Common Dental Procedures
Dentists perform a great many procedures, but some of the most common are cleaning, filling cavities and whitening. The dentist may help prevent cavities by giving you a fluoride treatment, and if you are having a problem may take X-Rays and photos to help diagnose the issue. If your tooth is weak, a crown may be suggested, and missing teeth may be replaced by an implant, bridge or denture.
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- Q How can I avoid pain during teeth cleaning at the dentist?
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Most dental sensitivity is the result of gum disease, tooth decay, or both. If your teeth are sensitive, it's a good idea to see your dentist for a cleaning. If you find your teeth are sensitive only during cleaning, talk with your dentist, as it may be... Full Answer
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- Q What happens during a regular dental appointment?
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Each individual mouth is unique, so the exact treatment at each dental visit can vary based upon your oral health and your needs. A dentist will begin by visually examining your mouth, gums, tongue and teeth. Dental cleanings will help clean the teeth... Full Answer
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- Q How can a dentist fix a "gummy" smile?
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When you smile, do you feel like everyone is staring at your gums? People whose gums cover too much of their upper teeth are said to have a "gummy smile." If your gummy smile bothers you, a dentist or periodontist can remove some of the extra gum to... Full Answer
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- Q What is tooth shaping?
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If your front teeth are uneven along the edges, or your canine teeth are too "pointy," your dentist may recommend enamel shaping to improve their natural appearance. Enamel shaping involves contouring tooth enamel to create a smooth line. The... Full Answer
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- Q What does preventive dentistry mean?
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Dental disease is almost entirely preventable and oral health is just as important as the health of the rest of your body. Untreated dental disease can lead to serious health problems such as infection, damage to bone or nerve, and tooth loss. Infection... Full Answer
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- Q How effective are dental sealants in preventing tooth decay?
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As long as dental sealants remain intact, they can protect the chewing surfaces from decay in children and adults. Sealants are durable and can stand up to daily chewing forces for months or even years. Of course, everyone is different, and the... Full Answer
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- Q When are metals used in tooth restorations?
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For large tooth restorations such as crowns, metals are often used. They are very strong and resist cracking and wear. They can also be highly resistant to corrosion and tarnishing. Since metal alloys have a dark color, they do not look like... Full Answer
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- Q How do dental sealants help prevent tooth decay?
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To keep decay from starting in the grooves on the back of your teeth, your dentist may recommend dental sealants. A dental sealant is a plastic material that is applied to a chewing surface of a back tooth. The sealant material flows into the... Full Answer
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- Q What is recontouring of the teeth?
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Recontour means to change the shape or look of something. In dentistry this can mean changing the contour of a crown or set of dentures. It can improve your smile and it can also make your teeth more comfortable in your mouth. Full Answer
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- Q What is a porcelain-fused-to-metal dental restoration?
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A type of dental restoration is porcelain-fused-to-metal, which provides strength to a crown or bridge. These restorations are very strong and durable.The combination of porcelain bonded to a supporting structure of metal creates a stronger restoration... Full Answer
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