Maintaining good oral health goes beyond brushing and flossing. Sometimes, dental visits are necessary to keep your smile shining and your teeth in tip-top shape. Whether you’re new to the world of dental care or have simply been putting off that dreaded appointment, understanding the most common dental procedures can make the whole process less intimidating.
Stehl Family Dental in Lees Summit offers an array of dental procedures tailored to address your unique needs. Our team is all about making dental visits easy, comfortable, and (dare we say?) enjoyable. This guide will walk you through some of the most common dental procedures, what they involve, and when they might be necessary.
1. Routine Cleanings and Exams
What It Is
A professional cleaning and regular dental exam are the foundations of good oral hygiene. Think of them as the maintenance check-up for your teeth. A dental hygienist cleans your teeth by removing plaque and tartar buildup, followed by a polish to leave your smile feeling fresh. Then, your dentist will examine your teeth and gums to check for concerns like cavities, gum issues, or other conditions.
When You Need It
Routine cleanings and exams are typically recommended every six months. Even if you don’t feel any pain or discomfort, these appointments prevent potential problems down the line. And they give you that satisfying “fresh from the dentist” feel!
2. Fillings
What It Is
Fillings are one of the most common dental procedures for cavities. Essentially, the dentist removes the decayed part of the tooth and fills it with a material like amalgam, composite resin, or gold.
When You Need It
If you have a cavity (or if your tooth suffers minor damage), a filling restores the tooth’s function and prevents further decay. Regular check-ups help catch cavities early, making them much easier (and less uncomfortable) to treat.
3. Root Canals
What It Is
Cue the intimidating name! But don’t worry; a root canal isn’t as scary as TV shows would have you believe. This procedure treats infections inside the tooth. The dentist removes the infected tissue (the pulp), cleans out the area, and seals the tooth to protect it from future damage.
When You Need It
If you experience persistent tooth pain, sensitivity to hot or cold, or swelling around the tooth, you might need a root canal. Left untreated, infected pulp can lead to more serious problems, so it’s best to see your dentist ASAP.
4. Crowns
What It Is
A crown, often referred to as a “cap,” is a custom-made restoration that covers the entire tooth. It’s designed to protect and strengthen a tooth that’s been compromised by damage or decay. Crowns are durable and blend seamlessly with your natural teeth.
When You Need It
Crowns are typically recommended when the tooth is too damaged for a filling to fix. For example, if you’ve had a large cavity, a cracked tooth, or a root canal, your dentist may suggest a crown to restore your tooth’s strength and appearance.
5. Veneers
What It Is
Ever wondered how celebrities always seem to have perfect teeth? Veneers are often the answer. These thin, custom-made shells are bonded to the front of your teeth to enhance their appearance. Veneers can correct discoloration, gaps, and minor misalignments while giving your smile a polished look.
When You Need It
Veneers are ideal if you’re looking to improve the aesthetic appearance of your teeth. If whitening isn’t enough or your teeth have small gaps or chips, veneers can transform your smile into something you’ll love to show off.
6. Extractions
What It Is
Sometimes, a tooth needs to go. Extractions involve removing a tooth that’s damaged beyond repair, crowding other teeth, or is causing pain (hello, wisdom teeth!). Dentists perform extractions with care, ensuring you’re numbed and comfortable during the process.
When You Need It
Extractions are necessary if a tooth is too decayed to be saved, poses a risk to the rest of your mouth, or is causing overcrowding. Wisdom teeth removal is one of the most common types of extraction, usually performed to prevent alignment issues or pain.
7. Teeth Whitening
What It Is
Brighten up your smile with a professional teeth whitening treatment. Unlike over-the-counter solutions, professional whitening is faster, more effective, and conducted under the supervision of your dentist to ensure safety and the best results.
When You Need It
If coffee, tea, red wine, or other staining culprits have dulled your pearly whites, teeth whitening is the perfect solution. It’s also great if you’re preparing for a big event (hello, wedding or job interview!) and want to look your best.
Why Choose Stehl Family Dental for Your Dental Procedures?
At Stehl Family Dental in Lees Summit, we’re all about making your dental visits as pleasant and stress-free as possible. From routine cleanings to complex procedures, our team is here to ensure you feel comfortable, informed, and taken care of every step of the way.
If you’re ready to book your next appointment for your next dental procedure—or just want to learn more about our services—contact us today!
