Adult Dentistry 101: Everything You Need To Know

How well you take care of your teeth and gums will influence your oral health and risk factor of decay. That’s why it is recommended you visit an adult dentist near you regularly, at least every six months to have your teeth and gums examined.

Adult dentistry is a dental specialty that deals with diagnosing, preventing, and treating dental problems in adults. Your family or general dentist Milford, CT can carry out the needed dental procedures to support your oral health.

Our adult dentistry in Milford, CT, services include:

1. Preventive dental procedures

Our primary focus is to prevent dental decay and infection and that is we offer treatments that are geared to support the health of your teeth and gums. The various procedures include:

• Dental exams and cleaning

The American Dental Association advises that you get regular cleaning and exams at least twice a year. The practice allows the dentist to examine your teeth and detect any dental problems on time. If you are a new client, the dentist will do a comprehensive dental examination that involves an x-ray and other diagnostic tools.

After the physical exam, the dentist or hygienist will perform professional teeth cleaning. The dentist will use a small mirror and a scaler to remove any plaques accumulated on the gum line. Teeth cleaning can help prevent decay and gum disease as well as preserve jaw integrity.

• Fluoride treatment

Fluoride, a naturally occurring mineral, strengthens the enamel and makes it strong enough to withstand decay and cavities. Fluoride treatment is recommended for people who are at risk of cavities and it can be done every three, six, or twelve months. The dentist will apply fluoride varnish, gel, or foam on the teeth and leave it for a few minutes for the enamel to absorb the mineral.

• Dental sealants

Although dental sealants are mostly recommended for children, adults with healthy teeth can also benefit from these plastic coatings. However, the dentist will use these coating to protect your teeth if you are at risk of developing cavities. The process of fixing the sealants lasts for about 30 minutes. The dentist will clean the teeth to be sealed and condition them to make it easy for the sealants to bond on the teeth.

2. Restorative procedures

When you have decay or cavities, the dentist will perform restorative procedures to fix the integrity of the teeth.

• Dental fillings

When you have minor decay that only affects the surface of the teeth, the dentist will recommend teeth fillings. The restorations come in porcelain, resin, or metals. The procedure involves removing the damaged part and replacing it with a filling.

• Root canal therapy

A root canal therapy is done if the decay extends to the inner pulp cavity. The procedure is done to remove the infected pulp to stop the spread of the infection and preserve the teeth.

• Tooth extraction

Extraction is done to remove severely damaged or impacted teeth. The procedure can be simple or surgical and it can last for about 30 to 60 minutes or more depending on the position of the affected tooth.

• Dental implants

These are metal posts used to replace missing teeth that have been extracted. The dentist will surgically fix the screws on the jaw to support the artificial teeth.

• Dentures and bridges

These are also done to replace the missing teeth, but they are non-invasive. Unlike implants, the bridges and dentures may need replacement after a few years.

3. Cosmetic dental procedures

Dentistry for adults also includes procedures that are designed to correct problems like cracks, chips, and discoloration. Some of the treatments that the dentist can use include veneers and crowns that are ideal if you have worn-down, cracked, chipped, and discolored teeth. Dental bonding can also be used if you have minor chips and stains.

Professional teeth whitening is also part of the cosmetic dental treatment designed to bleach the teeth and brighten up your smile.

Schedule an Appointment

Visit Big Smiles Pediatric Dentistry if you are looking for pediatric and adult dentistry near you.