We
caught up Dr. Brian Nový of the
DentaQuest Institute to get the answers to some of our questions about how to
determine and prevent risk.
1. What
do you think of the Justin Bieber toothbrush?
A. “Is
it ADA approved? Then I like it.” The ADA seal tells you the
toothbrush is effective.
2. Do
you see any signs my mouth is acidic?
A. Acidic
mouths are more prone to certain diseases like caries. Basic mouths are
more prone to form tartar.
3. Do
you floss?
A. Some
people don’t need to floss. This honest discussion improves rapport with
the dentist. They will tell you if you are one of the lucky ones to don’t
need to floss… although those people aren’t as common as you’d hope.
4. What
toothpaste is best?
A. Choose
your toothpaste based on flavor. If you like the flavor, you’re more
likely to use it. Also look for a toothpaste with the ADA Seal of
Acceptance. This means the toothpaste does what it says on the box.
If it doesn’t have the ADA seal, the claims on the box have not been evaluated
by independent dental researchers who are on the ADA Council of Scientific
Affairs.
5. Which
toothbrush do you use?
A. Many
people think dentists would use an expensive electric brush, but you may be
surprised to find that they use the same brush they give you after an
appointment. That’s not just a goody bag…. It contains products your oral
health team thinks would benefit you best. Sometimes you get the same brush the
dentist uses, other times they may recommend a specially shaped brush or even a
power toothbrush.
6. Tell
me about the candy that doesn’t cause cavities.
A. Candy
containing xylitol actually fights cavities and changes the bacteria that grow
in your mouth. Now there’s a taffy for you to eat right after you brush
that fights cavities.
7. Can
I brush less?
A. Brushing
your teeth may seem tedious and inconvenient. Your oral health team can
help you find ways that make it easier for everyone. They can tailor your
oral hygiene routine to fit your unique needs.
8. Do
I qualify for the no flossing policy?
A. When
patients bring up questions like flossing, it tells the oral health team, “This
patient deserves special attention.” It may surprise you learn some recent
research indicates that flossing isn’t for everyone. This relates to the
new trend in dentistry which is to practice evidence based dentistry.
9. Why
do I have cavities?
A. Cavities
are a disease that can be difficult to stop once it’s begun. New
therapies are being designed to stop the infection that causes tooth decay, and
sometimes the dentist can remineralize the teeth rather than fill them.
10. Can
you put a protective coating on my teeth so I won’t get cavities?
A. There
are special varnishes that can be applied after a cleaning to help prevent
cavities. Varnishes with calcium, phosphate, protein, fluoride, and
chlorhexidine allow your dentist to help your mouth remain healthy. They
can be reapplied more frequently if you need extra protection.