SEALANTS
Tips from Dr. Jeff – SEALANTS FOR YOUR CHILD
Here is a list of commonly asked questions about sealants and the answers from our hygienists and Dr. Jeff.
What is a sealant?
A thin protective coating that is placed into the grooves of the chewing surface of teeth.
What are the benefits?
The major benefit is cavity prevention. Molars naturally have deep grooves that trap plaque that can lead to cavities.
Which teeth should have sealants?
The 6-year old molars and sometimes the 12-year old molars, (teeth #s 2, 3, 14, 15, 18, 19, 30, and 31).
When should my child get sealants?
When the teeth are fully erupted, usually around 6 years old.
How long do sealants last?
Depending on the child’s eating habits and oral hygiene, sealants can last anywhere from 2 years to 30 years.
How long does it take to place the sealants?
Approximately 30 minutes for 4 molars.
Will my child need anesthetic?
No, the process is painless.
Will sealants affect my child’s bite?
No, the coating is thin and unnoticeable.
Are sealants silver and noticeable?
No, sealants match the color of enamel.
How much do sealants cost?
The cost depends on insurance and age. Some insurance companies will cover some if not most of the cost for children.
If you are interested in sealants for your child or would like more information, please give us a call!
Here is a list of commonly asked questions about sealants and the answers from our hygienists and Dr. Jeff.
What is a sealant?
A thin protective coating that is placed into the grooves of the chewing surface of teeth.
What are the benefits?
The major benefit is cavity prevention. Molars naturally have deep grooves that trap plaque that can lead to cavities.
Which teeth should have sealants?
The 6-year old molars and sometimes the 12-year old molars, (teeth #s 2, 3, 14, 15, 18, 19, 30, and 31).
When should my child get sealants?
When the teeth are fully erupted, usually around 6 years old.
How long do sealants last?
Depending on the child’s eating habits and oral hygiene, sealants can last anywhere from 2 years to 30 years.
How long does it take to place the sealants?
Approximately 30 minutes for 4 molars.
Will my child need anesthetic?
No, the process is painless.
Will sealants affect my child’s bite?
No, the coating is thin and unnoticeable.
Are sealants silver and noticeable?
No, sealants match the color of enamel.
How much do sealants cost?
The cost depends on insurance and age. Some insurance companies will cover some if not most of the cost for children.
If you are interested in sealants for your child or would like more information, please give us a call!
COLD SORES VS CANKER SORES
Tips from Dr. Jeff – COLD SORES VS CANKER SORES
Is there a difference? YES!
COLD SORES:
What are they caused by? Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV).
Where are they found? On/around the lips; OUTSIDE the mouth.
What do they look like? Red, fluid-filled blisters clustered in groups.
Are they contagious? YES! Skin to skin contact can spread the virus when the blister is active.
Is there treatment? YES! We recommend using Abreva. If the outbreak is severe we do offer an in office treatment of a topical antibiotic.
CANKER SORES:
What are they caused by? Not clearly defined. Stress, fatigue, trauma, hormones, and food allergies can trigger them. Some cases have been linked to the HSV.
Where are they found? INSIDE the mouth, gums, and tongue.
What do they look like? Open sores with a white, yellow, or grey center and a red border.
Are they contagious? NO!
Is there treatment? The only thing we can recommend is Orajel for comfort. There is no antibiotic that can be prescribed.
If you have any questions or concerns about cold sores vs. canker sores, please feel free to give us a call!
Is there a difference? YES!
COLD SORES:
What are they caused by? Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV).
Where are they found? On/around the lips; OUTSIDE the mouth.
What do they look like? Red, fluid-filled blisters clustered in groups.
Are they contagious? YES! Skin to skin contact can spread the virus when the blister is active.
Is there treatment? YES! We recommend using Abreva. If the outbreak is severe we do offer an in office treatment of a topical antibiotic.
CANKER SORES:
What are they caused by? Not clearly defined. Stress, fatigue, trauma, hormones, and food allergies can trigger them. Some cases have been linked to the HSV.
Where are they found? INSIDE the mouth, gums, and tongue.
What do they look like? Open sores with a white, yellow, or grey center and a red border.
Are they contagious? NO!
Is there treatment? The only thing we can recommend is Orajel for comfort. There is no antibiotic that can be prescribed.
If you have any questions or concerns about cold sores vs. canker sores, please feel free to give us a call!
