The moment you discover that first hole in your tooth, you probably want to know if it can be fixed. And how much that fix might cost. Thankfully, dentistry is one of the few medical fields where services are standard and predictable. Most dentists offer basically the same services and follow similar pricing models, so once you understand the basics, finding out what’s right for you should be fairly straightforward. We compiled this list of 12 common dental services that you should know about. If they are something you need, then explore in the future, mark them on your calendar now so that you don’t forget for dental checkup.
Dental Checkup
The first item on our list is the most important one: your checkup. This is the visit to the dentist to get your teeth and gums evaluated. Dentists recommend that you have a checkup once every six months or once a year. Your teeth and gums are living tissues that change over time, so at the very least you should get a checkup every year.
The goal of the checkup is to catch any abnormalities or issues in your mouth, such as a cavity, as early as possible. You can also use the checkup as a chance to ask any questions you might have about your dental health. The cost of a regular checkup is usually pretty low, and it’s almost always covered by dental insurance.
Teeth cleaning & polishing dental services
A teeth cleaning is the process by which your dentist removes surface stains and debris from your teeth. Most people go in for a cleaning and polishing once every six months. In between cleanings, you can also brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes, floss once a day, and use a mouthwash once a day.
Teeth cleaning and polishing usually cost around $40 to $60, which is a great value since it is necessary to keep your teeth healthy and prevent cavities. If you want to keep your teeth in the best shape possible, you need to get them cleaned at least once every six months. Most insurance plans cover teeth cleaning, but it’s always best to check your coverage before scheduling an appointment.
Teeth whitening
Teeth whitening is a cosmetic dental procedure that uses hydrogen peroxide to lighten teeth that have become stained over time. It is one of the most popular cosmetic Dental Services procedures performed in the United States. Even if you’re not self-conscious about your teeth looking yellow, you should still get your teeth cleaned every six months.
Teeth that aren’t cleaned regularly are more susceptible to cavities, gum disease, and other health issues. Whitening costs around $300 and can vary depending on the dentist you choose and the materials they use. It’s a relatively inexpensive procedure compared to other cosmetic dental treatments, but it can still be pricey for people on a budget. Get your dental checkup in time!
Cavity filling dental services
If you get a cavity in one of your teeth, your dentist will likely suggest that you get it filled. Cavity filling is the process of removing the decayed portion of your tooth and replacing it with a filling material. Cavities are caused by bacteria that eat away at the enamel on your teeth.
The enamel is the hard outer coating that protects your teeth. If the bacteria eat through the enamel, they’ll start to attack the softer substances inside your tooth. If the bacteria reach the inner pulp of your tooth, it will die. Cavities are painful, and they can get worse if left untreated. They can also lead to other more serious dental issues, such as tooth loss.
Root canal dental checkup
Root canal treatment is a procedure that removes the decayed pulp inside a tooth. If left untreated, the infection will spread to the rest of your body.
The infection is also extremely painful and causes other complications in your oral health. Root canal treatment is the most expensive dental procedure on this list, with some estimates suggesting that it costs $1500 per tooth. It is necessary to consult with a dental specialist to determine if you need root canal treatment. If you have an infected tooth, it may be causing you pain.
Tooth extraction Dental Services
If you don’t want to get a root canal treatment, your dentist may recommend that you get the tooth extracted. There are a number of reasons why your dentist might recommend tooth extraction.
If you have a tooth removed, it’s important to replace it with an implant. Teeth removal is often the last resort for treating dental issues. It’s better to avoid this treatment if possible, but sometimes it’s the only way to solve a problem.
Conclusion
You’ll need to visit the dentist for many different reasons over the course of your life, and the sooner you start going, the better off you’ll be. Teeth cleaning, whitening, and filling are all relatively low-cost procedures that help keep your teeth healthy and strong. Root canal treatment and tooth extraction are procedures that are sometimes necessary to treat dental issues. It’s important to be proactive about your dental health so that you don’t need these procedures. Keep your teeth and gums healthy with these common dental procedures and you’ll be able to enjoy a lifetime of healthy smiles!