Preventative Care
Tooth Decay
What causes tooth decay? The combination of oral bacteria, sugary foods, and a susceptible tooth are necessary for tooth decay. A sticky film called plaque that contains bacteria is always forming on your teeth. As the bacteria feed on the sugars in the food you eat, they produce an acid which adheres to the tooth and destroys the tooth’s enamel. Each time the plaque is exposed to sugar, acid can be produced for 20 minutes or more.
How can you prevent dental decay?
Control plaque by brushing and flossing twice daily
Using an over-the-counter fluoride rinse daily
Limiting the number of sugary foods eaten each day
Chew sugar-free gum which contains xylitol
What are some products that can help control tooth decay?
Chewing gum (sugar-free): Spry, Trident, Orbit
Fluoride: ACT mouth rinse (or any Anti-Cavity mouth rinse)
Toothpaste: Sensodyne Pronamel, Colgate Total Enamel Care, Crest Complete Care
Dry Mouth
One of the most common causes of dry mouth is medications that people need to take for other health reasons. Medications that can cause dry mouth include some anti-depressants, anti-histamines, decongestants, and diuretics. In certain cases, the cause of dry mouth can be rooted in malfunctioning salivary glands, as with Sjogren’s Syndrome.
How can dry mouth be managed? The best way is to drink water frequently and/or suck on sugar-free candy throughout the day. Avoid mouth rinses that contain alcohol. Dry mouth promotes plaque formation, so use an over-the-counter fluoride rinse daily.
What are some products that help manage dry mouth?
Oasis
Biotene
ACT Dry Mouth
XyliMelts
Sensitive Teeth
There are many reasons why teeth may be sensitive. One common cause of sensitivity is gum recession. When gums recede, the root of the tooth is exposed. In order to protect the root of the tooth, toothpastes containing potassium nitrate are recommended. Toothpastes such as Sensodyne and Colgate Sensitive Enamel Protect are designed to decrease sensitivity.
Our office also offers Sonicare toothbrushes and replacement heads at a great price for our patients. Please stop by and pick yours up today!
For optimal oral health and your convenience, please refer to the following preventative care websites: