Tooth decay is a dental concern that can happen to people of all ages. Cavities, or dental caries, occur when acid-producing bacteria erode enamel on teeth. Bacteria multiply and feed off of sugary residue left on teeth. When tooth decay is allowed to develop, it creates tiny openings or holes in teeth.
Cavities may lead to compromised oral health, including gum loss, tooth loss, gum recession, and inflammation. Patients with serious tooth decay are also at a higher risk of developing heart disease.
Cleaning Cavity Treatments
Oral Hygiene
The first preventative measure for cavities may be obvious, but it’s just as important as other measures. Proper oral hygiene is your first defense against tooth decay. To keep your teeth clean, brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes. You should also floss each time you brush your teeth to remove plaque and tartar from between teeth. Brushes are not able to reach where cavities may develop between teeth. If you feel that your teeth are more prone to cavities, brush and floss after every meal. Brushing and flossing your teeth removes cavity-causing buildup and improves your overall oral health.
Teeth Cleanings
Routine dental appointments and biannual dental exams ensure that any problems are diagnosed and treated early. Dr. Brenda Paulen & Associates provide patients with personalized care in routine teeth cleanings, removing plaque and tartar buildup from teeth to fight cavities and other dental concerns.
Preventative Treatment
Patients have many options for cavity treatment at Proud Smiles.
Fluoride Varnish
After a routine dental cleaning, fluoride is painted onto the surface of teeth to help prevent decay. The fluoride varnish sticks to teeth for several hours, fighting bacteria from forming and multiplying. The varnish is quickly and easily applied for effective protection against cavities.
Prescription Fluoride Toothpaste
Clinpro 5000 is a toothpaste for patients who may be prone to tooth decay. This toothpaste is a stronger toothpaste that fights against tooth decay and makes sure that bacteria does not multiply.
Fluoride Gel Trays
Fluoride gel trays help patients with severe dry mouth. Bacteria can easily multiply with a lack of saliva, so these gel trays provides patients with cavity-fighting fluoride.
Icon
Icon is a treatment that eliminates white spot lesions that occur in early stages of tooth decay. This treatment can be used in just one visit and is a painless and quick way to prevent cavities.
Sealants
Sealants are applied to crowns, sealing out tooth decay in difficult-to-clean areas of the mouth where bacteria can multiply.
Phocal Fluoride Discs
These discs are placed between teeth to prevent decay. The discs soften and expand, forming a gel seal between teeth.
Schedule an Appointment
If you are concerned about your teeth, contact Dr. Brenda Paulen & Associates. Call us at (404) 418-7734 or schedule an appointment with us online here.