Monday, November 16, 2009

Can I fix cavities with flouride treatments and flossing?

My dentist told me I have 6 cavities. I think he is trying to rip me off because I got 5 fillings just 1 year ago, and I'm pretty good at brushing. He says I'm 'extra susceptible' to cavities. This will cost me $1000 out of pocket to get these fillings, plus the 6 months of tooth sensitivity that occurred last time. If I promise to floss and fluoride everyday, and cut out soda, can I fix these on my own?

Can I fix cavities with flouride treatments and flossing?
I've seen people reduce cavities by drinking raw milk and raw butter. In your case, I would seek second opinion. Also if you want to save money in case you decide to get your cavities filled look into the DentalService4Less membership. Good luck! Let me know (email) if raw milk/butter diet helped!
Reply:cavities aren't fixable on your own they have to be filled so they don't spread
Reply:Depends on how deep the cavities are. If some are still in the enamel layer of your teeth (outtermost layer), the caries can be reversed. However, if it has penetrated to within your dentinal layer (middle layer), then the caries will need to be removed.





If you aren't sure about the diagnosis given by your dentist, you should obtain a second opinion, just to see what another professional has to say.
Reply:If you have a diet with frequent sugar intake then you are more susecsptible to getting decay/cavities in your teeth as they are constantly under attack. when you eat food or drinks containing sugar the pH level in your mouth becomes very acidic "danger zone" and can take up to an hour to go back to a neutral pH which we call the "safe zone" so frequent drinking of soda and sweets mean you are frequently in the "danger zone" - if this sounds like your diet then you may well have new cavities.





Early signs of decay are "white spot lesions" where most ppl refer to these marks as calcium coming out of the teeth. The enamel of the tooth is attacked by the acid formed by the plaque and sugars, At this stage the decay can be "stopped" with the use of strong fluoride and perfect oral hygiene, brushing flossing and mouth wash.





But once the decay has broken the enamel and a "cavity" has formed then you have to have it treated by a dentist. Decay can spread quickly inside the tooth leaving a large cavity underneath the tiny hole on the surface.





If left untreated the decay will eventually reach the nerve and more complex treatment like Root canal treatment will be required if you wish to save the tooth.





Best advice is to speak to your dentist/hygienist and have them explain and show you where the cavities are and also to look at your diet and see how much and how frequently you consume sugar, just think eg if you have sugar in your tea and have 3 or 4 cups a day , thats 3 or 4 attacks. Check food labels for hidden sugars in foods like ketchup, yogurt and backed beans! If having Soda or sugary drinks have them with a meal where your teeth are under attack already, this is the "safest" time for these drinks.
Reply:Cavities are Decay. Decay spreads. You cannot cure a cavity without removing the decay. I don't know many dentists who are out there to rip you off. They would make a lot more money off of you with cosmetic work or if you wait until the decay spreads you could need onlays, crowns and eventually root canals. Think about $1000 minimum per tooth by doing nothing! Ask your dentist if they use a "caries indicator dye" Once the soft/visible decay is removed they can put the dye on your tooth and it will change color to make sure all of the decay is removed before you invest in the fillings and you can ask to see where the decay is. Most offices can take photos to show you. My concern is why do you think your dentist is scamming you? If there is any reason you do not trust your dentist's judgment I would find another one who you do trust.


No comments:

Post a Comment

Note: Only a member of this blog may post a comment.

 
vc .net