel more comfortable and informed when visiting your dentist.