Dental x-rays are an aid in detecting dental problems that are not visible during a clinical exam. They pose a far smaller risk than many undetected and untreated dental problems. Dental x-rays are extremely valuable for helping to detect oral diseases of the teeth and surrounding tissues. An x-ray exam may reveal small cavities that can't be seen by a visual exam, infections in the bone, abscesses, cysts, developmental abnormalities such as extra or impacted teeth and some types of tumors. Just because such diseases, including early tooth decay, can't be seen by a visual exam does not mean that treatment isn't required. Yes. Numerous precautions and advances in x-ray equipment help protect patients from receiving unnecessary radiation. The amount of radiation received from a dental x-ray exam is extremely small compared to other naturally occurring sources of radiation, including minerals in the soil, radon and cosmic radiation from outer space.

 

	A sealant is a clear shaded plastic material that is applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth (premolars and molars), where decay occurs most often. The sealant acts as a barrier, protecting the decay-prone areas of the teeth from plaque and acid.
	When teeth are developing, depressions and grooves form in the chewing surfaces of the enamel. These features are called pits and fissures. They are impossible to keep clean, because the bristles of a toothbrush cannot reach into them. By forming a think covering over the pits and fissures, sealants keep out plaque and food, and thus decrease the risk of decay. Although children receive significant benefits from sealants, adults can also be at risk for pit and fissure decay and thus be candidates for sealants. Each tooth takes only a few minutes to seal and no anesthetic is necessary. First, the teeth that will be sealed are cleaned. The chewing surfaces are then etched (roughened) with a weak acidic solution to help the sealant adhere to the teeth. Finally, the sealant is brushed on the tooth enamel and allowed to harden. Some sealants need a special curing light to help them harden, others do not. When the sealant is applied, finger-like strands penetrate the pits and fissures of the tooth enamel. Although the sealant cannot be seen with the naked eye, the protective effect of these strands continues. As a result, it may be several years before another application of sealant is needed. Sealants will be checked during regular visits to determine if reapplication is necessary. The American Dental Association recognizes that sealants can play an important role in the prevention of tooth decay. When properly applied and maintained, they can successfully protect the chewing surfaces of teeth from decay.

 

Following is a list of indicators for fluoride use. For each indicator present in a patient, there is an increased benefit in having a professional fluoride treatment. If many of these items listed apply, speak to the doctors to determine if a fluoride treatment is right for you!
	No fluoride in your drinking water as a child No fluoride in your drinking water now Drink filtered or bottled water Have receding gums or history of gum disease Have multiple fillings and/or crowns Strong family history of dental decay Mouth feels dry; or take medications that cause dry mouth; or breathe through mouth Currently wear orthodontic braces Have sensitivity to hot, cold or touch Use home whitening products Limited hand dexterity Use of chewing gum, lozenges or hard candy with sugar between meals; or strong breath mints Visit dental office irregularly Currently undergoing (or history of) chemotherapy or radiation therapy Suffer from acid reflux Teeth that just don't feel clean; trap food Dental work done in the past year Snack frequently between meals Sip on beverages throughout the day (other than water) Use tobacco products of any type Grind teeth frequently Brush less than 2 times per day Floss less than once per day
	Fluoride is a mineral that is found naturally in many things we eat or drink. It is nature's way of helping prevent cavities. Professional strength (in-office fluorides) and low strength (home fluorides) each play important roles in helping to keep your teeth for life. In the lifelong fight against cavities, both adults and children benefit from in-office treatment and home fluorides. Professional in-office fluoride products are highly concentrated and can only be applied by a dental professional. Professional in-office fluorides make teeth stronger... and even heal weakened areas. Over time, the high level of fluoride provided by the in-office fluoride treatment will gradually be released from the teeth. This is where low strength, home fluorides such as toothpastes and mouth rinses play a valuable role. These home fluorides are an important and valuable complement to the office treatment by replenishing and maintaining a beneficial level of fluoride in the teeth. Think of office fluoride treatments and home fluorides as your "1-2 Punch" in the lifelong fight against cavities.