Imagine this. It’s a Sunday morning and you’re enjoying a leisurely brunch. Suddenly, you crunch down on a piece of toast and feel an intense, sharp pain in your tooth. Panic sets in. This is where Bellevue emergency dentistry comes in. A general dentist can be your hero in such scenarios. In fact, these skilled professionals perform a host of procedures to keep your smile bright and healthy. In this blog, we’ll delve into the top five procedures performed by general dentists, so you can understand their integral role in our lives.
1. Routine Check-ups
First and foremost, general dentists perform routine check-ups. A simple trip to the dentist isn’t only about cleaning your teeth. These visits allow the dentist to spot any potential problems early. Early detection can save you from major dental issues down the road.
2. Filling Cavities
Remember that toothache from your Sunday brunch? It could be a cavity. One of the most common procedures performed by general dentists is filling cavities. This usually involves removing the decayed tooth material, cleaning the affected area, and then filling the cleaned-out cavity with a filling material.
3. Root Canals
When tooth decay becomes severe, it may lead to an infection of the tooth’s nerve. This calls for a root canal. Here, the dentist removes the affected nerve and pulp, and cleans and seals the inside of the tooth. It’s not as scary as you might think!
4. Crowns and Bridges
General dentists also play a crucial role in replacing lost teeth. Crowns, a type of dental restoration, are fitted over the part of a tooth that lies at and above the gum line. Bridges, on the other hand, are used to replace one or more missing teeth by joining an artificial tooth permanently to adjacent teeth or dental implants.
5. Dentures
For those who are missing several teeth, dentures can come to the rescue. Comprising a removable frame holding one or more artificial teeth, dentures help restore your smile and allow you to eat and speak more comfortably. Your Bellevue emergency dentist can have these custom-made just for you.
In conclusion, the role of a general dentist extends far beyond basic oral hygiene. These professionals perform a wide range of procedures to ensure our smiles remain bright and healthy. It’s time we appreciate the heroes of our oral health!