Dentistry can sometimes feel like a mystery, especially when you’re not sure why certain treatments are necessary or what’s going on during your routine visits. From fluoride treatments to root canals, every step your dentist takes is designed to keep your teeth and gums healthy. Let’s break down some of the most common dental procedures and explain why dentists perform them.
1. Why Do Dentists Use Fluoride?
Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that plays a crucial role in preventing tooth decay and strengthening enamel—the protective outer layer of your teeth. During your dental visits, your dentist may apply a fluoride treatment, which helps to:
Rebuild weakened enamel: Over time, acids from food, drinks, and bacteria can weaken your tooth enamel. Fluoride helps remineralize and strengthen it, making your teeth more resistant to decay.
Prevent cavities: Fluoride makes it harder for bacteria to produce the acid that leads to cavities, acting as a shield against tooth decay.
Protect sensitive teeth: For patients with sensitivity, fluoride can help reduce discomfort by creating a stronger barrier over exposed dentin (the inner layer of the tooth).
In essence, fluoride is a key preventative measure that helps keep your teeth strong and healthy for the long term.
2. Why Do Dentists Polish Teeth?
After a thorough cleaning, you might notice that your dentist or hygienist polishes your teeth. While this may feel like the finishing touch, it serves an important purpose:
Smooths the tooth surface: Polishing removes surface stains and plaque that aren’t eliminated during routine brushing or scaling. A smoother surface makes it harder for plaque and bacteria to adhere to your teeth.
Brightens your smile: By polishing away stains from coffee, tea, wine, or smoking, your teeth can appear brighter and cleaner.
Prevents tartar buildup: Polished teeth are less likely to harbor plaque, which can harden into tartar (calculus) if not removed.
While polishing is largely cosmetic, it can enhance the effects of a professional cleaning by promoting cleaner, healthier teeth.
3. Why Do Dentists Wear Masks?
Dentists wear masks for two main reasons: your safety and theirs. Here’s why:
Infection control: Masks protect both patients and dental professionals from airborne germs, bacteria, and viruses that can be present in saliva or aerosols produced during dental procedures. This is especially important during treatments that involve drilling, cleaning, or rinsing.
Hygiene and cleanliness: Wearing a mask ensures that any bacteria or germs from the dentist’s mouth are not transferred to you, and vice versa. It’s a key part of maintaining a sterile environment during your appointment.
In short, masks are a critical part of infection control that keeps dental visits as safe as possible for everyone involved.
4. Why Do Dentists Do Crowns?
A dental crown is essentially a cap that covers a damaged tooth. Dentists recommend crowns when a tooth is too weak or damaged to function on its own. Crowns are used for several reasons:
Strengthening a weakened tooth: If a tooth is cracked, decayed, or has a large filling, it may not be strong enough to withstand normal chewing forces. A crown reinforces the tooth, protecting it from further damage.
Restoring a tooth’s appearance: Crowns can restore the shape, size, and appearance of a tooth, especially when it’s been broken or worn down.
Post-root canal protection: After a root canal, the tooth can become brittle and is more likely to break. A crown protects the tooth and restores its function.
To hold a dental bridge: Crowns are often used to support dental bridges, which replace missing teeth.
Crowns are a versatile treatment that not only improve a tooth’s appearance but also provide long-term protection and durability.
5. Why Do Dentists Do Root Canals?
When a tooth becomes infected or severely damaged, a root canal may be the only way to save it. Here’s why dentists perform root canals:
To remove infection: Inside each tooth is the pulp, a soft tissue containing nerves and blood vessels. If this pulp becomes infected due to deep decay or injury, it can cause intense pain and swelling. A root canal removes the infected tissue, stopping the pain and preventing the infection from spreading.
To save the tooth: Without treatment, the infection can lead to abscesses, bone loss, and the need for tooth extraction. Root canals allow the dentist to clean out the infection, disinfect the area, and seal the tooth to prevent future problems.
Relief from pain: Patients often experience significant pain relief after a root canal because the source of infection and inflammation is removed.
Thanks to modern techniques, root canals are now relatively painless procedures and can save a tooth that would otherwise need to be removed.
Final Thoughts
Each dental treatment your dentist performs has a specific purpose aimed at preserving or restoring your oral health. Whether it’s using fluoride to prevent cavities, polishing your teeth for a cleaner smile, or performing a root canal to save an infected tooth, these procedures are key to keeping your teeth strong and healthy for years to come.
If you ever have questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to book an appointment with us at 9558 8988 or info@painfreedentistsydney.com.au. Understanding your care is the first step toward maintaining a healthy, confident smile!