Prevention for patients with Low Decay Risk
You are at low risk for decay if:
- You had no cavities in the last 24 months
- You have no enamel demineralization (white, chalky spots on teeth)
- No visible plaque
- No gingivitis
- No disease promoting factors (as per table)
Home Care
Dietary Tips
- Brush twice daily - use a soft toothbrush with an over-the-counter fluoride-containing toothpaste
- Consider using a Power-assisted toothbrush– See The Benefits of Electric Toothbrush vs. Manual
- Floss daily to clean between teeth- if you cannot floss use a Gum Soft-Pick instead
- Instructions on how : CDA brushing and Flossing
Dietary Tips
- Limit between-meal sweet snacks and sugary drinks. It's the duration of sugar exposure to your teeth that matters, not the quantity consumed.
- Avoid acidic foods and beverages between meals.
- End your breakfast, lunch, or dinner with cheese, nuts, seeds, or peanut butter to reduce mouth acidity.
- Do not brush your teeth immediately after eating. Brushing while acid is present can wear down tooth enamel. Waiting an hour allows saliva to neutralize the acid, making it safe to brush.
- To neutralize acids post-meal, rinse with a mixture of 1 tsp baking soda in a cup of water.
- Consider chewing xylitol-containing gum after eating.
- Please keep regular preventive maintenance visits at 6 to 12 month intervals:
- Get new bitewing radiographs (X-rays) about every 24-36 months to check for cavities.
- Get a fluoride varnish treatment after your teeth cleanings.
- Complete any necessary restorative dental work, such as fillings or crowns.
- If suitable, have sealants placed on the chewing surfaces of your molars to prevent bacterial infection and dental decay.
- If you think you grind and clench, consider a Bruxism Splint
- If you play contact sports protect your teeth with a sports guard
