The adage holds supreme: prevention is better than cure. The advent of newer materials allowed us to adopt procedures that could bring down the caries index.
Fluoride Programs and In-Clinic Fluoridation
What is it?
Fluoride is a chemical compound that is well known to make the basic structure of “hydroxyapatite” crystals of the enamel stronger by binding and producing “fluorapatite”. The fluorapatite crystals are less likely to be dissolved by the acid that is produced in the mouth by bacteria. Is advised for kids at the ages of 7, 9, 11, and 13 or individuals with a high caries index.
Who needs it?
- Young individuals who have newly erupted permanent teeth and a high caries index
- Individuals with high DMFT
- Individuals with a genetic predisposition for cavities (both parents have had recurring dental problems)
- Individual preference as preventive care
Pit and Fissure Sealants
The teeth are formed by the fusion of developmental lobes.
Where the lobes fuse, there is an area with less mineral matter and more organic matter. The line of fusion can be seen as a natural groove on the teeth. In some cases, these can be prone to decay, so a very low-viscosity resin is applied here and the plane of weakness is sealed. Hence, PIT AND FISSURE SEALANTS.
Capping Hypoplastic Teeth
A period of illness during tooth formation, causing defective mineralisation of teeth. These are observed to be weak, yellow, chalky and powdery from the time they erupt. In order to avoid root canals in young teeth, these can be protected by capping them.
This not only protects the tooth from decay, but also allows for the tooth maturation and healthier core or pulp space of the core.