Got cavities?
We use the CariFree System by Oral BioTech, which helps us to better anticipate your likelihood of getting cavities. We can then make preventive recommendations including proper brushing and flossing, dietary counseling, and use of different CariFree products in order to help lower your risk of tooth decay. We hope to ensure a longer life for the dental work you have already invested in and may opt for in the future. All aspects and resources must be investigated and possibly changed to be able to decrease these risks. See the recommended CariFree product guide below, call us and visit carifree.com for more information:
“I get cavities because I just have soft teeth.”
False. Cavities are caused by having high levels of acid-producing (bad) bacteria and low levels of good bacteria, along with low pH (high acid) in the mouth. When the pH in your mouth goes below 5.5 and stays there for prolonged periods of time, enamel begins to soften and erode. You may be more susceptible to cavities but usually not due to weak or soft enamel; it’s more likely due to your mouth being too acidic for a long period of time.
“Sugar is the cause of cavities.”
True AND False. Everybody has a thin layer of bacteria on their teeth called biofilm. These bacteria are affected by the acidic pH levels in your mouth. When the pH drops (acidity increases), cavity-causing bacteria take over and good bacteria die. Tooth decay starts once the cavity-causing bacteria are in control of the biofilm and produces more acid. However, sugar just feeds bacteria — especially the cavity-causing, acid-producing bacteria.
“Fillings will stop cavities.”
False. When a cavity has already caused significant damage, it needs to be removed and the tooth restored by fillings or crowns. However, simply fixing a tooth does not cure the biofilm infection and eliminate the chance of future cavities occurring. Only changing habits and medical treatment can reduce bad bacteria that cause cavities and reduce future risks.
“Fluoride stops decay.”
False. Studies have shown that the use of fluoride does not stop tooth decay in adults. Fluoride does help in managing decay by making enamel more resistant to acidic environments.
“You can’t catch a cavity from someone else.”
False. We are not born with the bacteria that cause cavities. However, as infants, we can be infected by parents and caregivers. This is referred to as “vertical transmission.” Vertical transmission occurs when milk or food is tested or pacifiers are cleaned in the parents’ mouth, transmitting the caries infection.
“Just brushing and flossing will prevent cavities.”
False. Brushing and flossing alone will not kill the bacteria that are the true cause of decay. Dental caries is a biofilm (bacterial) infection. Currently, there are 23 identified types of bacteria in biofilm that produce the acids responsible for causing cavities. Dietary habits, bacteria levels, acidity, and family history also are factors that must be addressed.
What is it?
Due to new research on cavities and what causes them, we know everyone is at risk of developing decay at some point in their lifetime. Caries risk assessment is a diagnostic method used to identify issues BEFORE irreversible damage has occurred. Essentially, it is an assessment of the balance between risk factors for the disease and protective factors that keep you healthy!
Why should I care?
Based on your risk factors for the disease, your dental professional can tell you your likelihood of experiencing new cavities in the next 12 months. Below is a chart that shows the risk of forming new cavities based on your level of risk.
Use daily after brushing and flossing. Shake each bottle before use. Using the measuring cup, combine 5 mL of component A with 5 mL of component B (10 mL total). Vigorously swish the combined 10 mL of rinse between teeth for one minute, and then spit out. Do not swallow the rinse. Instruct children less than 12 years of age in good rinsing habits (to minimize swallowing). Supervise children as necessary until capable of using without supervision. Do not dilute. Store below 30 degrees C (86 degrees F). Do not rinse with component A or component B alone.
MINT
Rinse A
Menthol, Natural Flavors, Polysorbate 20, Sodium Benzoate, Water, Xylitol
Rinse B
Water, Sodium Hydroxide, Sodium Hypochlorite
Supervise children’s use. If more than used for rinsing is accidentally swallowed, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center right away. If you experience any unusual symptoms, stop use and contact our office at 553-0911
Each box contains one 2 fl oz (60mL) tube. Approved size for airline travel! Approximately one month of use (when used twice daily). Do not eat or drink anything for 30 minutes after use. Brush before bedtime, spit out excess but do not rinse.
MINT
Active Ingredient: Sodium Fluoride, 1.1% (w/w)
Other Ingredients: Glycerin, Hydroxyapatite, Hydrogenated Starch Hydrolysate (HSH), Hydroxyethyl Cellulose, Menthol, Polysorbate 20, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate, Sodium Bicarbonate, Sodium Hydroxide, Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, Spearmint Oil, Water, Xylitol
Always replace cap after use. Supervise children’s use for proper oral hygiene care. In case of contact with eyes, flush with water and seek medical attention if necessary. In case of spillage on clothes, wash off with water. If any unusual symptoms occur, contact our office at 553-0911.
Swish with 10 ml two times daily after brushing and flossing, spit out, do not swallow. Do not eat, drink, or rinse for 30 minutes after use. 16 fl oz bottle (473 mL), 48 doses, approximately one month of use (when used twice daily)
MINT
Active Ingredient: Sodium Fluoride 0.05%
Inactive Ingredients: Menthol, Natural Flavors, Polysorbate 20, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate, Sodium Bicarbonate, Water, Xylitol
Supervise children’s use. If more than used for rinsing is accidentally swallowed, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center right away. If you experience any unusual symptoms, stop use and contact our office at 553-0911.
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