Choosing a dentist involves more than finding the closest office to your home. Different providers offer different services, and matching those services to your situation helps you get the care you actually need. Some patients look for routine maintenance while others require tooth replacement or cosmetic work. Here is more information about types of services dentists offer:
Receiving Preventive Dental Care
Preventive dental care forms the foundation of most dental practices. A dentist typically offers cleanings to remove plaque and tartar, and these visits often include an oral exam. Regular checkups allow a provider to monitor changes in your teeth and gums over time. Fluoride treatments and sealants are two other preventive services that may be beneficial to children and teens specifically. Fluoride is applied to the surface of the teeth, while sealants are placed on the chewing surfaces of molars to help prevent tooth decay.
Having Routine Digital Imaging
Digital imaging gives a dentist a detailed view of areas that are not visible during a standard exam. X-rays can show a variety of information to help the dentist provide adequate treatment:
- The condition of tooth roots
- The bone around your teeth
- Spaces between teeth
- The development of incoming teeth
- Hidden cavities or decay
- Impacted teeth that may require treatment
- Signs of possible infections or abscesses
- Structural issues in the jaw or facial bones
Replacing Missing Teeth
Tooth loss is common, and several restoration options exist for patients who want to fill gaps in their smile. Dental implants and porcelain fixed bridges are two potential solutions. Each approach addresses missing teeth in a different way. It is beneficial to know which options a dentist provides.
Porcelain fixed bridges are one way to replace one or more missing teeth. A bridge connects to nearby teeth to hold a replacement in place. Dental implants are placed into the jaw to support a replacement tooth, and this method is designed to function alongside your natural teeth. A provider who offers implants can walk you through the steps and the expected timeline. Here are some benefits of dental implants:
- With proper care, implants are a long-term solution that can last a lifetime.
- Implants do not require the alteration of adjacent teeth, preserving their natural strength and health.
- Implants stimulate the jawbone, preventing bone loss that often occurs after tooth loss.
- There are generally no dietary restrictions with dental implants.
Discussing Cosmetic Options
Cosmetic services focus on the appearance of your teeth rather than only their function. Teeth whitening is one common treatment, and it aims to lighten the shade of natural teeth. A provider who offers whitening can explain the process and what to expect from it.
Dental crowns and clear braces are two other, more involved, cosmetic and restorative choices. Crowns cover a tooth to change its shape or protect its structure, and clear braces gradually shift the position of teeth. If you want a discreet alignment option, you may prefer clear braces over traditional metal versions.
Find a Dentist Near You
Finding the right dentist starts with matching a provider’s services to your needs, so start by thinking about your dental needs and compare them to a provider’s offered services. Some dentists also offer emergency care for after-hours injuries and root canals. If you want to learn more about dental care and offered services, consult a dental provider near you.
