Things That Can Be Used To Help Prevent Tooth Decay
Posted on: 22 November 2016
Share
If you are looking for ways to protect your teeth from damage, there are multiple effective options from which to choose. Some can be performed in your dentist's office, and others can be applied at home. Here are a few things that can be used to lessen your chance of tooth decay:
Fluoride Treatments
Fluoride treatments are usually performed at a family dentist office. Although fluoride is present in toothpaste and most tap water, the concentration is usually not high enough to have the same impact as a professional fluoride treatment from your dentist.
During a fluoride treatment, your dentist coats your teeth with a fluoride solution. The product is allowed to remain on the teeth for the allotted time and then it's removed. You can expect the procedure to be painless, but it can significantly strengthen your teeth against acid damage.
When you eat, the bacteria in your mouth also feed. The microbes digest the simple carbohydrates and release acid as a digestive my product. This acid from the oral bacteria dissolves tooth enamel to promote tooth decay.
When fluoride is applied to your teeth, it helps attract enamel minerals, such as phosphorus and calcium, back to the tooth surface. Subsequently, it combines with the minerals and forms a new tooth material that is able to resist the effects of acid more readily than your original tooth enamel.
Sealants
Dental sealants are resin coatings that are applied to the teeth. Since resin is a type of plastic, a barrier is formed between your teeth and elements within your mouth, such as acid, that can cause decay.
Your dentist will typically apply dental sealants to the grooved chewing surfaces of your back teeth. Once the sealants are applied, they quickly harden into place and last for years. An application of sealants is not uncomfortable and can be performed within a few minutes.
Gum with Xylitol or Cinnamon
Gum that contains xylitol or cinnamon can help kill oral bacteria in your mouth that would normally produce decay-causing acid. Xylitol is a natural sweetener that has antimicrobial characteristics. Cinnamon includes natural cinnamaldehydes that are antibacterial.
For best results, be sure to chew the gum after all meals and snacks. In addition to the antimicrobial properties, the stickiness of the gums helps pull leftover food from your teeth.
To learn about more ways to protect your teeth from decay, schedule a consultation with your family dentist.