Your dentist may have mentioned the need for advanced dentistry in Mill Creek. Your dentist knows exactly what they mean, but that doesn’t mean you understand it. You need to look into the types of treatments that you may need to have.
In short, advanced dentistry is usually done for advanced tooth decay. There are a few things your dentist can do, from routine fillings to pulling teeth. Here’s everything you need to know.
Your Tooth Decay Has Advanced
You need advanced dentistry in Mill Creek when your tooth decay has advanced. At the start of tooth decay, dentists can offer some treatments to help cover the teeth. It can be a protective layer that helps to prevent the tooth from decaying any further.
Your dentist will also want you to take steps to prevent any form of tooth decay in the first place. Brushing and flossing are the best, but your dentist will suggest steps if you struggle to get into some of the harder-to-reach teeth.
However, tooth decay gets to the point where further actions need to happen.
It Starts With Fillings
The most common form of advanced dentistry in Mill Creek is dental fillings. You may have already had some as a kid or a teen. Or this may be your first one after years of looking after your teeth. Your own dentist will perform fillings.
Using a small drill, the dentist will remove the decay from the cavity, getting rid of everything that could lead to further decay over time. Then the hole is filled with a material to create the original shape. Metal fillings were once common but they deteriorate faster than other, slightly more expensive materials. You’ll want to talk to your dentist about your options.
Root Canals and Crowns
If the tooth decay is severe, your dentist may recommend a root canal. This is highly common and is the process of removing the pulp from the affected tooth. This takes out the nerves and connective tissues, so you no longer have any feeling around this tooth. It is done when the pulp has been infected from the tooth decay.
After this, a dental crown is done. This is a material placed over the shell of the tooth left behind to protect it. Without the crown, the tooth can break and decay further.
Your own dentist will usually do this. However, sometimes, you may need to see a specialist depending on the exact teeth and your dentist’s capabilities.
Tooth Extraction for Severe Advance Dentistry in Mill Creek
Finally, it comes to tooth extraction. This can be due to the tooth breaking or fillings/root canals not being effective. It can also be needed to make room for braces or due to wisdom teeth causing problems.
You can often have dental implants to fill in the gaps, especially if you have a gap with teeth either side. This helps to prevent weakening other teeth in the future. You’ll usually need to see a specialist for this, especially if still in the gumline.
Advanced dentistry in Mill Creek is necessary for many. Don’t be ashamed. Take the steps to look after your teeth to keep your own for as long as possible.