WORST AND BEST FOODS FOR YOUR TEETH
Tips from Dr. Jeff – WORST AND BEST FOODS FOR YOUR TEETH
Many patients ask us, what are the worst and best foods for your teeth? Here’s a list along with the reasons.
WORST FOODS
CITRUS – Erodes enamel
STICKY, CHEWY CANDY – Gets stuck in your teeth and the bacteria in your mouth feeds off the sugars causing cavities
SODA – Sugar, citric and phosphoric acid causes erosion
SPORTS DRINKS – Acidic, causing erosion
WINE – Stains, tannis dries the mouth causing teeth to be sticky and more vulnerable to staining
COFFEE – Stains
TEA – Stains, causes erosion
ICE – Chewing ice will cause cracks and breaks
DRIED FRUIT – Loaded with sugar
BEST FOODS
SUGAR FREE GUM – Produces saliva and washes away acids
WATER – Contains fluoride, washes away sugar and acids
CALCIUM – Strengthens enamel
STRAWBERRIES – Contains malic acid making it natures teeth whitener
If you have any questions regarding what foods are bad/good for your teeth, give us a call!
Many patients ask us, what are the worst and best foods for your teeth? Here’s a list along with the reasons.
WORST FOODS
CITRUS – Erodes enamel
STICKY, CHEWY CANDY – Gets stuck in your teeth and the bacteria in your mouth feeds off the sugars causing cavities
SODA – Sugar, citric and phosphoric acid causes erosion
SPORTS DRINKS – Acidic, causing erosion
WINE – Stains, tannis dries the mouth causing teeth to be sticky and more vulnerable to staining
COFFEE – Stains
TEA – Stains, causes erosion
ICE – Chewing ice will cause cracks and breaks
DRIED FRUIT – Loaded with sugar
BEST FOODS
SUGAR FREE GUM – Produces saliva and washes away acids
WATER – Contains fluoride, washes away sugar and acids
CALCIUM – Strengthens enamel
STRAWBERRIES – Contains malic acid making it natures teeth whitener
If you have any questions regarding what foods are bad/good for your teeth, give us a call!
NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTIONS
Tips from Dr. Jeff – NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTIONS
Welcome to 2015 at Dr. Murphy’s office! Do you have a new year’s resolution for a brighter, whiter, healthier smile and lifestyle? Then come see us!
Remember good dental hygiene does not just benefit a healthy mouth, but a healthy body as well. Oral health is directly linked to diabetes, heart disease, osteoporosis, arthritis, pneumonia, and obesity.
Let us help you achieve your goals for 2015! Our hygienists are ready to clean your teeth and Dr. Jeff is ready to make a customized treatment plan for your new year’s goals. Call and make an appointment today!
Welcome to 2015 at Dr. Murphy’s office! Do you have a new year’s resolution for a brighter, whiter, healthier smile and lifestyle? Then come see us!
Remember good dental hygiene does not just benefit a healthy mouth, but a healthy body as well. Oral health is directly linked to diabetes, heart disease, osteoporosis, arthritis, pneumonia, and obesity.
Let us help you achieve your goals for 2015! Our hygienists are ready to clean your teeth and Dr. Jeff is ready to make a customized treatment plan for your new year’s goals. Call and make an appointment today!
CLEANING UP CONFUSION
Tips from Dr. Jeff – CLEANING UP CONFUSION
There have recently been websites and journals promoting holistic ways to take care of your teeth. Some may even sound convincing. However, there is a lack of scientific studies and proof.
As a practicing dentist for almost 30 years I want to advise my patients to use ADA approved toothbrushes, toothpastes, floss, and mouth rinse. Look for the ADA seal on the products you use.
The best way to take care of your teeth and gums is do the basics. Use a soft bristle toothbrush. Use toothpastes and mouth rinses that have fluoride. Use floss, (waxed or unwaxed), to clean in between your teeth. And most importantly come to our office at least twice a year for cleanings; and once a year for x-rays and an exam.
If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to call our office and set up an appointment to see Dr. Jeff regarding your oral health.
There have recently been websites and journals promoting holistic ways to take care of your teeth. Some may even sound convincing. However, there is a lack of scientific studies and proof.
As a practicing dentist for almost 30 years I want to advise my patients to use ADA approved toothbrushes, toothpastes, floss, and mouth rinse. Look for the ADA seal on the products you use.
