2 South Main St.

Manchester, NY 14504
Phone: 315.462.5633

info@grapelakesdental.com 

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Prevention

Tooth Decay Prevention

tooth decay prevention clifton nyThe progressive disease of tooth decay is a result of the interaction between the naturally occurring bacteria on teeth and sugars in your diet.  A reaction in the natural bacteria caused by sugar produces acids that will break down the minerals in the tooth creating a cavity. Drs. Labrecque and Charles remove the decay created from the acid, and fill in the tooth with a filling to restore it. Severe decay can cause nerve damage and this could require a crown be placed on the tooth. Maintaining a good dental hygiene routine that includes brushing and flossing twice a day, regular dental check-ups, diet control and fluoride treatments can reduce the excess decay and avoid unhealthy teeth and costly treatments. 

Sealants

Your back teeth have grooves and depressions that form the chewing surface, and this is very difficult to clean. Bacteria and food can remain in these grooves and when they react acid forms and breaks down the tooth’s enamel which causes cavities. 
Using a tooth sealant protects these vulnerable areas by preventing bacteria and food from staying in the areas. A sealant is typically a resin material and is applied to the back teeth, molars and premolars and any other area that is prone to cavities. Sealants can last for several years but do need to be checked at your regular appointments. 

Fluoride

The use of fluoride has proven to help teeth become stronger and resistant to decay. At your regular check-ups we will provide a fluoride treatment for you. Drinking water that has been treated with fluoride and brushing and flossing regular has proven to reduce the amount of cavities.

Thumb Sucking

For babies and toddlers, sucking is a natural reflex and helps to relax the child. If your child sucks their thumb, this typically stops when the permanent front teeth are ready to erupt or between the ages of 2 to 4 years. If thumb sucking continues after the eruption of primary teeth, improper growth of the mouth and misalignment of the teeth can occur. Contact us at Grape Lakes Family Dental if your child has prolonged or vigorous thumb sucking. 

To help your child outgrow thumb sucking you can try some of these ideas: 

  • Don’t scold a child when they exhibit thumb sucking behavior; instead, praise them when they don’t suck his or her thumb.
  • Focus on eliminating the cause of anxiety – thumb sucking is a comfort device that helps children cope with stress or discomfort.
  • Praise them when they refrain from the habit during difficult periods.
  • Place a bandage on the thumb or a sock on their hand at night.

 

2 South Main Street

Manchester, NY 14504

 

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