Cavity Prevention

The dental student goes on to explain;

“There are several means of preventing decay in the mouth. The two main preventive agents used are pit and fissure sealants and fluoride. Pit and fissure sealants are usually clear or white and are painted on the occlusal surfaces to block the plaque/biofilm from invading the pits and fissures of the occlusal surfaces and thus causing decay.

Fluoride is another means of preventing decay. Fluoridated water, if ingested during the time that the permanent teeth are forming (prior to eruption), is an excellent means of providing strength to the enamel and making it more resistant to demineralization and decay. Also, swishing with a daily fluoride rinse agent, which contains sodium monofluorophosphate or stannous fluoride, can be very effective in preventing decay. The use of acidulated phosphate, neutral sodium fluoride, and fluoride varnish in the dental office are very effective in combating the initiation of decay.”