8 Dental Procedures to Improve Your Oral Health

Various dental procedures can improve overall oral health. Regularly visiting the dentist to get these procedures done can be a great way to maintain oral health and prevent dental problems in the future.

Let’s discuss what these procedures are, including cosmetic ones you can opt for. We’ll also go over the types of dentists that can perform these procedures.

8 Dental Procedures to Improve Your Oral Health

The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends visiting the dentist every six months. Dentists perform various procedures to help prevent, cure, or reduce oral health conditions. 

Here are some of the most common dental procedures to improve your oral health:

1. Teeth Cleanings

Dental cleanings (prophylaxis) are a common procedure that removes plaque and tartar buildup from teeth. They often involve polishing teeth with a professional brush and fluoride treatments. 

The procedure also involves checking for early signs of cavities, gum disease, and tooth decay. In some cases, your dentist can address these problems when they see it.

2. Cavity Fillings

If you have cavities, cavity fillings help prevent further damage to your teeth. The procedure involves removing the decayed portion of the tooth and then filling it with a dental material. Your dentist may also use fillings for chipped or broken teeth.

3. Root Canals

You may need a root canal when you have severely damaged or decayed teeth. A root canal involves removing the infected pulp from the tooth’s root canal system.

The entire procedure can take up to three visits to complete. Failing to get a root canal when necessary can lead to severe pain, infection, and eventual tooth loss.

4. Tooth Extractions

Tooth extractions are necessary for teeth that can’t be saved through fillings or root canals. They may also be recommended for people with alignment issues or who have experienced trauma. This procedure involves removing the entire tooth from its socket in the jawbone.

There are two types of tooth extractions: simple and surgical. Simple extractions involve removing visible teeth such as incisors and canines.

Meanwhile, surgical extractions involve removing teeth that aren’t visible or easily accessible. Your dentist will determine the type of extraction based on your condition. 

5. Braces

Braces are the most common treatment for misaligned teeth. They involve brackets and wires that apply gentle pressure to teeth. 

Over time, braces help your teeth slowly move to the correct position. The duration of treatment often depends on the severity of your misalignment, and it can take several months to a few years.

6. Dental Crowns

Dental crowns are custom-fitted caps that cover teeth. This procedure restores and strengthens decayed teeth. 

There are various types of dental crowns, depending on their material. Common materials include porcelain, metal, and ceramic. 

7. Dental Implants

Dental implants help replace missing teeth after tooth loss or extraction. The procedure involves placing an implant, an abutment, and a crown. 

During the procedure, artificial tooth roots are surgically implanted into your jawbone. Dental implants also help prevent further bone loss and reduce stress on your remaining teeth. 

8. Dentures

Dentures are removable prosthetic devices that replace missing teeth and surrounding tissues. You can get full or partial dentures, depending on the number of missing teeth you have. Aside from replacing missing teeth, dentures improve oral functions and support facial structure. 

Cosmetic Procedures to Help Maintain Your Smile

Aside from dental procedures that can improve your oral health, various cosmetic procedures can improve your smile. These include:

• Dental bonding — Fixes minor cosmetic flaws, such as chipped or irregularly shaped teeth. The dentist uses tooth-colored resin to bond the affected tooth.
• Veneers — A cosmetic procedure that improves the appearance of discolored or chipped teeth. Veneers are made of porcelain or composite materials.
• Teeth whitening — A procedure that involves brightening your teeth and removing stains. This can be done in-office or whitening strips.

Who Performs These Procedures?

General dentists can perform the majority of dental procedures including cosmetic ones. However, for some ailments, you might be referred to a specialist.

Dental specialists include:

• Oral surgeons
• Orthodontists (malocclusion specialists)
• Periodontists (gum disease specialists)
• Prosthodontists (teeth replacement specialists)
• Endodontists (root canal specialists)
• Pediatric dentists (children’s dental specialists)