Common Dental Procedures

The most common dental procedures performed today are the following:

Scaling and Root Planing

This procedure removes hard deposits from the root surface and smoothens the root surface. It is usually done for people with gum disease (gingivitis)

Extractions

If a tooth becomes damaged or decays to the point where it can’t be saved, it is extracted. The patient may need a local anesthetic to numb the area, but this is usually not required for minor extractions. If anesthesia is used, it is usually provided by injection or inhaled.

Impaction

When impacted teeth prevent normal eruption of baby teeth and can cause pain. Impactions can be removed surgically or through the use of forceps.

Root Canal Therapy

This procedure removes the pulp (nerve and blood supply) from inside the tooth root. This allows the tooth to heal properly.

Porcelain Crowns

These are placed over decayed areas of the tooth to prevent future decay.

Endodontics

This is the specialty of dentists who perform endodontic surgery. The removal of pulp, which is infected or diseased.

Tooth Extraction

Tooth extraction is the most common major dental procedure. A tooth may be extracted because it is severely broken down, abscessed, fractured, or infected.