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A healthy smile is a reflection of your overall well-being. And it's no secret that general dentistry plays an essential role in maintaining good oral health. Whether you're dealing with cavities, missing teeth or yellowing enamel, there are several common dental services available to help restore your pearly whites and keep them looking their best. 

Dental Fillings

Dental fillings are one of the most common general dentistry services that people receive. They are used to restore teeth damaged by decay or trauma. If left untreated, cavities can cause serious problems and even lead to tooth loss.

The procedure for getting a dental filling is relatively simple. First, the dentist will numb the area around the affected tooth with local anesthesia. Then they will remove any decayed material from the tooth and clean it thoroughly.

Once the tooth is cleaned and prepped, your dentist will place a filling material into the cavity to seal it up and prevent further damage. The type of filling material used depends on several factors, including location in your mouth, cost, personal preferences, etc.

Dental Crowns

Dental crowns are a common general dentistry service used to protect and restore damaged teeth. A crown is essentially a cap that covers the entire visible portion of a tooth, providing support and protection from further damage.

There are several reasons why your dentist may recommend a dental crown. One of the most common reasons is to repair teeth that have been damaged by decay or trauma. Crowns can also be used to strengthen weakened teeth or protect them after root canal therapy.

Crowns come in various materials, including ceramic, porcelain-fused-to-metal, gold alloy, and zirconia. Your choice will depend on factors such as durability, cost, and aesthetic preferences.

The process for getting a dental crown typically involves two visits to your dentist's office. During the first visit, your tooth will be prepared by removing any decay or damage before taking impressions for the lab to create your custom crown. In some cases, a temporary crown will be placed while you wait for your permanent one.

Once your permanent crown is ready at the lab (usually within 2-3 weeks), you'll return for another appointment, where it will be cemented into place over your natural tooth structure.

Dental Bridges

Dental bridges are a common general dentistry service that can help restore missing teeth. A bridge is essentially a prosthetic tooth or set of teeth that are anchored in place by the surrounding natural teeth.

The process of getting a dental bridge typically involves two appointments with your dentist. During the first appointment, your dentist will prepare the adjacent teeth for anchoring the bridge, which may involve removing some enamel to make room for crowns.

Once the preparation work is done, your dentist will take impressions of your teeth and send them off to a dental lab, where they will create a custom-fitted bridge just for you. In most cases, you'll receive a temporary bridge to wear while you wait for your permanent one to be made.

When it's time to have your new bridge fitted, your dentist will remove the temporary one and carefully attach the permanent one using special dental cement. With proper care and maintenance, dental bridges can last many years and provide an effective solution for replacing missing teeth.

Dental Implants

Dental implants are an excellent option for individuals who have lost teeth due to injury or decay. Unlike dentures, dental implants are a permanent solution that can last a lifetime with proper care and maintenance.

The implant procedure involves placing small titanium posts into the jawbone where the missing tooth used to be. Over time, the bone will grow around the post, creating a strong foundation for a replacement tooth.

One of the major benefits of dental implants is their ability to look and feel like natural teeth. They are also very durable and can withstand normal biting forces without any issues.

Another benefit is that they do not require any special cleaning procedures like dentures do. Patients simply need to brush and floss them just like regular teeth.

Dental implants offer numerous advantages over other tooth replacement options, such as dentures or bridges. If you're considering getting dental implants, be sure to consult with your dentist first to determine if it's the right choice for you.

Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening is one of the most popular general dentistry services available today. Many people are unhappy with the color of their teeth and turn to this service to improve their smile. There are many reasons why teeth can become discolored, such as consuming certain foods or drinks, smoking, or even just aging.

There are several options for teeth whitening, including in-office treatments and at-home kits. In-office treatments use a stronger concentration of bleaching agents than at-home kits and typically provide quicker results. At-home kits can be more convenient but may take longer to achieve noticeable results.

It's important to note that while teeth whitening is generally safe and effective, it's not suitable for everyone. People with sensitive teeth or gum disease may want to avoid this treatment as it could cause discomfort or further damage.

If you're looking for a quick way to brighten your smile and boost your confidence, then teeth whitening might be worth considering. Just make sure you talk to your dentist first to determine which option is best for you!

If you're experiencing any dental issues or have concerns about your overall oral health, schedule an appointment with your dentist today. It's always better to be proactive than reactive when it comes to your teeth! Remember that taking care of your teeth is essential not only for a beautiful smile but also for good overall health. Take advantage of these general dentistry services offered by dental professionals so you can keep smiling with confidence every single day!

Visit Jeanne V. Devi DDS at 595 E Colorado Blvd Suite 603, Pasadena, CA 91101, for the best dental care, or call us at (626) 795-2544 to book an appointment.