3 Treatments for Incipient Dental Caries
Dental caries are just a fancy word for cavities. Cavities mean tooth decay. In either case, incipient tooth decay means serious concern for your oral health. Whenever you hear any of these terms, you can pretty much assume the same thing—you’ll need professional treatment.
Dental caries in their beginning stages are called “incipient lesions” or “incipient caries.” Often, this means that they are so early on in their development that they are a relatively easy fix. Here are a few DIY treatments you can do before you schedule an appointment.
Fluoride Treatment
Fluoride can help make your teeth stronger. It is a mineral that helps replace the minerals lost during tooth decay. You can find fluoride-supported toothpaste, mouthwash, and other dental products. Your dentist may apply a topical treatment of fluoride to the affected areas for further protection.
Sealants
Dental sealants can help both prevent and treat tooth decay. Teeth have grooves, ridges, and pits that, unfortunately, trap sugars. These sugars bond with plaque and break down your teeth, causing incipient cavities. Sealants use biocompatible plastic to fill these gaps and act as a barrier to protect the tooth’s enamel.
ACP
ACP stands for amorphous calcium phosphate, another mineral that helps fight incipient caries. In other words, it works with fluoride to strengthen tooth enamel. You can find numerous dental products with ACP to decrease bacteria and increase mineralization.
Healthy Dental Habits
While these three solutions help, the best way to prevent incipient dental caries is with great oral hygiene habits! Always make sure to brush your teeth twice a day, and floss at least once. Also, remember to avoid sugary foods and drinks.
Call Us for Treatment!
When it’s time to schedule a dental cleaning, call Art of Modern Dentistry at 773-935-3600. We’re always happy to help you with professional teeth cleaning that fights cavities. Our staff have the knowledge, training, and experience to catch early cavities. We’ll provide the right dental care for your teeth to give you a healthy, long-lasting smile.