The 6 Most Common Dental Procedures Explained

We all know that going to the dentist regularly is important for oral hygiene and as a preventive measure against decay and tooth loss. However, many people seek out dentists to help them improve the look or correct problems that they have with their teeth and smiles. This field of dentistry is known as cosmetic dentistry, and it has helped millions achieve the smiles of their dreams. If you’re considering correcting issues you have with your teeth, here are the 6 most common dental problems and procedures explained.

Bonding

Dental bonding is the process of using composite resin material to fill gaps and chips in the teeth, and to cover stains. The resin is applied and sculpted over problem areas on the tooth. High-intensity lighting or a special chemical is then used to dry the resin. Composite resin is available in many different shades and the process is usually complete in a single visit to the dental office. Dental bonding is pain-free and patients only experience some minor discomfort during the tooth roughening process.

Contouring & Reshaping

Tooth contouring and reshaping is a noninvasive procedure used to correct common problems such as, chips in both the enamel and tooth. This procedure can also be used to repair worn edges and overlaps. Using a high-powered polishing tool, the dentist carefully removes tiny pieces of enamel to re-sculpt and correct the tooth. Your teeth must be strong to handle this procedure, so your dentist should examine your x-rays in order to determine if you’re a candidate for dental contouring and reshaping.

Severe Bad Breath or Halitosis

Halitosis is an extreme bad breath condition commonly caused by the build-up of bacteria and food particles in the mouth. This buildup usually occurs between the teeth and in tongue crevices. The bacteria, combined with the breakdown of food particles, creates Volatile Sulfur Compounds, or VSC. VSC is the most common cause of bad breath and halitosis. Halitosis can also be caused by periodontal disease and tooth decay. If you believe you have halitosis, your dentist will use a Halimeter to measure the VSC levels in your mouth and determine if you do in fact have halitosis. To treat halitosis, dentists often prescribe a dental hygiene routine incorporating special tools, such as tongue irrigators, scrapers and artificial saliva.

Whitening

Tooth whitening is a process or chemical treatment used to remove stains on the teeth commonly caused by coffee, tea, wine and smoking. A bleaching gel of hydrogen or carbamide peroxide is used to produce enamel-penetrating oxygen molecules. These molecules are strong, yet are able to gently remove deep stains within the enamel and dentin of the teeth.

Bridges & Crowns

A crown is an artificial replacement or prosthesis for the tooth. A bridge is an artificial tooth that is held in place by crowns that have been bonded to adjoining teeth. Crowns and bridges are often used to repair teeth that have been damaged from accidents or sever tooth decay.

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