The best way to take care of your teeth and gums is do the basics. Use a soft bristle toothbrush. Use toothpastes and mouth rinses that have fluoride. Use floss, (waxed or unwaxed), to clean in between your teeth. And most importantly come to our office at least twice a year for cleanings; and once a year for x-rays and an exam.
If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to call our office and set up an appointment to see Dr. Jeff regarding your oral health.
WHITENING
Tips from Dr. Jeff – TEETH WHITENING
Let’s start with the basics. What stains our teeth? EVERYTHING! Certain antibiotics, genetics, aging, different types of foods, soda, coffee, etc. Think of it this way, if it stains a white shirt, it can stain your teeth.
How can we reduce or eliminate the stains on our teeth? Whitening! Here are several options to consider if you want a whiter, brighter smile.
1. Regular dental cleanings. Believe it or not, having your teeth cleaned and polished regularly removes stains and keeps your smile bright.
2. Whitening toothpaste. Whitening toothpastes have special chemical or polishing agents that provide additional stain removal effectiveness. Toothpaste is not like bleach, it will not change the color of your teeth; it will only remove surface stains. Be sure to look for toothpaste with the ADA seal.
3. Over the counter strips. These strips can remove surface stain and give you a whiter brighter smile. However, be careful. These strips contain a bleaching agent of peroxide which can be harsh on your gums. Follow the directions carefully.
4. At-home bleaching. We offer a fantastic at-home bleaching system. Impressions are taken for custom bleach trays (we contour the gum line so the bleach will not affect your gums). The next day you pick up your trays and the bleach gel. For two weeks you will place a small amount of gel in the trays and wear them for twice a day for 30-45 minutes. After that you can do touch ups when needed.
5. Cosmetic veneers or crowns. If you would like to consider a permanent whiter and brighter smile Dr. Jeff can place veneers or crowns on your existing teeth and those will cover any and all stains. You can even choose your shade.
Call our office today to set up an appointment to discuss your options with Dr. Jeff.
Let’s start with the basics. What stains our teeth? EVERYTHING! Certain antibiotics, genetics, aging, different types of foods, soda, coffee, etc. Think of it this way, if it stains a white shirt, it can stain your teeth.
How can we reduce or eliminate the stains on our teeth? Whitening! Here are several options to consider if you want a whiter, brighter smile.
1. Regular dental cleanings. Believe it or not, having your teeth cleaned and polished regularly removes stains and keeps your smile bright.
2. Whitening toothpaste. Whitening toothpastes have special chemical or polishing agents that provide additional stain removal effectiveness. Toothpaste is not like bleach, it will not change the color of your teeth; it will only remove surface stains. Be sure to look for toothpaste with the ADA seal.
3. Over the counter strips. These strips can remove surface stain and give you a whiter brighter smile. However, be careful. These strips contain a bleaching agent of peroxide which can be harsh on your gums. Follow the directions carefully.
4. At-home bleaching. We offer a fantastic at-home bleaching system. Impressions are taken for custom bleach trays (we contour the gum line so the bleach will not affect your gums). The next day you pick up your trays and the bleach gel. For two weeks you will place a small amount of gel in the trays and wear them for twice a day for 30-45 minutes. After that you can do touch ups when needed.
5. Cosmetic veneers or crowns. If you would like to consider a permanent whiter and brighter smile Dr. Jeff can place veneers or crowns on your existing teeth and those will cover any and all stains. You can even choose your shade.
Call our office today to set up an appointment to discuss your options with Dr. Jeff.
CAVITY QUIZ
Tips from Dr. Jeff – CAVITY QUIZ
Have fun with our little cavity quiz!
Sports drinks can cause cavities.
TRUE! Make sure you rinse your mouth with water after you have a sports drink to lower the acid and sugar levels.
Sugar causes cavities.
FALSE…kind of. Sugar alone does not cause cavities, the acid produced by bacteria causes cavities.
Saliva protects your teeth against cavities.
TRUE! Saliva keeps our mouths moist and washes away food particles. There are also certain minerals in saliva that strengthen the enamel of your teeth.
Plaque does not cause cavities.
FALSE! Think of plaque like peanut butter on a spoon. Within 2-6 hours after brushing the plaque teams up with bacteria that can cause cavities and perio disease. Brush and rinse regularly.
