Dentists diagnose and treat different diseases and conditions of the mouth, specifically the teeth and gum tissue. There are many different types of General Dentistry Services in Kona and, depending on the reason for an exam, a dentist may utilize one or more of these services during a single appointment.
Preventative Care
It’s recommended that patients visit a general dentist twice a year for preventative care. During this type of examination, the dentist will perform tests to check for signs of gum disease or tooth decay. Preventative exams are one of the common General Dentistry Services in Kona.
During a routine exam, Carter S. Yokoyama D.D.S. begins by taking x-rays of the patient’s teeth to look for cavities. A visual inspection of the gum tissue is also performed. The patient will have their teeth professionally cleaned and polished to remove any hardened plaque or tartar.
Fillings and Root Canals
If a cavity is found, a filling is needed. For this treatment, the dentist will use a dental drill to remove decay from the affected tooth. A special filling material, made from either metal or resin, is then inserted into the cavity. The filling prevents the cavity from worsening over time.
Some large cavities may require a root canal. This treatment is similar to a regular filling except the dentist must drill much deeper. The pulp of the tooth is removed, and the roots are filled with a special compound. A dental crown is often recommended to reinforce a tooth after a root canal.
Tooth Extractions
There are instances when a tooth cannot be saved, and a dentist must extract it. Fractured teeth are a leading reason for tooth extractions, followed by extreme decay. If a root canal fails after treatment, an extraction is often the only remaining option.
When a dentist extracts a tooth, they will take care to properly numb the patient’s mouth beforehand. Dental pliers are most commonly used to move the tooth back and forth until it’s loose enough to pull. Some bleeding and localized swelling may occur for a day or two following the procedure.
General dentists provide many helpful treatments for their patients. They commonly perform preventative exams, cavity fillings, and tooth extractions. Be sure to browse website to find out about other procedures offered by a local dentist.
