• 07 JUN 18
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    Some of the Most Common Dental Procedures

    dental procedures

    Ever wonder what the most common dental procedures are these days? Do you ever feel confused or worried about dental procedures? Learning about common procedures such as fillings, root canals or extractions can help prevent needless concern should you need one of these procedures.  Erase your fears, put your anxiety away, and educate yourself so that you won’t be afraid of getting needed dental treatment.

    Root Canals

    When a tooth is badly damaged or decayed, the last resort to save it is often an endodontic procedure.  The most commonly known treatment falling into this category is the classic root canal. It is a treatment that is used to save a tooth from extraction, an absolute last-resort option at our practice.  During your procedure, Dr. Evanson will carefully remove any damaged or infected pulp, clean out the interior of the tooth, then seal it so the rest of the pulp stays healthy. Waiting too long for a root canal could cause the tooth to be lost permanently. Numbing agents and anesthesia are used throughout the procedure to ensure it is painless. If you are already in pain, completing the root canal will only help you feel better faster.

    Anesthesia

    Anesthesia is used before some procedures to help dull pain or sedate a nervous patient. Usually, local anesthesia is all a patient needs during a procedure to dull pain in the part of the mouth the dentist is working on. This type of anesthesia does not cause the patient to sleep and lasts about 2-3 hours following the procedure. Local anesthesia is most often used during a filling or root canal.

    Fillings

    Dental fillings are extremely common in a dental office. They are used to restore a damaged tooth from decay so that bacteria can be stopped in its tracks and the tooth can function normally.

    The type of filling material that Dr. Evanson chooses for your filling will be determined by the size of the restoration, if you have any allergies she needs to consider, and where the filling will rest in your mouth.  Some fillings are also more expensive than others so Dr. Evanson will discuss with you your options during your consultation.

    Sealants

    Dental sealants act as a barrier to prevent cavities.  According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD), “sealant placement in children and adolescents has shown a reduction of cavities’ incidence [by] 86 percent after one year and 58 percent after four years.”

    A dental sealant is a thin plastic coating (usually clear or white in color) that is applied to the chewing surface of your tooth, which shields the enamel from further decay by “sealing out” food, plaque, and bacteria.  Dental sealants are meant to prevent the need for dental fillings, and require no drilling to the enamel or dentin in order to be applied. The great thing about dental sealants is that they are invisible–no one will even notice they are there, but they can make a big difference in whether or not your tooth gets a cavity or not.  

    X-rays

    Digital x-rays of your teeth are an essential record for Dr. Evanson’s patients. X-rays give her an inside perspective to the health of your teeth, gums and bones. X-rays help us practice preventive dentistry. We use x-rays not only to deliver precise treatment, but also to prevent problems linked to tooth decay, gum disease, malocclusion, or bone development problems.   

    Tooth Removal

    Why do teeth need to be extracted at times? The two most common reasons are: 1) the physical integrity of the tooth has been compromised; and 2) the patient can’t afford more extensive treatment to a diseased tooth so they opt to have it pulled.

    If you are practicing good oral hygiene and having your regular check-ups and cleanings, chances are low that you are going to get into a situation where you will need to have a tooth pulled. But, accidents and trauma come unexpectedly and can cause unexpected results.

    Schedule a Dental Procedure Today

    In need of a dental procedure? You know who to call. Dr. Evanson and her experienced, dedicated team will help you receive the tender care you need. Call (720) 409-0008 to set up an appointment for a dental exam and to get your health questions answered!

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