General dentistry encompasses a wide range of dental operations with the primary objective of preserving your natural teeth. Since the general dentist is your first line of defense against potential oral health problems, it is essential to go for a dental appointment at least twice yearly.
The following are common general dentistry services:
When the tooth pulp becomes irritated or infected, root canals are required. There is no need to be concerned if the dentist has suggested a root canal. Each year, millions of root canal operations are performed to repair damaged or diseased teeth. There are several advantages to having a root canal, especially when experiencing tooth or gum discomfort.
The infection might result from trauma, dental decay, a defective crown, or a chipped tooth. The diseased or inflamed pulp is removed from the tooth’s inner layer during a root canal procedure. After that, the dentist will clean and disinfect the area before filling and sealing it with gutta-percha, a dental substance. The treated tooth will be covered with a crown or filling to protect it. On average, the root canal treatment takes around 90 minutes to perform.
Periodontal therapy is another operation that most general dentists are trained to do. Periodontitis, or advanced gum disease, is an infection of the tissues that surround the teeth. This can include the gums, periodontal ligament, and alveolar bone, among other things. Periodontal disease, if left untreated, can lead to tooth loss.
Gingivitis is a minor form of gum disease that can cause irritation, redness, and inflammation of the gingiva. Gingivitis is caused by poor dental hygiene since plaque will build on the teeth if a person does not clean or floss their teeth regularly, leading to a host of additional issues.
Tooth extractions are usually necessary in case of broken, damaged, or rotting teeth, especially when every option to save a tooth is exhausted. Tooth extraction may be the best option if the tooth is too damaged to be treated with a crown, filling, or root canal. The diseased or damaged tooth is extracted from its socket during a tooth extraction.
Composite fillings and resins are a specialty of general dentists. These tooth-colored fillings are highly sturdy and durable. They are frequently utilized for tiny to medium-sized fillings that must endure moderate pressure. The procedure is often done to fix tooth decay and minor tooth damages.
Fillings are a quick operation that can be completed in only one dental appointment. When patients go to the dentist for a filling, they will apply composite layers to the damaged tooth and solidify each layer using a special light. The dentist will mold the composite to look like a natural tooth after this process is completed.
Composite fillings offer many advantages, and the most important is that they appear and operate just like natural teeth. The dentist can produce a near-perfect hue that matches the rest of the teeth, regardless of their color. Composite fillings also have the advantage of bonding to the natural tooth.
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General dentistry procedures are not just to restore oral health but also to prevent dental issues. Be sure to book a regular appointment to keep your oral health in excellent condition.
Request an appointment or call Southern Cal Smiles: Susan Fredericks, D.D.S, M.P.H. at 818-657-8055 for an appointment in our Woodland Hills office.
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