No More Dental Cavities!

Controlling Caries in Lyndhurst

Dental caries (cavity or tooth decay) is one of the most common diseases throughout the world. It is a disease where specific types of acid-producing bacteria, in the presence of fermentable carbohydrates, such as sugar, cause damage to tooth structure.

The purpose of our caries control protocol is to identify and treat those that are at a high risk for dental caries. Many people have dental caries and are not aware of it. It is not until the lesion is deeper into the tooth, that symptoms are reported. As the carious lesion gets closer to the nerve of the tooth, the pain worsens with exposure to heat, cold or sweets.

The diagnosis of dental caries is accomplished through inspection of the visible tooth surfaces using a light source, a dental mirror and explorer, dental x-rays and in some cases the diagnodent (a laser used to quantitatively measure areas of demineralized tooth structure).

Cavities need to be stopped by dental treatment to prevent further destruction of teeth.

The best way to deal with dental caries is to prevent them in the first place and stop their progression through proper oral hygiene and dietary modifications. Proper brushing and flossing and sometimes other hygiene adjuncts is the most effective way of preventing the formation of plaque (colonies of bacteria sticking to the tooth surface). The bacteria in the mouth break down sugars and produce acids in the mouth that demineralize (soften) tooth structure.

Minimizing snacking is recommended to prevent a continual supply of sugar for the acid-producing bacteria. Chewy and sticky foods adhere to teeth longer and are therefore more likely to cause dental caries. Eating sweets or sugar/acidic drinks are best had at meal times. In between meals, it is important for the saliva, which contains natural buffers, to prevent the lowering of the pH in the mouth and prevent favorable conditions for the acid-producing bacteria to flourish. Chewing gums containing xylitol only are recommended to stimulate saliva flow. Studies have shown that the caries causing bacteria is unable to utilize xylitol like other sugars.

If you wish more information regarding Caries Control or wish to find out how our highly trained staff might assist you please call us to schedule an evaluation and consultation. 440-461-8200. You may also email us though the “contact us” page on this website.