General Dentistry
General Dentistry is the term that refers to basic dental treatments like scaling, extractions, cavity fillings, root canal treatment, fluoride treatment etc.
Scaling & Polishing: It is a procedure to clean the accumulated tartar and stains between the teeth and on the lingual side of the teeth using ultrasonic vibrator. Scaling keeps your teeth clean and the gums healthy thereby preventing any gum diseases.
Scaling is usually a single sitting procedure and takes about 40 to 45 min only.
It is only a myth that scaling creates gap in the teeth. The fact is it removes the tartar which causes spaces between the teeth.
Cavity Fillings: A filling is a way to replace the decayed/damaged tooth structure and restoring it back to its normal function.
Filling material: One does not suit all!!! The dentist will according to the clinical situation choose what’s best for you. Depending on the dentist’s assessment, you will be suggested one of the following materials.
- Gold
- Silver
- Composite
- Porcelain
What happens if we delay the treatment? On delaying the treatment, the decay will grow further into the tooth structure and eventually reaching into the pulp chamber. At this stage, to get the tooth back to its normal function the dentist will have to perform a root canal treatment followed by a crown.
How do you know if you need a filling? If you have a Blackish-Brownish discolouration on your tooth surface it is time you visit a dentist for examination. Another indication can be food lodgment in a tooth. Lastly mild sensitivity can be another indicator.