Seven of the Most Common Types of Dental Procedures

Dental Procedures Introduction

Have you ever wondered what the most commonly performed dental treatments are? Or, been curious about certain types of dental procedures and how they work? At Chester County Family Dentistry we offer a variety of dental services for patients of all ages. And, we take pride and pleasure in helping to answer patient questions (like the two mentioned above).

Here, using evidence-based research, we provide greater insight into what the top seven most common dental procedures are, and how they help you achieve and maintain positive oral health.

In a medical expenditure panel survey (MEPS), common types of dental procedures were examined over a decade. The findings concluded that the most popular and frequently performed dental services were either diagnostic and/or preventative in nature (as you’ll see reflected below). The following diagnostic and preventative dentistry options in terms of frequency, were endodontic, orthodontic, prosthetic, and restorative dental procedures.

Take a look below for seven different examples of leading dental services:

• Examinations

  During a dental or “oral examination” your dentist checks for cavities, gum disease, and other types of abnormalities. This means also conducting an oral cancer screening and an evaluation of your neck and mouth. During your examination your dentist may also request X-Rays (see No. 3).

• Cleanings

  During a routine dental cleaning an oral hygienist will remove plaque and tartar from your teeth, polish your teeth with a special toothpaste, floss your teeth, and help you rinse your mouth of debris. Children will often receive a fluoride treatment (gently “painted” on the teeth), along with some adults (based on the dentist’s recommendation).

• X-Rays

  Dental X-Rays are an important diagnostic tool to help your dentist identify any issues more definitively (as compared with only a visual confirmation). In addition, X-Rays reveal the growth of teeth, jaw alignment, and bite. At CCFD, we use safer digital X-Rays with radiation exposure that is far less than with traditional X-Rays (80-percent-plus less).

• Cosmetic Dentistry

  Cosmetic dentistry is a category rather than a single procedure and includes a variety of dental procedures. Teeth whitening, porcelain veneers, dental implants, and orthodontic treatments such as braces, Invisalign, and retainers are all examples of cosmetic dental procedures.

• Extractions

  A tooth may need to be extracted if it has been subjected to infection, trauma, or crowding. Before performing a tooth extraction, your dentist will make sure the area of your mouth being worked on is properly numbed and that you are comfortable.

• Root Canal

  When the nerve or pulp of the tooth becomes infected, your dentist can perform a root canal to clean and disinfect the damaged area. Once the decay has been removed, your dentist will then seal the tooth to prevent further infection. Although root canals often get a bad wrap as painful, scary procedures, the process is not all that dissimilar to getting a crown or filling. And, this process actually saves the tooth from having to be removed.

• Dental Implants

  Dental implants are permanent options to replace missing teeth. Not only do missing teeth affect self-esteem and confidence, but can lead to oral health complications. Dental implants are durable, attractive, and can last for years to come.

At CCFD we perform every procedure listed above—and many more. That’s why local Chester County families (and those from surrounding areas) choose us as their dental home. Dr. David Montgomery and Dr. Ryan Dunn have combined decades of experience in providing expert, personalized dental care.

CCFD also offers mercury-free dentistry (for the safe removal of amalgam fillings), innovative laser dentistry treatments, tooth bonding, and more.

If you have a cavity that needs to be filled, book an appointment now. Or, for more information on the types of dental procedures we offer, call us today.