5 Commonly Performed Dental Procedures

Posted by Rob A on September 28th, 2019

For most people, dental problems occur more frequently than you might think and will require treatment to fix the issue. Learn the different kinds of procedures a person that practices general dentistry commonly performs, which is a topic covered through restorative dental CME (continuing medical education).

Bleaching

Your teeth naturally have a yellow tinge. Brushing and flossing can definitely clean them but won't completely turn them white. Smoking and some foods also cause further stains.

People who'd like to have a set of pearly whites should visit their dentists and ask about bleaching. This procedure removes all the stains and discoloration. It’s not right for everyone, which is why you’ll want to discuss it with them first.

Filling

Plaque can accumulate on your teeth if you don't clean them regularly. It releases acids that can cause cavities. If left untreated, the affected parts will decay.

There are plenty of ways to treat this, but everything will depend on the severity of the damage. In most cases, dentists will use a small drill to remove the cavities. Left exposed, the tooth's insides will be covered as part of the treatment process. Normally, this is done with a white filling, but some use silver or dental amalgams.

Extraction

Although your teeth are meant to be permanent, a tooth can be found in a state that's deemed beyond repair. At that point, having it extracted is the only remedy left. Trauma is also another reason to have one pulled, which is a standard sports-related injury. Wisdom teeth win the prize for being the most popular in the dental extraction category in dentist CME. They rarely come through without incident.

Bridges

If you recently had a tooth pulled, your dentist probably recommended a dental bridge to fill the gap. Unlike dentures, these are permanently implanted and can’t be removed. Although most people choose a bridge made of porcelain, others prefer a gold-plated one for its aesthetic appeal.

Orthodontic Treatment

Not all individuals are born with perfect teeth. People who don’t have a properly aligned set will have to undergo orthodontic treatment. Braces or retainers will be used to straighten them or fix an over or underbite.

Remember, your pearly whites need help to stay healthy, and they can only do that with proper oral hygiene and care which you can learn more about with restorative dental CME. Don't wait for a toothache to seek assistance. When it comes to routine maintenance, or if you have tooth problems, visit a professional who can perform general dentistry.