Fillings – are a common type of treatment for
repairing and restoring teeth. After the decay is removed, a dentist fills the
hole with a tooth-colored resin to prevent further decay or infection. Gold or
silver fillings are rarely used nowadays, thus reducing concerns about mercury.
Inlay - similar to a filling, an inlay is
usually molded by a dental lab to fit precisely into the space left by a
cavity. It is then cemented in place
Onlay - similar to an inlay, an onlay is also
made by a dental lab. It covers a tooth and helps to build up its shape after
it is cemented in place.
Crown - a cap that covers the top part of a
tooth that has been severely damaged or weakened by decay. It can be made out
of porcelain or some other material which blends in with the rest of your
teeth. After the crown is fabricated, it is cemented or bonded on top of an
existing tooth.
Dentures – are removable sets of artificial teeth
that replace some, or all of teeth in a jaw. When only some teeth are lost, a
partial denture is made which mounts on a plastic base and attaches to adjacent
teeth. If all the top or bottom teeth have been lost, a complete denture is
made. The artificial teeth are mounted on a plastic base and stay in place by
suction or through the use of a denture adhesive. Dentures can be removed.
Bridge – similar to dentures, bridges are
artificial teeth that “bridge” a gap between teeth. However, they cannot be
removed because the bridge is anchored to healthy teeth on either side of the
gap.
Implant – a surgical procedure for replacing a
missing tooth. A titanium rod or post is surgically inserted into the jaw and
afterwards, an artificial tooth is attached to the implant.
Root Canal (Endodontics) – a procedure in which the
nerve of a severely decayed or damaged tooth is removed, and the remaining
space is filled with cement. Root canal treatment is sometimes the only way to
save a severely damaged tooth.
Gum Surgery (Periodontics) – cosmetic surgery of the
gums to correct receding and visible gum lines in order to curtail gum disease,
and to improve one’s smile.
Tooth Extraction - permanent removal of a tooth from its
socket because it is impacted, extremely decayed, or is in danger of falling
out on its own due to gum disease.
Nitrous Oxide Gas – N20 is breathed in through a mask
and helps the patient relax during a dental procedure. Nitrous oxide is often
used in Sedation dentistry. It is also commonly referred to as “laughing gas”.
Veneers – are a popular cosmetic procedure for closing
gaps between teeth, or for covering badly stained or misshapen teeth. Very thin
layers of porcelain or composite resin are permanently bonded to a tooth’s
surface. Veneers can significantly improve your smile.
Braces (Orthodontics) – are usually worn for six months
to three years to move teeth into their proper position. They can be made of
metal or synthetic brackets and wires that attach to teeth and are adjusted
regularly. Some braces are clear and are therefore barely noticeable.
Retainers – are used to help keep teeth in place so that
they do not move. Retainers are often used after braces are removed, but they
can also be used without having to first undergo orthodontic treatment.
Teeth Grinding (Bruxism) – is a condition that affects
many people, particularly at night when they sleep. A custom-made nightguard
can prevent damage to the teeth, as well as irritation and inflammation of the
jaw. Untreated, teeth grinding can cause Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) syndrome.
Prophylaxis – a teeth cleaning procedure in which
plaque, stains, and tartar are removed from the surface of the teeth.
Prophylaxis sometimes involves scaling, or the scraping off of plaque and
tartar. This helps prevent tooth decay and gum disease.
Fluoride treatment – a chemical treatment that is
applied to teeth to help strengthen their surface and prevent cavities.
Teeth Whitening (Bleaching) – any treatment used by your
dentist to brighten or whiten the color of your teeth. One popular approach is
for the dentist to take an impression of your teeth so that a custom fit tray
can be made. The tray, which is similar to a mouth guard, is then filled with a
bleaching agent and worn for several hours a day. Another approach is for the
dentist use a laser light and bleaching agent while you are in his office.
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