What are Dental Treatments? How Are They Done?

Dental health is an integral part of our overall health. In addition to having a healthy smile, dental and oral health can affect many systems in our body, from digestion to immunity. Dental treatments vary according to individual needs and aim to create a healthy oral structure while maintaining aesthetic appearance. Here are some common dental treatments and how they are performed:

Dental Fillings

What is it?

A dental filling is a treatment method used to repair the surface of a tooth that is decayed or damaged.

How is it done?

The dentist first cleans and disinfects the decayed area. Then, a special filling material is used to reconstruct the lost part of the tooth. Nowadays, composite (white) fillings are preferred, but amalgam (silver-colored) fillings can also be used.

Root Canal Treatment

What is it?

A treatment applied when the pulp (nerve tissue) of the tooth becomes infected or damaged. It is particularly preferred when it causes pain.

How is it done?

During the treatment, the nerve tissue of the tooth is removed, the root canals are cleaned, and they are filled with special material. It is usually completed in one or two sessions, and the tooth is protected by filling or covering with a crown.

Teeth Whitening

What is it?

An aesthetic procedure done to eliminate color changes that occur over time in the teeth.

How is it done?

Teeth whitening can be done with methods that can be applied either in the clinic or at home. The whitening procedure done in the clinic usually provides faster results and is performed using a special gel applied to the tooth surface and activated with laser light.

Tooth Extraction

What is it?

A tooth extraction is done in cases of decay, infection, or when a tooth affects the other teeth.

How is it done?

Local anesthesia is applied during the tooth extraction. The dentist carefully removes the tooth without damaging the surrounding soft tissue. Surgical intervention may be required for impacted teeth.

Orthodontic Treatments

What is it?

Applied to individuals who have problems with the alignment of their teeth or jaw structure. It is done to correct crooked teeth and ensure proper jaw alignment.

How is it done?

Orthodontic treatment is usually performed using braces or clear aligners. The duration of the treatment varies depending on the individual’s age and dental structure.

Implant Treatment

What is it?

An artificial tooth root that is placed into the jawbone to replace missing teeth.

How is it done?

A titanium screw is first placed into the jawbone. This screw functions similarly to a natural tooth root. After a few months of waiting for the bone to fuse with the implant, a prosthetic tooth is placed on top.

Gum Treatments

What is it?

Treatments applied for inflammation and recession of the gums. They are preferred in conditions like periodontitis and gingivitis.

How is it done?

Gum treatments typically involve professional cleaning. In more advanced cases, procedures like gum surgery, root surface smoothing, and grafting may be required.

Dental treatments are essential for maintaining oral health and improving quality of life. Regular dental check-ups help detect potential problems early and offer simpler and more effective solutions. You can consult your dentist to take necessary precautions for your oral health and learn the most appropriate treatment method.