Chips and cracks can lead to cavities.
TRUE! Bacteria forms in the chips and cracks where your brush cannot reach.
Cavities are preventable.
TRUE! TRUE! TRUE! If you brush twice a day, floss once a day, drink plenty of water, and come to the dentist twice a year.
Have fun with our little cavity quiz!
Sports drinks can cause cavities.
TRUE! Make sure you rinse your mouth with water after you have a sports drink to lower the acid and sugar levels.
Sugar causes cavities.
FALSE…kind of. Sugar alone does not cause cavities, the acid produced by bacteria causes cavities.
Saliva protects your teeth against cavities.
TRUE! Saliva keeps our mouths moist and washes away food particles. There are also certain minerals in saliva that strengthen the enamel of your teeth.
Plaque does not cause cavities.
FALSE! Think of plaque like peanut butter on a spoon. Within 2-6 hours after brushing the plaque teams up with bacteria that can cause cavities and perio disease. Brush and rinse regularly.
Chips and cracks can lead to cavities.
TRUE! Bacteria forms in the chips and cracks where your brush cannot reach.
Cavities are preventable.
TRUE! TRUE! TRUE! If you brush twice a day, floss once a day, drink plenty of water, and come to the dentist twice a year.
BABY TEETH
Here are some common questions we hear in our office concerning baby teeth.
Q: Is it okay for my child to brush their teeth by themselves?
A: NO! Children up to the age of seven should not only be supervised but assisted as well. The majority of the brushing should be done by the adult.
Q: How much toothpaste should I put on my child’s toothbrush?
A: Birth-3 years – an amount the size of a grain of rice. 3 years-6 years – an amount the size of a pea.
Q: Should I floss my child’s teeth?
A: YES! Food catches easily in your child’s teeth. Floss for them at least once a day.
Q: When should my child start coming to the dentist?
A: As long as your child is not complaining of pain, we recommend bringing your child in for a cleaning, x-rays, and exam at 3 years old. IF your child is complaining of a tooth ache, please do not hesitate to call us.
Q: Should my child get sealants?
A: YES! It is a pain-free procedure that adds a protective coating against cavities to the molars.
Q: If my child has a cavity in a baby tooth, can we skip getting it filled and wait for it to fall out?
A: NO! Cavities in baby teeth are very serious and should be taken care of right away. The decay can progress to the nerve of the baby tooth leading to the need of a baby root canal. This is extremely painful to the child. Further, the decay can transfer itself to permanent tooth and cause decay before the tooth erupts.
Q: Should my child use toothpaste with fluoride?
A: YES! YES! YES! Fluoride prevents cavities and protects enamel.
If you have any questions or concerns about your child’s oral health, please call our office anytime!
Q: Is it okay for my child to brush their teeth by themselves?
A: NO! Children up to the age of seven should not only be supervised but assisted as well. The majority of the brushing should be done by the adult.
Q: How much toothpaste should I put on my child’s toothbrush?
A: Birth-3 years – an amount the size of a grain of rice. 3 years-6 years – an amount the size of a pea.
Q: Should I floss my child’s teeth?
A: YES! Food catches easily in your child’s teeth. Floss for them at least once a day.
Q: When should my child start coming to the dentist?
A: As long as your child is not complaining of pain, we recommend bringing your child in for a cleaning, x-rays, and exam at 3 years old. IF your child is complaining of a tooth ache, please do not hesitate to call us.
Q: Should my child get sealants?
A: YES! It is a pain-free procedure that adds a protective coating against cavities to the molars.
Q: If my child has a cavity in a baby tooth, can we skip getting it filled and wait for it to fall out?
A: NO! Cavities in baby teeth are very serious and should be taken care of right away. The decay can progress to the nerve of the baby tooth leading to the need of a baby root canal. This is extremely painful to the child. Further, the decay can transfer itself to permanent tooth and cause decay before the tooth erupts.
Q: Should my child use toothpaste with fluoride?
A: YES! YES! YES! Fluoride prevents cavities and protects enamel.
If you have any questions or concerns about your child’s oral health, please call our office anytime!
BRUXISM
Tips from Dr. Jeff – BRUXISM
Bruxism is another word for clenching or grinding. We unconsciously clench our teeth together during the day leading to jaw pain, headaches, and fractured teeth. The clenching and grinding effect happens at night even more so. Have you ever woken up with a headache or a tense jaw?
