RCT

RCT stands for Root Canal Treatment. It is a dental procedure designed to treat and save a tooth that is severely infected or decayed. During a root canal, the dentist or endodontist (a specialist in dental pulp and the tissues surrounding the roots of a tooth) removes the damaged or infected pulp from the tooth, cleans and disinfects the area, and then seals it to prevent further infection. The pulp is the soft tissue inside the tooth that contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. Root canal treatment is crucial for alleviating pain, preventing the spread of infection, and preserving the natural tooth, thus avoiding the need for extraction. After the procedure, the tooth is usually restored with a crown to provide strength and protection.

Dental Scaling

Dental scaling is a common dental procedure performed by a dental hygienist or dentist to remove dental plaque and tartar (hardened plaque) from the surfaces of the teeth. Plaque is a soft, sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth, and if not removed, it can harden into tartar, which can lead to various oral health issues, including gum disease and tooth decay. During dental scaling, special tools, such as ultrasonic scalers or manual scalers, are used to carefully remove the accumulated plaque and tartar from the tooth surfaces, including below the gumline. The process aims to prevent and treat gum disease, as well as promote overall oral health. Dental scaling is typically followed by a procedure called root planing, where the root surfaces of the teeth are smoothed to discourage further buildup of plaque and tartar. Regular dental scaling as part of a dental cleaning routine is essential for maintaining good oral hygiene and preventing more serious dental problems. The frequency of dental scaling may vary based on an individual's oral health needs and their dentist's recommendations.

Dental Implants

Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that are surgically placed into the jawbone to provide a stable foundation for replacement teeth. These implants offer a long-term solution for individuals who have lost one or more teeth due to injury, decay, or other reasons. Dental implants consist of three main components:

• Implant Fixture: This is a small titanium post that is surgically inserted into the jawbone. Titanium is commonly used because it has the unique ability to fuse with the bone through a process called osseointegration, providing a strong and durable foundation.
• Abutment: Once the implant fixture has integrated with the jawbone, a connector called the abutment is attached to the implant. The abutment protrudes above the gumline and serves as a connection point for the replacement tooth or teeth.
• Prosthetic Tooth: The prosthetic tooth, also known as a crown, is the visible part of the dental implant. It is custom-made to match the color, shape, and size of the natural teeth, ensuring a seamless and natural appearance.

Dental implants offer several benefits, including improved functionality, stability, and aesthetics. They also help prevent bone loss in the jaw, which can occur when natural teeth are missing. While the process of getting dental implants typically involves multiple stages and may take several months, the result is a strong and permanent solution that closely mimics the look and function of natural teeth.

Tooth Extraction

Tooth extraction is a dental procedure in which a tooth is removed from its socket in the jawbone. Dentists typically recommend tooth extraction when a tooth is severely damaged, decayed, infected, or poses a risk to the overall oral health of the patient. There are two main types of tooth extractions:

Simple Extraction

This procedure is performed on a tooth that is visible in the mouth. The dentist uses specialized instruments to loosen and remove the tooth from its socket. Simple extractions are common for teeth that are fully erupted and have a single root.

Surgical Extraction

Surgical extractions are more complex and involve the removal of a tooth that may be broken, impacted (not fully erupted), or requires more intricate techniques. In surgical extractions, the dentist may need to make a small incision in the gum tissue to access the tooth, and in some cases, the tooth may need to be sectioned into smaller pieces for easier removal.

Tooth extraction is often considered when:

• A tooth is extensively decayed or damaged beyond repair.
• There is severe infection or gum disease affecting the tooth.
• Wisdom teeth (third molars) are impacted or causing issues.
• Overcrowding of teeth requires extraction for orthodontic treatment.
• Trauma or injury has resulted in a fractured or broken tooth.

After a tooth extraction, it is crucial to follow post-operative care instructions provided by the dentist to promote proper healing and minimize the risk of complications. Depending on the specific case, the extracted tooth may be replaced with a dental implant, bridge, or other prosthetic options to restore function and aesthetics.