Common Family Dental Procedures: A Guide to Maintaining Good Oral Health

A healthy, happy smile is essential for the whole family, and regular dental care is crucial for maintaining good oral health. At a family dental practice, patients of all ages can receive various treatments and procedures designed to promote healthy teeth and gums. 

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the most common family dental procedures, exploring what they entail, why they’re necessary, and how they can help keep your family’s smiles shining bright for years.

Exploring Common Family Dental Procedures 

Here is a guide for common family dental procedures:

Routine Cleanings and Exams

Routine cleanings and exams are the foundation of good oral health. During a routine cleaning, a dental hygienist will remove plaque and tartar from your teeth, both above and below the gum line. This helps prevent the buildup of bacteria that can lead to tooth decay and gum disease.

A routine exam typically involves a visual inspection of your teeth and gums, as well as a review of your medical and dental history. Your dentist may also take X-rays to check for any signs of tooth decay or other oral health issues.

Fillings

Fillings are a common dental procedure used to repair teeth that have been damaged by tooth decay or trauma. During a filling procedure, your dentist will remove the decayed portion of the tooth and fill the area with a tooth-colored material, such as composite resin.

There are several types of fillings available, including:

• Amalgam fillings: Made from a mixture of mercury, silver, and other metals, amalgam fillings are durable and long-lasting.
• Composite fillings: Made from a mixture of plastic and glass, composite fillings are tooth-colored and can be used to repair both front and back teeth.
• Gold fillings: Made from gold alloy, gold fillings are durable and can be used to repair molars and other back teeth.

Crowns

Crowns are a type of dental restoration used to repair teeth that have been severely damaged by tooth decay or trauma. During a crown procedure, your dentist will prepare the tooth by removing any decayed or damaged areas. An impression of the tooth is then taken and used to create a custom-made crown.

Extractions

Extractions are a common dental procedure used to remove teeth that are severely damaged or decayed. During an extraction procedure, your dentist will administer a local anesthetic to numb the area around the tooth. The tooth is then gently rocked back and forth until it is loose enough to be removed.

Sealants

Sealants are a type of dental treatment used to prevent tooth decay. During a sealant procedure, a clear or tooth-colored material is applied to the surface of the tooth, where it hardens to form a protective barrier.

Sealants are typically used on molars and other back teeth, where the risk of tooth decay is highest. They can be applied to both children and adults and can be used in conjunction with other dental treatments, such as fillings and crowns.

Root Canals

Root canals are a type of dental procedure used to repair teeth that have been damaged by infection or decay. During a root canal procedure, your dentist will administer a local anesthetic to numb the area around the tooth. The infected or damaged pulp is then removed, and the inside of the tooth is cleaned and disinfected.

A root canal can help to:

• Relieve pain: If you’re experiencing tooth pain or sensitivity, a root canal can help to relieve your symptoms.
• Save the tooth: By removing the infected or damaged pulp, a root canal can help to save the tooth and prevent the need for extraction.
• Prevent further damage: A root canal can help to prevent further damage to the tooth and surrounding tissue.

Whether you need a routine cleaning and exam, a filling, or a more complex procedure like a root canal, your dentist is here to help.