Not to worry, relief can be found at our office!
After researching and trying numerous styles, we have found a comfortable, self-adjusting mouth guard that can be worn during the day (especially while driving) and at night to protect your teeth and jaw.
Call our office today to set up an appointment to make impressions for your custom bite guard today!
Bruxism is another word for clenching or grinding. We unconsciously clench our teeth together during the day leading to jaw pain, headaches, and fractured teeth. The clenching and grinding effect happens at night even more so. Have you ever woken up with a headache or a tense jaw?
Not to worry, relief can be found at our office!
After researching and trying numerous styles, we have found a comfortable, self-adjusting mouth guard that can be worn during the day (especially while driving) and at night to protect your teeth and jaw.
Call our office today to set up an appointment to make impressions for your custom bite guard today!
CANDY!
Tips from Dr. Jeff – CANDY!
Halloween is fast approaching and the availability of candy is increasing. Here are some tips to help your children (and yourself) enjoy candy without suffering from cavities.
1. Keep the candy up and away (or freeze them) so people cannot snack on them throughout the day.
2. Have a specific treat time and brush soon after to remove the sweet remains to avoid decay.
3. Sugar plays a harmful role in tooth decay. The bacterium that forms to become plaque uses sugar as energy. Brush regularly to avoid buildup.
4. The amount of sugar does not determine whether a cavity will form. The determining factor is exposure time. The longer the candy sits on your teeth (like sticky chewy candy) the more risk your teeth have to developing cavities.
5. Drink water while you are eating your candy. The water will help wash away the debris.
6. Enjoy the holiday treats; just do so in moderation and remember to take care of your teeth.
Call our office anytime to make a cleaning appointment!
Halloween is fast approaching and the availability of candy is increasing. Here are some tips to help your children (and yourself) enjoy candy without suffering from cavities.
1. Keep the candy up and away (or freeze them) so people cannot snack on them throughout the day.
2. Have a specific treat time and brush soon after to remove the sweet remains to avoid decay.
3. Sugar plays a harmful role in tooth decay. The bacterium that forms to become plaque uses sugar as energy. Brush regularly to avoid buildup.
4. The amount of sugar does not determine whether a cavity will form. The determining factor is exposure time. The longer the candy sits on your teeth (like sticky chewy candy) the more risk your teeth have to developing cavities.
5. Drink water while you are eating your candy. The water will help wash away the debris.
6. Enjoy the holiday treats; just do so in moderation and remember to take care of your teeth.
Call our office anytime to make a cleaning appointment!
FLUORIDE...AGAIN!
Tips from Dr. Jeff – FLUORIDE QUIZ
We’re back discussing fluoride today because it is that important! Let’s take a quiz to see how your fluoride health measures up.
1. Fluoride only benefits dental health in children.
FALSE!
Fluoride prevents cavities and strengthens enamel in kids AND adults.
2. Fluoride is in water.
TRUE!
Fluoride can be found in all water sources but the levels vary.
3. Babies and children need to use fluoride toothpaste.
TRUE!
When baby’s teeth come in until they are 3 years old, use an amount the size of a grain of rice.
Children 3-6 years old, use an amount the size of a pea.
Fluoride is extremely important to use though out life. We promote the use of it in our office. Any questions or concerns you may have can be addressed directly. Give us a call for an appointment.
We’re back discussing fluoride today because it is that important! Let’s take a quiz to see how your fluoride health measures up.
1. Fluoride only benefits dental health in children.
FALSE!
Fluoride prevents cavities and strengthens enamel in kids AND adults.
2. Fluoride is in water.
TRUE!
Fluoride can be found in all water sources but the levels vary.
3. Babies and children need to use fluoride toothpaste.
TRUE!
When baby’s teeth come in until they are 3 years old, use an amount the size of a grain of rice.
Children 3-6 years old, use an amount the size of a pea.
Fluoride is extremely important to use though out life. We promote the use of it in our office. Any questions or concerns you may have can be addressed directly. Give us a call for an appointment.
BRUSHING YOUR TEETH
Tips from Dr. Jeff – BRUSHING YOUR TEETH
I recommend brushing your teeth at least twice a day; morning and night.
