5 Common Dental Procedures Explained A Step-by-Step Guide to Your Next Dental Visit.

Visiting the dentist can be a daunting experience for many people. Whether it's a routine check-up or a more complex procedure,

 understanding what happens during your dental visit can help ease any anxiety you may have. In this article, we will be taking a closer look at five common dental procedures and explaining them step-by-step. 

By the end of this article, you will have a better understanding of what to expect 

during your next dental visit. From teeth delta dental cleaning and fillings to root canals and crowns, we'll cover everything you need to know to make your next 

dental visit a stress-free and pleasant experience. So sit back, relax, and let us guide you through the intricacies of dental procedures.

1. Teeth Cleaning

Teeth cleaning is a common dental procedure that is recommended every six months. It is a simple and painless process that involves the removal of plaque and tartar buildup from your teeth. The procedure is usually performed by a dental hygienist, who will use special tools to clean your teeth. 

The process starts with a physical examination of your mouth to assess your overall oral health. 

The hygienist will then use a small mirror to check for any signs of cavities or gum disease. Next, they will use a scaler to remove any plaque and tartar buildup from your teeth. This process may cause some mild discomfort, but it should not be painful. 

Once the plaque and tartar are removed, the hygienist will use a high-powered 

brush to clean your teeth. This is done using a special toothpaste that is gritty and helps remove any remaining plaque and stains from your teeth. Finally, the hygienist will floss your teeth to remove any buildup between your teeth and provide you with a fresh, clean feeling in your mouth. 

Overall, teeth cleaning is a quick and easy procedure that can help keep your teeth healthy and prevent more serious dental problems.

2. Fillings

Fillings are a common dental procedure that is used to restore a tooth that has been damaged by decay. The process of getting a filling is relatively straightforward and can usually be completed in a single visit to the dentist. 

First, the dentist will numb the area around the tooth with a local anesthetic. They will then use a dental drill to remove the decayed area of the tooth.

 Once the decay has been removed, the dentist will clean the cavity and prepare 

it for the filling material. The filling material is usually a composite resin that is matched to the color of the tooth. The dentist will carefully place the filling material into the cavity and shape it to fit the tooth's contours.

Once the filling is in place, the dentist will use a special light to harden the material. The final step is to polish the filling to ensure that it blends in with the rest of the tooth. With proper care, a filling can last for many years and help to protect the tooth from further decay.

3. Root Canals

Root canals are a common dental procedure that is used to treat a damaged or infected tooth. The procedure involves removing the infected dental pulp from the tooth and sealing it to prevent further infection. The following is a step-by-step guide to a root canal procedure. 

1. Numbing the Tooth: 

The first step in a root canal procedure is to numb the tooth and surrounding area with a local anesthetic. This is done to ensure that the patient does not feel any pain during the procedure. 

2. Creating an Access Hole: 

Once the tooth is numb, the dentist will create a small access hole in the top of the tooth to reach the pulp chamber. 

3. Removing the Infected Pulp:

 Next, the infected pulp is removed using small, specialized instruments. This can take some time depending on the severity of the infection. 

4. Cleaning and Shaping the Root Canals:

 Once the pulp is removed, the dentist will clean and shape the root canals to prepare them for filling. 

5. Filling the Canals: 

After cleaning and shaping the canals, the dentist will fill them with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha. This material helps to seal the canals and prevent further infection. 

6. Restoring the Tooth: 

Finally, the access hole in the tooth is filled with a temporary filling or a permanent crown, depending on the severity of the damage to the tooth. 

While root canals may have a reputation for being painful, they are actually quite routine and can be completed in one or two visits to the dentist. If you are experiencing tooth pain or discomfort, it is important to see a dentist right away to determine if a root canal or other dental procedure is necessary.

4. Crowns

Crowns are often used to restore teeth that have been severely damaged or decayed. Crowns are essentially caps that are placed over damaged teeth to protect them from further damage. The crown is usually made up of porcelain or ceramic and is custom-fitted to the damaged tooth. 

During the first step of the crown procedure, your dentist will remove any decay or damage from the tooth. Then, they will take an impression of the tooth to create a mold for the crown. The mold will be sent to a dental lab where the crown will be created. In the meantime, your dentist may place a temporary crown over the damaged tooth to protect it. 

Once the permanent crown is ready, you will return to your dentist for placement. 

Your dentist will remove the temporary crown and place the permanent crown over the damaged tooth. They will then check the fit and make any necessary adjustments to ensure comfort and a proper bite. The crown will be bonded to the tooth with dental cement, and any excess cement will be removed. It is important to take proper care of your crown to ensure its longevity. 

This includes proper brushing and flossing, as well as regular dental check-ups and cleanings. Crowns can last anywhere from 5 to 15 years depending on the quality of care. If you experience any discomfort or issues with your crown, it is important to contact your dentist right away.