Dentists who perform general dentistry help their patients maintain healthy teeth and gums. Below you’ll learn about the most common procedures performed by a dentist who specializes in General Dentistry Services in Lacey WA. By being knowledgeable about these procedures, individuals will know what to expect when they have a dental appointment.
Routine Exam
Most dentists recommend that their patients have a routine examination every 6 months. In addition to the exam, patients will have their teeth cleaned and polished by a dental hygienist. The dentist may also order x-rays to be taken of the teeth during the visit. After the teeth are cleaned and polished, the dentist examines the teeth and looks for cavities, signs of gum disease and other issues in the mouth.
Tooth Fillings
When a dentist finds a cavity in a patient’s mouth, the patient will schedule an appointment with the dentist to get the cavity filled. The dentist uses hand instruments and begins the procedure by cleaning out the decay that’s in the tooth. The next step is to fill the opening of the tooth with a filling material. There are various types of filling materials that are commonly used including silver amalgam, composite resin, porcelain and gold.
Root Canals
When a tooth has damage to the pulp and nerve, it often becomes infected and painful. To relieve the pain and save the tooth, a dentist who performs General Dentistry Services in Lacey WA will perform a root canal procedure. During the procedure, the dentist drills an opening down inside the tooth and removes the infected pulp. After cleaning out the inside of the tooth, the dentist fills the opening with a special dental substance. The next step is to seal the opening where the tooth was drilled by placing a filling in the tooth. If the tooth is severely damaged, the dentist may recommend placing a crown on the tooth at a later date.
South Sound Family Dental & Dentures is an experienced dentist who offers general dentistry services and cosmetic dental procedures. Visit the website and click here to get additional info about the services this dental clinic offers and to take advantage of their special offers.
