There are many services that your dental team can do to help you keep your mouth and teeth healthy and looking their best. We tend to think of our teeth as keeping us looking healthy and attractive, but oral health is actually critical to overall health. Oral problems such as gum disease can lead to serious and long-term consequences, even affecting your cardiovascular health.
Doctors and dentists are glad that patients are motivated to keep their teeth and gums looking and feeling healthy because having a daily oral maintenance routine contributes to good health for the rest of your body. Let’s talk about five of the most common dental procedures, and where you can go in the Minneapolis-St. Paul area for outstanding family dentistry:
#1: Professional Dental Cleanings
Your dental hygienist will use special tools to remove plaque and tartar buildup on your teeth. The hygienist will then clean your teeth with a professional cleanser. You may be asked which flavor you prefer.
While the dental hygienist is cleaning your teeth, they will also look for signs of oral inflammation and cavities. They will report anything they find to your dentist for further examination. In-office cleaning is therefore not only a cleaning per se, it involves several steps.
#2: Dental Fillings
If your dentist finds any cavities during your cleaning or in your X-rays, the dentist may want to fill the cavity during the same appointment if possible. The purpose of tooth fillings is to restore the tooth’s protective integrity so that bacteria and other germs cannot penetrate through to your bloodstream and cause further health problems.
#3: Teeth Whitening
Teeth whitening is a quick and painless dental procedure that can make your teeth noticeably whiter after just a single session. The same results cannot be achieved with off-the-shelf whitening products.
Professional teeth whitening involves using a UV (ultraviolet) light to activate the hydrogen peroxide in the whitening solution. The solution then removes any internal stains so that your teeth are whiter and brighter.
#4: Tooth Extractions
If a tooth becomes too decayed, painful, or infected to be saved, it can be extracted. In this dental procedure, the dentist first numbs the area, then carefully pulls out the affected tooth. You may wish to have the tooth replaced with an implant and/or crown, which essentially functions as a prosthetic tooth.
#5: Dental Implants and Crowns
A dental implant is done to replace a missing tooth. Once the implant has fully healed into the jawbone, you may wish to have it topped with a tooth-like crown.
A crown, or cap, can also be installed atop a partial tooth if your dentist deems the tooth healthy enough to remain in place. The crown functions as your original tooth did, and it will feel very comfortable when chewing and speaking.
Crowns and implants address cosmetic imperfections, correct speaking and/or chewing issues, replace missing teeth, and preserve jawbone health.
Trusted Family Dentist in Minneapolis-St. Paul
Here at Hagerman Dental Care, we skillfully perform a wide range of dental procedures for restorative or cosmetic purposes. We use the latest tools for the early detection of problems, so patients have more options for simple solutions.
We can help you achieve the healthy and beautiful smile of your dreams. To make an appointment with Dr. Hagerman, call us today at (651) 646-2392 or fill out our online request form. We look forward to being your dental healthcare partner!