Monday, January 21, 2008

A new world of prevention

Would it make sense to you if I, as your dental spiritual advisor (as if there were such a thing) , suggested that we could tailor a preventive oral health home care regimen to specifically fit your needs. It would be based on a quick evaluation of your susceptibility to dental disease. For example, if you were 30 years old, have never had a cavity, and your gums were 100% healthy, I might suggest brushing 2x per day and flossing one time per day and that is all. It might even be reasonable to have a check up twice per year and x rays every 1.5 years. However, if you were 25 years old, have had numerous fillings and have a new cavity—we might suggest xrays 2x per year, fluoride varnish 2-3 times per year, use of an electric toothbrush, daily rinsing with Crest pro – health mouthrinse, and daily flossing. Use of a high fluoride toothpaste like prevident might also be recommended.

These types of analyses and recommendations are becoming common in the dental profession. It is part of a movement toward “evidence based” dentistry and customized preventive regimens to help adults and children prevent the onset and perpetuation of dental disease – decay and periodontal disease.

Please ask me about an appropriate personalized preventive program for you , your friends and family members.

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