Tooth decay or "The Silent Epidemic" as it's been called for years has plagued our children and young teens since the beginning of time.
It is less prevalent in adults, but depending on a person's home care and oral hygiene regime, it's still seen on a daily basis in all ages. Tooth decay is found in the Western world, where it is presumed to be because of careless dietary habits and poor oral hygiene.
So what's so silent about this epidemic? When a child looks at you and gives you their biggest grin, there's nothing silent about an obvious mouth full of decay that is screaming out to you, "Help!" You're probably thinking, "That poor child, her mother should be turned in for neglect." How about the teen-ager that gives you the same decay-filled smile? You wonder why his mother doesn't take him to see a dentist. We are given one set of primary and one set of permanent teeth. There are no second chances, but there are treatments and choices available to all individuals.
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Early intervention, dental radiographs, and sealants help prevent tooth decay
The ADA suggests that children should start seeing the dentist as early as 6 months of age or after their first tooth is present. They should have regular X-rays starting when their permanent teeth erupt, somewhere between the ages of 6 and 8. Radiographs look not only for dental decay, but also reveal the probable eruption pattern of the permanent teeth. They are most notably used to see interproximal or in between teeth where cavities could be concealed from clinical detection. Diagnosing decay on the occlusal or biting surface of teeth is more effectively detected clinically because the dentist can see or feel a cavity using special instruments in these areas. Sealants are used in the pits and fissures of teeth to protect them from getting cavities. A sealant acts as a physical barrier to prevent oral bacteria from collecting within the pit or fissure and creating the acid environment needed to initiate dental caries. Young patients usually have them applied to their first and
second molars of their permanent teeth. Some insurance companies cover this treatment as preventative, while others don't deem it necessary. Keep in mind the cost of one cavity on a permanent tooth nearly equals the cost of four sealants!
The magic of fluoride
Fluoride is recommended for young patients, as well as older ones. Fluoride can be found in most toothpaste on the market, as well as some mouthwashes, food, such as tuna, and tap water. One can even buy fluoridated bottled water now. If well water is the main water source, it may naturally contain fluoride, so the content should be checked by the Health Department in your area for optimal levels. Your child also receives a professional fluoride treatment at his six month check-up at the dentist until about age 14. Fluoride is essential to the formation of sound teeth and bones, as are calcium, phosphorus and other elements obtained from food and water.
Brushing technique
Good oral hygiene is fundamental for strong, healthy teeth. The earliest record of the "chewstick," considered the primitive toothbrush, dates back to 1600 B.C. The first brush was believed to be made of hog's bristles, while nylon came into use during World War II. Many current toothbrushes are made of synthetic material, and powered brushes were not actively promoted until the 1960s.
A soft-bristled brush should always be used, so as to not abrade the gums. Any system or sequence can be used while brushing. Because of individual variations, the emphasis should be placed on complete plaque removal, rather than type of cleaning. Two cleanings per day to prevent bacterial plaque and halitosis should be recommended and a clean mouth before going to sleep is encouraged.
Try this excellent brushing technique and share it with your children to improve the oral health of the entire family. Put toothpaste on the toothbrush and brush your teeth. Rinse the toothbrush and continue your tooth brushing regime, making sure not to forget your tongue. Do not rinse the toothpaste out of your mouth! By skipping this final step, fluoride residue is left in the mouth, coating the teeth with a protective layer, which continues to fight back cavities for hours to come. A proper tooth brushing method combined with regular dental visits and the use of hygiene products will ensure less dental decay in the future.
The amazing miracle of xylitol and how it works
Xylitol is a white, crystalline substance that looks and tastes like sugar. It is not a strange or artificial material but part of our everyday metabolism. Our bodies produce up to 15 grams of xylitol from other foods through energy pathways. It is widely distributed throughout nature in small amounts and has been used in foods since the 1960s. Some of the best sources are fruits, berries, hardwoods and corn cobs. In fact, one cup of raspberries contains about one gram of xylitol.
More than 25 years of testing in widely different conditions confirms that xylitol is the best sweetener for teeth. Xylitol use is proven to reduce tooth decay, along with arrest and even some reversal of existing dental caries. Xylitol provides additional protection that enhances all existing prevention methods. Its effect is longlasting and possibly permanent with proven lower decay rates in subjects tested.
Dental decay is produced when bacteria from food combines with Strep Mutans, a bacterium already in our mouths. The combination breaks down the enamel on our teeth and causes carious lesions or cavities. We are not born with this bacterium; it is typically transmitted from caregiver to infant (usually an innocent kiss from mother to baby).
Xylitol has just recently been discovered to provide extraordinary benefits in helping to fight and decrease this bacterium, which causes tooth decay. Instead of killing the bad bacteria, xylitol encourages and produces good bacteria, which actually help fight decay. The bad bacteria may continue to exist in the mouth but become harmless because of the chemical change that xylitol causes.
Chewing gum containing xylitol decreases the harmful bacterial count in the primary caregiver, which can be advantageous for the child.
Studies have shown that if a mother uses xylitol products a few months before becoming pregnant, her levels of Strep Mutans can be diminished to a non-detrimental level. As a result, by the time the child's first tooth erupts, their bacteria will be less harmful to their own teeth. No kidding!
If used only occasionally or even as often as once a day, xylitol may NOT be effective, regardless of the amount. Use xylitol at least three, and preferably five, times every day. Studies show that 4-12 grams of xylitol per day are very effective. However, it is unnecessary to use more than 15 grams per day to attain dental benefits. Use immediately after eating and clearing the mouth by swishing water, if possible. Between meals, replace ordinary chewing gum, breath mints, or breath spray with comparable xylitol products.
One can implement a xylitol program anywhere, anytime. It fits right in with the most frantic schedules and is safe for everyone. Xylitol can be found in Orbit and Carefree Koolers gum, Starbuck's mints and Rembrandt toothpaste.
Make oral health a priority in your family. Good oral health practices should begin with pregnancy, after delivery and continue throughout adult life.
