6 Common Dental Procedures in Tampa and What You Need to Know

At Friendly Smiles Dental Care, our approach prioritizes patient education on common dental procedures to enhance understanding and decision-making regarding oral health care. By providing detailed insights into each treatment, we aim to reduce patient anxiety and facilitate informed choices. Below, we offer an in-depth overview of six frequently performed dental procedures in Tampa, outlining their purposes, processes, and what patients can expect during and after treatment.

1. 1. Teeth Cleaning and Examination
      This primary dental care procedure involves removing plaque and tartar buildup that regular brushing and flossing can’t tackle. It’s complemented by a thorough dental examination, where your dentist checks for cavities, signs of gum disease, and other potential issues.

      
      What You Need to Know: Beyond keeping your teeth and gums healthy, these routine visits can reveal early signs of problems that could become serious if left unaddressed. Our dentists recommend undergoing a cleaning and examination every six months to maintain optimal oral health. These visits are also an opportunity for you to discuss any concerns or changes you’ve noticed in your oral health with us. Schedule an appointment at one of our four locations.

   2. Dental Fillings
      When tooth decay leads to cavities, dental fillings are the go-to solution. After removing the decayed material, your Tampa dentist will fill the cavity with a material like composite resin, which closely matches the color of your teeth, or other materials based on the tooth’s location and aesthetic considerations. 

      
      What You Need to Know: The process is straightforward and helps restore the tooth’s integrity and functionality. With advancements in dental technology, fillings are more comfortable and efficient than ever, often requiring just one visit to complete. The right aftercare can extend the life of your fillings and prevent future decay.

   3. Dental Crowns
      Crowns are custom-fitted caps placed over a tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. They’re ideal for teeth that are broken, worn down, or have had large fillings or root canal treatment. At Friendly Smiles, we do a lot of crowns and consider ourselves one of the best in the local Tampa market. 

      
      What You Need to Know: The process of getting a crown typically involves two visits: one to prepare the tooth and take impressions, and another to fit the permanent crown. The lifespan of a crown depends on the material used and your oral hygiene practices but can last from 5 to 15 years or longer with proper care.

   4. Dental Bridges
      A bridge is used to replace one or more missing teeth, spanning the space where the teeth are absent. The bridge is anchored on either side by crowns placed on the natural teeth or implants for support. This is a common procedure and is not one to be alarmed by. 

      
      What You Need to Know: Besides restoring your smile, bridges help maintain the shape of your face and alleviate stress on your bite by distributing the forces properly. It’s important to clean under and around the bridge to prevent plaque buildup and ensure the longevity of your bridge.

   5. Teeth Whitening
      Teeth whitening is a cosmetic procedure that can dramatically enhance the appearance of your smile. Using bleaching agents, this treatment lightens the existing color of your teeth to remove stains and discoloration. 

      
      What You Need to Know: Professional whitening offers more significant and safer results than over-the-counter products. Our dentists can customize the treatment to your specific needs, ensuring the best possible outcome while minimizing sensitivity and protecting your gums.

   6. Dental Implants
      Dental implants offer a permanent solution for replacing missing teeth. They involve the placement of a titanium post into the jawbone, which serves as a foundation for a replacement tooth, bridge, or denture. 

      
      What You Need to Know: Implants require a series of appointments and a healing period that allows the implant to integrate with the bone, a process known as osseointegration. This provides a stable and durable foundation for replacement teeth, improving functionality and offering a natural look and feel.
      

   
   At Friendly Smiles Dental Care in Tampa, we’re dedicated to providing comprehensive dental care tailored to your individual needs. Understanding these common procedures is the first step towards achieving and maintaining optimal oral health. If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment, our friendly team is here to assist you. Together, we can create a treatment plan that ensures the health and beauty of your smile for years to come.