What You Should Know About General Dentistry

General dentistry includes everything from Dental Implants Columbia MO to fillings. It also includes things like cleanings, bridges, and even root canals. However, before you decide whether you want to go to the dentist or not, there are a few things to keep in mind.

Exams

Dental exams are a key component of maintaining good oral health. They allow your dentist to screen you for oral cancer and other conditions that may require treatment. You’ll also receive preventive care tips and learn how to keep your teeth healthy.

Your dentist will likely recommend fluoride treatments for remineralizing enamel. He or she will also check for signs of tooth decay and gum disease. A comprehensive examination is the most thorough and will include a full mouth series of x-rays.

The dentist will review your medical history, examine your teeth and gums, and may even perform a neck area check. In addition, you’ll likely be asked to perform some simple oral tasks, such as chewing and speaking.

Cleanings

The American Dental Association recommends that patients have a professional teeth cleaning twice a year. Brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing daily are also recommended.

Dental cleanings are important because they can help remove plaque and tartar buildup. These slick substances can lead to serious problems with your gums.

There are different types of dental cleanings, and they are designed to suit the needs of the individual. Some patients with a history of periodontitis will require more frequent routine dental cleanings than others. Likewise, patients with good oral hygiene will not need to undergo the same kinds of treatments.

X-rays

Dental x-rays are an important part of your overall oral health. They can reveal problems that you may not have noticed before. Depending on your dental history, you may need x-rays every few months or annually. X-rays can also help detect signs of periodontal disease and tooth decay.

There are several different types of X-rays that dentists use. Panoramic X-rays, for instance, are commonly used by orthodontists as a part of braces preparation. This type of X-ray allows dentists to see how your teeth fit together, as well as detect any changes in bone or thickness.

Fillings

When you have a cavity, a dental filling can save your tooth. Your dentist will fill it to seal and stop the decay from spreading. The filling will then restore the strength and look of your tooth.

Dental fillings can also help you when you have teeth that are damaged from misuse or abuse. Fillings can also be used to fix worn-down teeth from bruxism (tooth grinding).

There are several kinds of fillings that can be used. Some are metals like silver and gold, while others are composites. Choosing the right type of filling is important.

Root canals

Root canals are the procedure of cleaning the inside of a tooth to remove bacteria and decaying tissue. This can be done by a general dentist or an endodontist.

The procedure is fairly painless. A local anesthetic is injected into the gums to numb the area. Once the area is numb, the dentist will be able to clean the inside of the tooth.

In some cases, the dentist will place a temporary filling in the tooth to prevent food from getting stuck in the hole. At the next appointment, the tooth will be filled with a permanent material that will seal off the hole.

Bridges

A dental bridge is a fixed prosthesis that replaces a missing tooth. It is typically made from porcelain or metal alloys and is supported by healthy teeth on either side of the gap.

The most obvious benefit of a bridge is the ability to chew normally. However, a bridge can also improve the appearance of a mouth and reshape the face.

Dental bridges are designed to last for many years, even decades, if you take good care of them. This includes cleaning them with floss and brushing them regularly. If you are considering a bridge, be sure to do some research and weigh the pros and cons before making a decision.

Dentures

Dentures are a popular choice when replacing missing teeth. These artificial Dental Implants Columbia MO are custom crafted to fit the patient’s mouth and are made to look natural.

The process for getting dentures starts with an examination by a dentist. Your dentist will gather information about your dental health, such as your bite patterns, gum tissue, and other underlying issues. This information will be used to create a model of your mouth that is used as a basis for making the dentures.

After the model is created, the dentures are fabricated at a dental lab. The process of creating a denture can take a few weeks.