New Discoveries in Dental Care –
Unlike the majority of the public who erroneously think that tooth decay is caused by consuming too many sweets, scientists recognize that dental decay is caused by a bacterial infection in the biofilm (plaque) on the teeth.  Sugar is indirectly involved in that these acid-producing bacteria LOVE sweets and so the colonies of bacteria multiply tremendously when fed lots of sugar.  The proper medical/dental term for this bacterial infection is called caries.  We now have the ability to test for and treat the oral bacterial infection with one simple system called CariFree. 

What is a biofilm infection?
All teeth have a thin film on the surface that houses various microscopic bacteria called a biofilm. An infected oral biofilm occurs when the bacterial population shifts from being mostly normal oral bacteria to being mostly acid producing bacteria (like Strep Mutans) that are known to cause dental decay. The standard of care calls for the identification of an excessive load of cariogenic bacteria on the teeth and the administration of a treatment plan that includes treating the cariogenic bacteria. This is a paradigm shift from simply filling cavities to a model of prevention.

Promote healthy teeth — Stop filling cavities
CariFree employs advanced infection testing and treatment technology to promote long term dental health, instead of simply treating symptoms by filling cavities.  How is it possible? The advanced CariFree System measures the magnitude of harmful bacteria on the teeth. If harmful decay-causing bacteria are identified, the CariFree treatment plan would be prescribed for the patient.  Stop and think about it.  If your lawn was full of tall weeds, would mowing the lawn solve this problem?  It certainly would “treat the symptoms” of an ugly yard and you’d never see the weeds, would you?  All would look well…for a while anyway!  Unless you put weed killer on the lawn to remove the SOURCE of the problem…they’ll just keep coming back.  I’ll bet some of you know friends or family that has had their cavities filled, only to have new decay continue to occur.  Now you know why.  Simply “filling the holes” doesn’t solve caries!

You might be interested to know that: 

1.  Good oral hygiene may not stop cavities. Even if a patient brushes, flosses, and visits the dentist regularly, harmful levels of the decay-causing bacteria may still be present.  This happens when the balance of harmful bacteria far exceeds the amount of harmless bacteria in the biofilm of plaque on the teeth.  In cases like this, the patient requires MUCH more than brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings.  The CariFree system can help in cases like this.
2.  A bacterial infection on your teeth can also be transmitted to others. Studies show that harmful decay causing bacteria can be transmitted to other members of the household.  Does a lot of decay “run in your family”?  When this happens many people think that “soft teeth” run in their family and they’re just pre-destined to have a lot of decay as a result.  This is RARELY the case!  Families simply tend to “share” their germs…whether it be the common cold or caries.  THAT’S the problem!  It isn’t “soft enamel”…it’s untreated caries infection.
3.  If the bacterial infection is left untreated... Progressive steps of decay that may occur are.... Creation of cavities, leading to...crowns, bridges, and root canals, ultimately leading to...tooth loss...

CariFree embraces the new science
The CariFree system was specifically developed to embrace the new science of testing for and treating dental bacterial infection. Here is how the CariFree System works:

CariScreen:  an easy 1 minute test using a simple cotton swab to gather a specimen from two of your teeth.
The quick and easy CariScreen test determines your level of decay-causing bacteria. It takes only one minute to determine if you are at a low, moderate, or high risk of developing cavities in the future.  Since risk factors change over time, it is recommended that you take the CariScreen test once per year.  For the most accurate test results, do not eat or brush your teeth for at least one hour prior to the test.

Caries is a disease process.  Is your current dentist just "filling the holes"?  If so, you may want to seek treatment from a health-focused dentist that treats the CAUSE of the disease as well as it's symptoms. 

CariFree easy to use treatment program

Treatment consists of using a series of CariFree antibacterial mouth rinses to reduce the bacterial levels on your teeth, giving you a better chance of avoiding future dental decay. It’s that simple.  

There are two types of rinses:

CariFree Treatment Rinse – A two-part treatment rinse that kills the harmful destructive bacteria on your teeth. It has an elevated pH that is designed to offset the acidic condition of the infection.

CariFree Maintenance Rinse – A single bottle rinse used upon completion of the CariFree Treatment Rinse.  It is designed to create an environment in your mouth which prevents the destructive bacteria from re-establishing itself. It also has an elevated pH which promotes a healthy oral environment.

Order CariFree products online – If you know you have a caries problem, and you can't wait for your appointment to get started at our office, you can order CariFree products online by going to www.carifree.com and then just follow the directions.  The makers of CariFree products know that for best results you should be under the supervision of a dentist that understands CAries Management By Risk Assessment (CAMBRA) as well as being thoroughly trained in the proper use of CariFree products.  To get started prior to your visit you will save 5% off your order if you use this discount code while checking out: QUE1969

 

Daniel T. Quevedo, DDS - General Dentist Serving Longwood, Alaqua, Heathrow, Lake Mary, Altamonte Springs, Apopka, Winter Park, Maitland, Casselberry, Winter Springs, and the Greater Orlando area.

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