The good news is that a lot of dental problems can be prevented or treated early. The earlier a problem is treated, the less likely it is to worsen and lead to more expensive, time-consuming and stressful procedures.
For example, if a patient develops tooth decay that has eroded the enamel and is causing a hole in the tooth called a cavity, the dentist can repair it with a filling. Fillings are a quick and painless procedure where the dentist removes the decay, cleans the area, and then fills the hole with a special type of filling material.
When a crack or chip extends deep into the tooth, the dentist may need to perform a root canal treatment, which is also known as endodontic therapy. In this treatment, the dentist will remove the diseased pulp tissue inside the tooth, clean and disinfect the canals, then fill the empty space with a rubbery dental material called gutta percha. The dentist will then seal the tooth to prevent bacteria from re-entering. In the past, if a cracked or damaged tooth had a diseased nerve, it was often necessary to lose that tooth. Now, with the help of root canal therapy, the teeth can often be saved.잠실임플란트
Cosmetic treatments that can improve your appearance include veneers, inlays and onlays, bonding, crowns, bridges, and implants. These can correct minor defects, such as chips and discoloration, but the results vary in how long they last. Some last only a few years, while others can last much longer, depending on the materials and how well they are cared for.
If you are not sure what type of cosmetic treatment is right for you, the dentist can provide advice based on your individual needs and preferences. In addition, the dentist can work with you to make the best use of your insurance. Typically, insurance plans will pay an annual maximum for services. After that, you will be responsible for the cost of any additional services.
While many dental professionals are general practitioners, a number of specialists are available to treat complex or specific problems. Periodontists diagnose and treat gum diseases such as periodontitis; oral and maxillofacial surgeons treat injuries or other conditions of the mouth, jaw, and facial bones; and prosthodontists specialize in the replacement and restoration of teeth with dental implants and bridges.잠실치과
Many of these specialists have advanced degrees and are trained to detect problems that may not be apparent to the general practitioner, including some signs of systemic disease such as diabetes and heart disease. In fact, some research shows correlations between certain dental conditions and a host of other chronic health issues. The exact relationships are still under study, but the links should not be overlooked. Fortunately, efforts are under way to better integrate dental and whole-body healthcare.