After your initial exam, you will be assigned to a certain level of risk for your likelihood of developing new cavities in the future. The levels will determine your individualized x-ray frequencies, recommended preventive treatments, and the protocols you need to do at home to lower your risk. You will stay at your assigned level for 2 years and will be re-evaluated again for possible increase or decrease of risk level.
Low Risk
- Practice good oral hygiene techniques at home. This includes brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and optional use of mouthwash.
- Regular toothpaste is sufficient.
- Your individualized x-ray frequency: 12-18 months
Moderate Risk
- Practice good oral hygiene techniques at home. This includes brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and use of fluoride mouthwash such as Act mouthwash with fluoride daily.
- Regular toothpaste is sufficient.
- Optional recommendation of Fluoride Varnish.
- Your individualized x-ray frequency: 6-12 months
High Risk
- Practice good oral hygiene techniques at home. This includes brushing twice a day, flossing at least daily, and use of fluoride mouthwash such as Act mouthwash with fluoride twice a day.
- Prescription of Prevident 5000 plus Toothpaste. (it’s a stronger toothpaste with higher concentration of fluoride)
- Strong recommendation of Fluoride Varnish.
- Optional use of MI Paste. This product has calcium and phosphate, which are the building blocks of teeth. Using this product has shown to remineralize teeth and make them stronger.
- Chew sugar free xylitol gum up to 4 times daily. Xylitol is a sugar substitute that cannot be used by bacteria. Xylitol has shown to prevent bacteria from adhering to teeth.
- Reduce overall intake of sugar and the frequency of sugar exposure. Avoid sodas, sports drinks, candies, etc.
- Consideration of sealants, if qualified.
- Your Individualized x-ray frequency: 6 months
The caries prevention protocols are designed to lower your risk of getting a cavity. The protocols do not make you immune to cavities, or tooth decay, and do not cure existing cavities that are already present.