Brushing your teeth helps remove food debris and plaque. The bacteria in plaque can release acids that break down enamel, leading to cavities and gum disease. Plaque that isn’t removed can harden into tartar and then can only be removed by a dental professional.
To brush properly, use an ADA approved fluoride toothpaste; place your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to the gums. Gently brush in a circular motion.
Remember to replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months, or when the bristles become frayed.
Patients who come into our office for a cleaning receive a free toothbrush. Call us today to get a jumpstart on oral health.
I recommend brushing your teeth at least twice a day; morning and night.
Brushing your teeth helps remove food debris and plaque. The bacteria in plaque can release acids that break down enamel, leading to cavities and gum disease. Plaque that isn’t removed can harden into tartar and then can only be removed by a dental professional.
To brush properly, use an ADA approved fluoride toothpaste; place your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to the gums. Gently brush in a circular motion.
Remember to replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months, or when the bristles become frayed.
Patients who come into our office for a cleaning receive a free toothbrush. Call us today to get a jumpstart on oral health.
DRY MOUTH
Tips from Dr. Jeff – DRY MOUTH
Dry mouth can be caused by a decrease in saliva flow, various medications, mouth breathing, and/or salivary gland problems.
How can dry mouth affect me? With decreased saliva, food particles are not flushed away from tooth surfaces, causing plaque build up leading to cavities and gum disease.
What can help? Keeping a bottle of water with you and taking a sip every five minutes can help moisten the mouth. Sucking on a piece of sugar free candy can also help saliva production. If these suggestions do not help, a prescription for artificial saliva or a nightly topical fluoride may be in order. If you have concerns regarding your dry mouth, please call to set up an appointment.
Dry mouth can be caused by a decrease in saliva flow, various medications, mouth breathing, and/or salivary gland problems.
How can dry mouth affect me? With decreased saliva, food particles are not flushed away from tooth surfaces, causing plaque build up leading to cavities and gum disease.
What can help? Keeping a bottle of water with you and taking a sip every five minutes can help moisten the mouth. Sucking on a piece of sugar free candy can also help saliva production. If these suggestions do not help, a prescription for artificial saliva or a nightly topical fluoride may be in order. If you have concerns regarding your dry mouth, please call to set up an appointment.
FLOSSING
Tips from Dr. Jeff – FLOSS DAILY
Brushing is great for the teeth. However, brushing only cleans the top surfaces and gumline of the teeth. How do you clean the surfaces in between your teeth? FLOSS!
There are so many benefits to flossing: healthy gums, less bleeding and inflammation, fewer cavities between teeth, the chance of periodontal disease goes down, and simply, the food that gets caught between your teeth is removed.
Come in to our office for a cleaning and you can receive a lesson on how to floss correctly so your teeth and gums can be as healthy as they can.
Brushing is great for the teeth. However, brushing only cleans the top surfaces and gumline of the teeth. How do you clean the surfaces in between your teeth? FLOSS!
There are so many benefits to flossing: healthy gums, less bleeding and inflammation, fewer cavities between teeth, the chance of periodontal disease goes down, and simply, the food that gets caught between your teeth is removed.
Come in to our office for a cleaning and you can receive a lesson on how to floss correctly so your teeth and gums can be as healthy as they can.
FLUORIDE
Tips from Dr. Jeff – FLUORIDE
With over 27 years experience in the dental field I can strongly endorse the use of fluoride for ALL patients.
In children, fluoride helps prevent cavities in developing teeth. I recommend a fluoride treatment at cleaning appointments every 6 months for children 4-16.
Elderly patients can be susceptible to cavities around the gumline because of dry mouth due to the use of prescription medications. In this case, patients should use a fluoride treatment nightly (Prevident…which we carry in our office).
Anyone can request fluoride treatments at every cleaning. Talk to a team member to learn more!
#TipsFromDrJeff @DrJCMurph
With over 27 years experience in the dental field I can strongly endorse the use of fluoride for ALL patients.
In children, fluoride helps prevent cavities in developing teeth. I recommend a fluoride treatment at cleaning appointments every 6 months for children 4-16.
Elderly patients can be susceptible to cavities around the gumline because of dry mouth due to the use of prescription medications. In this case, patients should use a fluoride treatment nightly (Prevident…which we carry in our office).
Anyone can request fluoride treatments at every cleaning. Talk to a team member to learn more!
#TipsFromDrJeff @DrJCMurph