How to Prevent a Tooth Filling Before it Starts
Most people learn the importance of good dental habits early on in life, usually soon after learning how to walk and talk. Brushing teeth every morning (and hopefully every night) is a ritualistic habit shared by almost everyone.
In the past, poor oral health was common and an almost expected sign of aging. An evolving understanding of science combined with patient education campaigns has brought about a dramatic change in our overall health.
Advanced dentistry technology gives individuals and families many choices, as it pertains to treatment options. Cosmetic restoration options, such as white fillings or porcelain crowns, produce results that repair or improve one’s oral appearance, without compromising their natural smile.
Here’s One of Thousands of Cavities Dr. Hauser has Replaced
with a White Filling to Match the Other Teeth Around it!
Replaced Amalgam with White Filling to Match Surrounding Teeth Color Perfectly
Water Treatment Improves Dental Health
Since the 1940s, the United States has placed fluoride in drinking water to promote enamel strength and reduce the incidence of tooth decay. A significant decrease in serious mouth infections has been observed since then.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) hails water fluoridation as one of the greatest achievements in public health service, since its access includes most people who consume public drinking water.
U.S. Statistics on Dental Health
- 25% of children, 5 and under, have decay
- 50% of kids, ages 12-15, also experience decay
- 25% of Americans have an untreated cavity (over 78 million people)
Recent statistics released by the CDC reported that over 204 million people in the United States receive fluoridated treatments in their public water supplies. Studies have shown this to be an effective solution, which has helped decrease the chance of decay by up to 40%
Still, decay remains an issue affecting 50% of all children by the age of 11. By the age of 17, more than 80% of kids have one or more dental caries (cavities) that requires a tooth filling repair
What Causes Caries in Children and Adults?
There are many contributing reasons for such a high incidence of teeth cavities. Some of the most common reasons include:
Dietary habits – Eating foods containing a high sugar or acid content erodes the enamel. Also, food stuck in between the teeth and not removed can rot and cause damage.
Poor oral hygiene – Ineffective brushing habits is one of the leading causes for oral issues. When cleaning the mouth, you need to ensure removal of all food and bacteria from the mouth. Failure to do so results in a buildup of harmful plaque and tartar that cause many mouth cavity issues.
Not enough fluoride – Although readily available in our drinking water, many people choose bottled drinking water and do not get enough fluoridation from other sources.
There are several different treatment options for caries, if needed. Depending on the extent of decay, patients have options ranging from a tooth filling to a porcelain crown.
Tips for Cavity Prevention
Many mouth infections can be prevented by maintaining excellent cleaning habits. It’s never too late to start, since early stage infections are completely reversible.
Brush Twice a Day
Dentists recommend everyone clean their teeth twice a day, minimum. You should spend at least two minutes each time you brush, making sure that all surface areas are covered. Electric toothbrushes often have more cleaning power than manual ones.
Make Flossing a Daily Habit
Flossing is an extremely important habit to adopt. No matter how effective our brushing habits are, there are many hard-to-reach nooks and crevices in the mouth. Dental floss gets in those places to help ensure infectious causing microorganisms are removed.
Visit Your Dentist Regularly
Problems in the mouth sometimes go undetected, but still need to be addressed to prevent continued damage. Dr. Hauser and his expert staff use special equipment and x-rays to help uncover any issues. Visit us for a check-up exam and professional cleaning and polishing to bring you and your family members a healthier, happier smile.
Lakefront Family Dentistry looks forward to becoming your partner in helping maintain excellent oral health. Please call (951) 244-9495 and schedule an appointment to meet with Dr. Hauser and talk with him about white fillings as an option, or make an appointment online with us today!
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We Would Love to Have You as Part of Our Family.
Proudly Serving: Canyon Lake, Corona, Lake Elsinore, Menifee, Murrieta, Sun City, Temecula, Wildomar, and Riverside County, CA
