Dr.Girish Hattay and Associates

....your family dentist since 1989

Prevention of Dental Disease

So when was the last time you got your teeth cleaned and checked?

As in everything else, in dental care an ounce of prevention is worth more than a pound of cure. One of the ways of preventing tooth decay is ingesting fluorides by incorporating fluorides in the public drinking water, in a limited amount (not exceeding 1ppm). Fluorides combine with tooth structure and strengthen it.

Fluorides are also applied topically by dentist at recall check-up appointments and are incorporated in tooth pastes and mouth washes. Sealants are already being applied by dentists to children' teeth to prevent decay from forming in deep pit and fissures of permanent teeth.

The most important thing of course is removal of plaque by proper brushing and regular flossing, as this will prevent not just cavities but also gum disease. Brushing should be done properly otherwise it can cause harm like shrinking gums and/or wearing of the outer coating of the tooth leading to sensitivity.

Flossing removes the food stuff and plaque in between teeth that even proper brushing cannot get to. Even children should be encouraged to form the habit of flossing. Disclosing agents can be used to demonstrate presence of plaque in children.

Above all the importance of regular dental check-ups cannot be over emphasized to detect the beginning of potential problems and have it treated in time. Also wearing mouth guards for contact sports will protect teeth from injury.