If you can't afford prevention, how can you afford disease? Part 2

The first part of this series discussed why prevention and some general information on gum disease prevention and maintenance.   This second part will talk about teeth and the last segment will discuss Bite and TMJ.

The standards of care for tooth health were always brush and floss.  While this is a good starting point, home care protocols must be customized for each person.  Ultrasonic toothbrushes and water piks have proven to be very effective for many patients. 

As more people are experiencing a dryness in their mouth, usually associated with medication and aging, there is a greater susceptibility to both gum and tooth disease.  The use of intraoral lubricants such as Biotene help. 

High concentration fluoride toothpastes are good for home use.  These are obtained through prescription and are designed for adult use.  Fluoride varnishes are applied in a dental office and are very effective for both children and adults.

When should a tooth be repaired?  When it first shows signs of disease.  When you have the ability to look at dentistry with magnification, we use high power loupes, you get to see problems before they become clinically evident.

The best prevention is addressing the need of dentistry when it first becomes evident.  Watching and waiting allows small problems to become larger problems.

Your teeth are meant to last a lifetime … keep them healthy!