Since your gums are numbed with the commonly used anesthetic, Lidocaine before starting the procedure, you shouldn't feel any pain while getting your tooth filled. After the procedure is completed, the anesthetic will wear off over time, and you might feel a slight tingling in your mouth. Another common side effect is tooth sensitivity; this should fade after a few days. If necessary, your family dentist might suggest minor painkillers to ease the pain.

The American Dental Association recommends everyone visit the dentist for teeth cleaning at least twice a year when teeth and gums are healthy. Depending on the condition of your teeth or gums, you might have to visit your family dentist more frequently. If you are seeing an orthodontist, you should have regular visits every 4 to 6 weeks to ensure everything is progressing correctly.

After having your wisdom teeth removed, it could take up to two weeks to fully recover. The worst side effect will most likely be a swollen mouth and cheek, but this will most likely subside within a couple of days. To help the pain and swelling, gently press a cold cloth against your face. If necessary, your family dentist might offer you painkillers, such as paracetamol or ibuprofen. After the procedure, be sure to avoid rinsing, spitting, hot drinks, or anything that would dislocate the blood clots in the empty tooth socket.

A root canal procedure is a treatment to replace the infected pulp in a root canal with endodontic treatment. Endodontic treatment is any procedure that happens within the tooth. The inside of your tooth holds a pulp that contains blood vessels, nerves, and connected tissue. If the pulp is infected, a root canal is needed.

The frequency of getting your teeth X-rayed depends on the condition of your teeth and your medical and dental history. Getting your teeth X-rayed allows your family dentist to find and treat dental problems in their early development. Dental X-rays allow the dentist to see areas of tooth decay, decay beneath fillings, bone loss, changes in the bone, and reveal an infection at the root of the tooth.