Tooth decay is the most wide-spread preventable disease, and it is common among adults as well as children. Dental decay affects more than 25% of two to five year olds and more than 50% of 12 to 15 year-olds in the United States.
Virtually everyone knows that brushing their teeth twice a day and flossing their teeth every day can help prevent tooth decay and maintain a beautiful smile, but Dr. Jamie Sands has some additional recommendations that will help stave off cavities. With every patient, she discusses their risk for tooth decay as well as the ways they can prevent dental decay in the future.
MI Paste™
Since many patients have sensitive teeth or gums, Dr. Jamie Sands recommends MI Paste™. MI Paste™ is not toothpaste but a crème that releases minerals such as calcium and phosphate into the oral cavity to nourish the tooth’s surface. Dr. Jamie Sands performs in-office MI Paste™ treatments for her patients and can prescribe this product for at-home use, if necessary. The crème is applied to the teeth and left for about 15 minutes or used overnight to help reverse damage.
CariFree®
Dr. Jamie Sands also recommends CariFree® products at her practice, which is a line of products that incorporates all the latest science-based treatment methods regarding fluoride, xylitol, and pH neutralization. Products include multi-flavored rinses, gels, gum and even suckers that promote oral health by preventing tooth decay.
Xylitol-Infused Gum
In a previous post, we talked about the benefits of chewing gum, but all of those benefits are null and void if the gum contains sugar. Dr. Jamie Sands recommends xylitol-infused gum. Not only is xylitol-infused gum sugar-free, but it is also clinically proven to fight plaque. Xylitol is a natural sweetener that metabolizes differently than sugar. It helps to keep a neutral pH level in the mouth as it prevents bacteria from sticking to the teeth. The acid that would normally develop as a result of sugar and low pH in the mouth does not have a chance to form after chewing xylitol. As a result, the amount of plaque decreases – right along with the likelihood of developing tooth decay.
To learn more about how you can prevent tooth decay or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Jamie Sands, please call (818) 306-5153 or fill out our online contact form.