Two Great Ways to Lower the Risk of Cavities

Some of the main reasons that children and adults get cavities include plaque, bacteria, and food particles. These usually cause demineralization of the teeth.[3]

Sealants and fluoride treatments are two important cavity prevention products that can help lower the risk of cavities. Each treatment is slightly different, but both can be very effective at preventing cavities by protecting teeth from food and plaque. You can lower your cavity risk by visiting with your dentist regularly.

Sealants

Teeth sealants are protective coatings that are applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth (the molars) to help prevent tooth decay from plaque and food.[1] They are smooth, glossy, and white in color and are often very similar to the color of the teeth. Sealants are usually applied by a dentist or dental hygienist on permanent teeth for patients at the ages of 6 and 12. If you’re unsure about whether you should be seeing a dentist for sealants, Brevard Health Alliance can help.

Fluoride Treatments

Fluoride treatments are applied directly to the teeth. These treatments range from varnishes, gels, foams, and rinses. Some of the ways that fluoride treatments work include strengthening the enamel, strengthening the structure of the tooth, and reducing acid erosion of enamel.[2] This means fluoride treatments are great for cavity prevention.

It is important to have sealants and fluoride treatments applied to teeth at an early age. This is because teeth are at their most vulnerable to tooth decay and cavities when they are young. A dentist can help you decide if your child should have either of these treatments.

Taking care of your teeth isn’t hard. It just takes time. Two things that can help prevent your teeth from cavities are fluoride treatments and sealants. Both are very beneficial to the longevity of your teeth. Take care of your dental health today by calling Brevard Health Alliance.

References:

[1] https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/dental-sealants

[2] https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/fluoride-treatment

[3] https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/cavities/symptoms-causes/syc-20352892