Finding the right dentist near you can be a daunting task. However, using the internet can make this process easier and quicker. It is important to consider factors such as customer reviews, certifications, and experience. A toothache is a common reason that people visit a dental clinic, but there are many other problems that could require emergency care. From teeth trauma to lost fillings, crowns and bridges, a dentist near me can provide same-day treatment for most emergencies.
To find a good dentist, you should look for a doctor with a good reputation and has a positive online presence. You should also check their credentials to ensure they are board-certified and have a state license.
Cosmetic Dentistry
Cosmetic dentistry is a specialty that focuses on aesthetic procedures and improving the appearance of your smile. It differs from traditional dental treatments, which are meant to keep your mouth healthy and free of disease.
Cosmetic treatments include teeth whitening, dental bonding, veneers, and tooth and gum contouring. They can help correct imperfections that you may be self-conscious about, such as crooked teeth or a missing tooth.
The best cosmetic dentists have taken extra training in this collection of procedures, and have a wealth of experience using them. They have a good understanding of the latest materials and techniques, and will combine this with an artistic eye that creates a natural-looking result. They can also advise you on how to maintain your new look with a routine oral hygiene plan. This will include brushing, flossing and visiting the dentist for regular checkups and cleanings. This will ensure that your new look lasts for as long as possible.
Crowns & Fillings
Dental fillings and crowns are common treatments to repair tooth damage. The dentist uses composite resin to “fill in” the damaged area and keep decay-causing bacteria out. The material is also useful for repairing chips, improving the shape of a tooth, or covering discolored teeth. In some cases, the dentist might recommend a crown rather than a filling to protect a severely damaged or weakened tooth that may otherwise break.
When a tooth cavity is left untreated, it usually grows bigger and deeper. This can compromise the overall health of the tooth and lead to further problems. Dental fillings are typically used for small cavities and teeth that don’t experience heavy biting or chewing forces, such as the front teeth. The dentist might recommend a crown when a cavity is too large for a composite filling. Dental crowns are stronger and more durable than tooth fillings, and they can make a restored tooth function like the natural one.
Dental Implants
Replacing missing teeth with dental implants is considered a standard treatment by dentists who specialize in conditions of the mouth and jaw (oral and maxillofacial surgeon), those who treat the structures that support the teeth and gums (periodontists), or those who design and place artificial teeth (prosthodontists). The implant itself looks like an artificial tooth root and provides a strong foundation for fixed or removable replacement teeth.
After a comprehensive exam, including panoramic X-rays and a 3D cone beam CT scan of the mouth and jaw, the dentist will determine whether you have enough healthy bone to support an implant. If not, a bone graft may need to be performed first.
During the surgical phase, the doctor will insert a titanium implant post into the bone where the missing tooth used to be. The implant will fuse to the bone in a process called osseointegration, making it as strong as your natural tooth roots. After about six months, the implant will be ready to receive a crown.
Emergency Dentistry
A dental abscess is one of the most common reasons for a patient to seek immediate care, but these painful infections are not always easy to detect. If left untreated, a dental abscess can lead to serious infection, jaw pain, and even swollen lymph nodes.
If you are suffering from a dental emergency, you should rinse your mouth with warm water to reduce swelling. Cover any jagged edges of your tooth with a piece of wax or sugar-free gum, and try to eat soft foods. If your jaw feels stiff, you should apply a cold compress. You should also avoid taking over-the-counter pain relievers until you are able to see a dentist.