Choosing a dentist can feel a little overwhelming sometimes. A good dentist should make you feel comfortable, explain things in plain language, and offer the services you’re actually going to need to keep your teeth healthy for the long run.
That is why it is important to choose a dentist who is the right fit for you. Here are some important services your dentist should be providing.
Fillings for Cavities
Cavity is the major concern in teeth. Cavities start as tiny holes caused by bacteria, and if they’re small enough, a filling usually fixes the whole thing.
The dentist helps to clean out the decay and fill the space with a tooth colored material or the older silver-colored amalgam material. Most people prefer composite because it blends in, but both work. This is one of the most frequently used procedures for a painful or sensitive tooth.
Tooth Crowns
Sometimes a filling is not helpful. If a tooth is really cracked or the decay is deep, your dentist suggests you tooth crowns. They serve as a protective helmet for your teeth. First, the dentist reshapes the damaged tooth. Then, they place a strong cap that is made of porcelain, metal, or a mix.
After that, the tooth basically gets a second life. Crowns also come in right after a root canal, because a tooth that’s gone through all that drilling is going to need the extra support. So if your dentist suggests a crown, it’s usually to save the tooth from future problems or breakage.
Bridges & Dental Implants for Missing Teeth
Missing a tooth, whether from an accident, decay, or extraction, can affect how you chew, speak, and even the appearance of your smile. So your dentist should offer solid replacement options, usually bridges or implants. A bridge works by anchoring a fake tooth between two healthy ones.
On the other hand, dental implants serve as artificial roots. A titanium post is placed into your jawbone, and once the bone grows around it, a crown is added on top.
Routine Checkups & Professional Cleaning
One of the most important reasons to see a dentist is to get a checkup. These visits, usually twice a year, are like your teeth’s regular health report. Your dentist looks around for anything suspicious, like cavities starting, gum disease, weird bumps, and the usual troublemakers. During this time, the dentist will check to see if you have any problems developing. Catching anything early makes a huge difference.
Additionally, cleaning is another common service. Even if you brush like crazy every morning and night, some sticky plaque just doesn’t budge without the proper tools. A hygienist will clean around your gum line and polish your teeth.
Dentures for Multiple Missing Teeth
Dentures are used when someone has several missing teeth or even a full arch missing. There are two types:
- Partial dentures, which replace a few missing teeth
- Full dentures, which replace an entire upper or lower set
Dentures help restore chewing, speech, facial shape, and confidence.