Common Procedures

Maintaining good oral health involves more than just brushing and flossing. People may need various dental procedures throughout life to prevent, treat, or correct oral health issues. When it comes to common procedures in Wells, ME, knowing what to expect and when to seek help from a dentist in Wells, ME, can help ensure that your dental care needs are met effectively. Common procedures range from preventive care to restorative treatments, ensuring that your teeth and gums remain healthy and functional at every stage of life.

The Importance of Regular Dental Visits

Before diving into the specific procedures, it's crucial to emphasize the importance of routine check-ups with a dentist in Wells, ME. Regular dental visits serve as the foundation of preventive care. These appointments allow your dentist to identify potential issues early, preventing more invasive and costly treatments later.  

Most dentists recommend visiting a dental office at least twice yearly for cleanings, examinations, and X-rays if necessary. To safeguard your lovely smile and maintain your oral health, contact us at Nortey Dental for the best dental care and treatments. 

Dental Cleanings and Exams

Two of the most common procedures in Wells, ME, are routine dental cleanings and exams. These visits are essential for maintaining oral health and preventing common dental problems such as cavities, gum disease, and tooth decay. 

Dental Cleanings

During a cleaning, the dental hygienist will remove plaque and tartar buildup from the surfaces of your teeth and along the gumline. Even with the best brushing and flossing techniques, some areas are hard to reach, making professional cleanings necessary. 

Dental Exams

Our dentist in Wells, ME, will thoroughly examine your teeth, gums, and mouth to check for signs of decay, infection, or other issues. X-rays may be taken to detect problems that aren't visible to the naked eye, such as cavities between teeth or issues with tooth roots. 

Regular cleanings and exams prevent serious dental problems and maintain oral health. 

Dental Fillings

Cavities are among the most common oral health issues, affecting people of all ages. Fortunately, dental fillings are a straightforward and effective treatment for restoring the structure of a tooth damaged by decay. 

Procedure Overview

During this procedure, our dentist in Wells, ME, will remove the decayed portion of the tooth and then fill the space with a material such as composite resin, porcelain, or amalgam. Composite fillings are especially popular because they can be matched to the natural color of your teeth, providing a seamless look. 

Fillings help restore tooth function and prevent further decay from spreading, making them one of the most common restorative procedures in modern dentistry.

Tooth Extractions

While preserving natural teeth is always the goal, there are instances when tooth extraction is necessary to protect your overall oral health. Tooth extractions are common procedures in Wells, ME, and may be needed for several reasons, including severe tooth decay, gum disease, or trauma. 

There are two main types of tooth extractions:  

• Simple Extractions: The extraction process is relatively straightforward if the tooth is visible above the gumline. Our dentist in Wells, ME, will numb the area and then loosen and remove the tooth.
• Surgical Extractions: In cases where the tooth is impacted (such as wisdom teeth) or broken below the gumline, a surgical extraction may be required. This procedure involves making an incision in the gum to access and remove the tooth. 

Depending on your specific needs, tooth extractions may be followed by options for tooth replacement, such as dental implants, bridges, or dentures.

Dental Crowns

Dental crowns are a common solution for teeth damaged by decay or trauma or teeth that have large fillings that can no longer support them. A crown is a custom-made cap that covers the entire tooth, restoring its shape, strength, and appearance.

Procedure Overview

Our dentist in Wells, ME, will prepare the tooth by removing a small portion of the outer layer. Impressions will be taken and sent to a dental lab where your custom crown will be created. At the same time, while waiting for the permanent crown, a temporary one may be placed on the tooth. Once the final crown is ready, it will be securely bonded to the tooth. 

Crowns are designed to blend in with your natural teeth, providing both durability and aesthetic appeal. 

Root Canal Therapy

Root canal therapy is often recommended for teeth that have suffered from severe decay or infection reaching the tooth's pulp. Root canals are common procedures in Wells, ME, designed to save teeth that might otherwise need to be extracted. 

Procedure Overview

During a root canal, our dentist in Wells, ME, will remove the infected pulp from the inside of the tooth, clean and disinfect the area, and fill the canal with a biocompatible material. Afterward, a crown will be placed over the tooth to restore its strength and function. 

While the term "root canal" might evoke fear, advancements in dental technology have made the procedure much more comfortable and efficient than it once was.

Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening has become increasingly popular as more individuals seek to enhance their smiles. It is one of the most requested cosmetic dental treatments and can be performed in the dental office or at home with professional-grade kits provided by our dentist in Wells, ME. 

• In-Office Whitening: In-office whitening offers the fastest and most noticeable results. The dentist applies a powerful whitening agent to your teeth and uses a special light or laser to activate the bleaching agents.
• At-Home Whitening Kits: Alternatively, our dentist may provide you with custom-made trays and whitening gel you can use at home. While this method takes longer, it allows for more gradual results and control over the whitening process. 

Teeth whitening is a safe and effective way to improve the brightness of your smile, addressing stains caused by food, drinks, or aging.

Dental Implants

Dental implants are a revolutionary solution for tooth replacement. They are a permanent and natural-looking alternative to dentures or bridges. Implants can replace one or more missing teeth, and they are among the most advanced common procedures in Wells, ME.

Procedure Overview

Our dentist in Wells, ME, will surgically place a titanium post into the jawbone, which acts as the root for the replacement tooth. Over time, the implant fuses with the bone, creating a stable foundation for the new tooth. Once healed, an abutment and crown will be attached to the implant to restore the function and appearance of the missing tooth. 

Dental implants offer long-lasting durability and help preserve the jawbone, which can deteriorate when teeth are missing.

Orthodontic Treatments

Orthodontic treatments like braces or clear aligners are common solutions for individuals with crooked or misaligned teeth. They can help improve the appearance of your smile and correct bite issues that may lead to more serious dental problems down the road.

The most common orthodontic treatment options include:  

• Braces: Traditional braces use metal brackets and wires to gradually move teeth into the desired position.
• Clear Aligners: Clear aligners are a more discreet option. They offer the same results as braces but use a series of clear, removable trays.

Our dentist in Wells, ME, specializing in orthodontics, can guide you through the process and help you achieve a straighter, healthier smile. 

Conclusion

Dental care is more than addressing problems when they arise — it involves prevention, restoration, and improvement. From cleanings and exams to more complex treatments like dental implants and root canals, numerous common procedures in Wells, ME, can help you maintain your oral health for life. Regular visits to our trusted dentist in Wells, ME, ensure that you stay on top of your dental care and enjoy a healthy, confident smile for years to come.

Schedule your appointment today at Nortey Dental, located at 1332 Post Rd, Wells, ME 04090, by calling (207) 646-5297. To learn more about the various services we provide, please visit our official website.