Dental Treatments
What is Dental?
Dental refers to anything related to the teeth, gums, and oral cavity. It encompasses the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of conditions affecting the teeth and their supporting structures, as well as the maintenance of oral health. Dental care can include regular check-ups and cleanings, cavity fillings, root canals, extractions, orthodontic treatment, and more. Dentists are healthcare professionals who specialize in providing dental care to patients.
When should you consult dental?
You should consult with a dental professional if you experience any of the following:
- Tooth pain: If you have persistent tooth pain, especially when you eat or drink, you should see a dentist. This could be a sign of a cavity, tooth infection, or other dental problem.
- Gum disease: If you notice that your gums are swollen, bleeding, or receding, you should see a dentist. Gum disease can lead to tooth loss if left untreated.
- Broken or chipped tooth: If you have a broken or chipped tooth, you should see a dentist as soon as possible. This can be a painful and potentially serious issue.
- Loose or missing tooth: If you have a loose tooth or a tooth that has fallen out, you should see a dentist. Prompt treatment can help save the tooth or prevent further damage.
- Jaw pain: If you experience pain or stiffness in your jaw, you should see a dentist. This could be a sign of a temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder.
- Bad breath: If you have persistent bad breath, despite regular brushing and flossing, you should see a dentist. Bad breath can be a sign of an underlying dental problem.
In general, it is recommended to see a dentist for a routine check-up and cleaning every six months to maintain good oral health and catch any potential problems early on.
What are treatments for dental?
There are many different treatments for dental issues, depending on the specific problem. Here are some common dental treatments:
- Dental fillings: Used to treat cavities and decayed teeth, fillings involve removing the damaged portion of the tooth and filling the resulting cavity with a durable material such as composite resin, porcelain, or silver amalgam.
- Root canal therapy: This treatment is used to treat an infected or inflamed tooth pulp. During the procedure, the dentist removes the infected pulp and fills the tooth with a filling material.
- Dental crowns: Crowns are used to protect and restore damaged or weakened teeth. They are made of porcelain, metal, or a combination of the two and cover the entire tooth.
- Tooth extractions: In some cases, a tooth may need to be extracted if it is severely damaged or infected beyond repair. The dentist will numb the area with a local anaesthetic before removing the tooth.
- Teeth whitening: This cosmetic treatment involves using a bleaching agent to whiten discoloured teeth and remove stains.
- Orthodontic treatment: This type of treatment is used to correct misaligned teeth and improve the bite. It can include traditional braces, clear aligners, or other appliances.
- Dental implants: Used to replace missing teeth, dental implants are surgically placed into the jawbone and topped with a crown or bridge to restore function and appearance.
- Periodontal therapy: This treatment is used to treat gum disease and may include deep cleaning, scaling and root planing, and antibiotic therapy.
The specific treatment recommended for you will depend on your individual needs and the severity of your dental issue. It’s important to consult with a dental professional to determine the best course of treatment for you.