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Tooth Decay & Fluoride
Dental Caries (tooth decay) is the most common disease known to mankind.
This disease is caused by dental plaque; Thin, sticky deposits of bacteria. When sugar or starch is
eaten the bacteria break the surface down and produce acids that attack the tooth enamel. If it is
allowed to continue, over time the enamel breaks down, which results in a cavity.
Fluoride is a negative ion that helps prevent tooth decay. When applied to
the surface of a tooth it makes the crystals that make up the enamel more dense and concentrated. The
more dense or hard the enamel is the harder it becomes for the bacterial acids to cause a cavity.
Enamel is applied to the teeth by rinsing with fluoride mouthwashes, or brushing with toothpaste.
In our dental clinic we apply a strong concentration fluoride to patients at their regular checkups
if indicated. Some patients need fluoride more than twice a year, however most of our patients need
treatment twice a year or less.
"Dental Caries is a communicable disease.
Bacteria is usually passed from parent to child."
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