Plaque control and Dental caries Flashcards
if see caries on this surface, it is very worrisome
facial/lingual surfaces of tooth
does mechanical action of brushing your teeth reduce caries rates
NO!
there is no evidence that supports that mechanical action of tooth brush reduces caries…it is the FLUORIDE in toothpaste that is responsible for the decrease in caries rate
what are two reasons as to why toothbrushing alone is not sufficient in reducing caries
bristles do not reach into caries prone areas (pits and fissures)
usually not done in a sufficient way (technique bad)
how often should we brush our teeth for reduction in caries rates; what about gingivitis?
caries rates decrease if brush 2x day with fluoridated toothpaste
evidence shows brushing every other day reduces gingivitis in patients
does amount of fluoride used to brush teeth matter?
NO
it is the concentration of fluoride that is significant
when is the best time throughout the day to brush
before bed
before meals: shown to reduce acid production from food
at what age should individuals start to brush their teeth?? beginning before what age shows reduction in caries rates
should brush as soon as first tooth erupts
beginning before 1 year of age can reduce caries rates
does the orientation of the bristles on the tooth brush matter in plaque removal and gingivitis?
yes, the bristles arranged at different heights and angles has proven to help remove plaque and reduce gingivitis
what action of powered toothbrush has been proven to be most effective
oscillating/rotating/pulsating
what is most important to emphasize when teaching patient how to brush teeth
emphasize reaching all surfaces
does flossing help reduce risk of caries
may help if technique is correct
hard to get people to self floss correctly
T/F: effect oral hygiene measures are probably more important for maintenance of periodontal health than reducing caries rate
True
what is the most effective agent against caries
fluoride
why can’t we use antibiotics for long term use to reduce bacterial load
antibiotic resistance
in the US chlorhexidine is found in two forms
rinse
varnish
