The Lesser-Known Powers Of Dentists
Everyone knows that dentists clean their teeth, fill cavities, and perform root canals when necessary.
What most people don't know are the details regarding the myriad of other services they provide.
While mostly preventative in nature, your dentist's office also provides many other services, from corrective to cosmetic.
Here are just a few lesser known services: 1.
Teeth Whitening: While most people have an idea they can get this done, they may not know the methods used.
Some professionals use a bleaching technique to whiten, while others use a special UV lamp.
People with stained teeth usually opt for this treatment rather than more dramatic or expensive options.
It can take two to four treatments or more to achieve maximum whiteness.
2.
Veneers: Veneers are a thin restorative covering made to enhance the look of a tooth or to protect a damaged tooth.
While mostly used for cosmetic purposes, veneers can also help correct cross-bites or problems with small or large teeth that cannot be corrected with traditional orthodontics.
Veneers can also help protect and lengthen teeth that have been damaged over time from routine wear or tooth grinding.
3.
Sedation Dentistry: Some people are terrified of going to the dentist.
Their phobia keeps them from getting even a cleaning or check-up, leading to gum disease, tooth decay and eventually tooth loss.
Sedation dentistry can take a variety of forms, depending on the patient and the level of anxiety.
Some may be fine with nitrous oxide gas and sedative pills, while others may feel the need for intravenous drugs to help control their anxiety.
4.
Laser treatments: The use of lasers has transformed the practice in many ways.
The laser has pinpoint accuracy and can treat cavities, cosmetic issues or periodontal disease with a minimum of pain and usually without having to use numbing agents.
Lasers are also faster, minimizing the time spent in the chair.
5.
Halitosis diagnosis and treatment: No matter how often you brush and floss, you may have a gum issue that causes bad breath.
Checking for gum disease and cancer screenings are important and should be done at least twice a year.
6.
Scaling and root planing: As we age, our gums can recede and expose the sensitive root of our teeth.
While normally covered and protected by the gum, once the gum recedes it can cause sensitivity and pain.
Scaling and root planing help correct these issues by removing pockets of bacteria from below the gum line.
Sometimes the gum does not recede but instead swells.
Scaling and root planing will also help correct this issue.
Not every trip to the dentist has to be for a traditional cleaning or a filling.
There are so many other services available at your local office that you may not be aware of.
All you need to do is ask.
Whether you want a cosmetic change or you need a corrective measure, you should discuss all of the treatments and options available with your doctor.
What most people don't know are the details regarding the myriad of other services they provide.
While mostly preventative in nature, your dentist's office also provides many other services, from corrective to cosmetic.
Here are just a few lesser known services: 1.
Teeth Whitening: While most people have an idea they can get this done, they may not know the methods used.
Some professionals use a bleaching technique to whiten, while others use a special UV lamp.
People with stained teeth usually opt for this treatment rather than more dramatic or expensive options.
It can take two to four treatments or more to achieve maximum whiteness.
2.
Veneers: Veneers are a thin restorative covering made to enhance the look of a tooth or to protect a damaged tooth.
While mostly used for cosmetic purposes, veneers can also help correct cross-bites or problems with small or large teeth that cannot be corrected with traditional orthodontics.
Veneers can also help protect and lengthen teeth that have been damaged over time from routine wear or tooth grinding.
3.
Sedation Dentistry: Some people are terrified of going to the dentist.
Their phobia keeps them from getting even a cleaning or check-up, leading to gum disease, tooth decay and eventually tooth loss.
Sedation dentistry can take a variety of forms, depending on the patient and the level of anxiety.
Some may be fine with nitrous oxide gas and sedative pills, while others may feel the need for intravenous drugs to help control their anxiety.
4.
Laser treatments: The use of lasers has transformed the practice in many ways.
The laser has pinpoint accuracy and can treat cavities, cosmetic issues or periodontal disease with a minimum of pain and usually without having to use numbing agents.
Lasers are also faster, minimizing the time spent in the chair.
5.
Halitosis diagnosis and treatment: No matter how often you brush and floss, you may have a gum issue that causes bad breath.
Checking for gum disease and cancer screenings are important and should be done at least twice a year.
6.
Scaling and root planing: As we age, our gums can recede and expose the sensitive root of our teeth.
While normally covered and protected by the gum, once the gum recedes it can cause sensitivity and pain.
Scaling and root planing help correct these issues by removing pockets of bacteria from below the gum line.
Sometimes the gum does not recede but instead swells.
Scaling and root planing will also help correct this issue.
Not every trip to the dentist has to be for a traditional cleaning or a filling.
There are so many other services available at your local office that you may not be aware of.
All you need to do is ask.
Whether you want a cosmetic change or you need a corrective measure, you should discuss all of the treatments and options available with your doctor.
Source...