Dental emergencies don’t wait for Monday morning. They hit you out of the blue, on a quiet Sunday afternoon or in the middle of the night. They leave you in agony, clutching your mouth, and frantically Googling emergency dentistry Richmond. You’re in pain – I get it. But what if I told you that your local general dentist does more than just painfully pull teeth? In fact, they perform a variety of procedures that keep your smile brilliant and pain-free. Let’s dive into the top five procedures performed by general dentists. You might be surprised at what you learn.
1. Regular Check-ups and Cleaning
Often overlooked, regular check-ups are the backbone of good oral health. Dentists are like detectives – always looking for clues. They hunt for early signs of issues like cavities, gum disease, or even oral cancer. Plus, nothing beats the feel of freshly cleaned and polished teeth. Remember, prevention is always better (and cheaper) than cure.
2. Tooth Fillings
Had too much candy as a kid? You might have had a cavity or two. General dentists fill cavities to prevent further tooth decay and save your tooth. It’s quick, it’s easy, and it saves you a world of pain. And with modern technology, fillings are now virtually invisible. So, you can still have that perfect white smile.
3. Root Canal Treatment
Those three words can strike fear in the bravest hearts. But, root canals are nothing to fear. When tooth decay spreads to the pulp of your tooth (the part with nerves and blood vessels), a root canal is needed. It’s not the most pleasant experience, but it saves your tooth from being extracted.
4. Tooth Extraction
When all else fails, tooth extraction is the last resort. Be it severe tooth decay or a wisdom tooth causing trouble, sometimes it’s best to just pull it out. It might sound scary, but rest assured general dentists make sure you’re as comfortable as possible during the process.
5. Dental Implants
Lost a tooth to decay or injury? Dental implants are the next best thing to natural teeth. They look, feel, and function just like real teeth. General dentists surgically insert an artificial root into your jawbone, and then attach a fake tooth to it. It’s a bit of a process, but the result is worth it.
So, there you have it. The top five procedures general dentists perform. They’re not just about pulling teeth. They’re about maintaining your oral health and giving you a smile you can be proud of. The next time you’re clutching your mouth in pain, remember, your local general dentist is there to help. Don’t be afraid to pay them a visit.
