Cavity prevention for adults

Patients who have been diagnosed with decay during the last 24 months are considered high risk for caries development. They are very likely to develop recurrent decay in the same location or at a new site because the bacterial infection is ongoing. Simply removing decay and placing a restoration is not enough; the oral cavity must achieve a bacterial balance in order to reduce the bacterial attack.

For these patients, after a restoration of any kind has been placed due to caries activity, a fluoride varnish (varnish made with fluoride, a mineral that strengthens the outer enamel coating on teeth) treatment should be performed at subsequent recall visits until the patient has had two caries-free years. In addition to professionally applied fluoride, the use of remineralization products, home fluoride, xylitol gum, and pH stabilization may be indicated. We recommend that you receive fluoride varnish treatments at our clinic to help prevent tooth decay. This can be done 2 to 4 times per year. The number of treatments depend on on the possibility of you getting a cavity.

Keep in mind that fluoride varnish treatments cannot completely prevent cavities. Fluoride varnish is a dental treatment that helps prevent tooth decay, slow it down, or stop it from getting worse thereby preventing tooth decay. When you also brush your teeth using the right amount of toothpaste with fluoride, flossing regularly, getting regular dental care, and eating a healthy diet is essential in preventing tooth decay.