For over 70 years, fluoride has been known to benefit dental health by reducing tooth decay. It is a mineral that occurs naturally in water, rocks, plants and soil.

Tooth decay starts when acids attack the surface of the tooth. These acids are a natural byproduct of the food we eat. What fluoride does is to quickly repair or remineralize the damage caused by acids before it can deepen and cause cavities.

We use fluoride in two ways to fight tooth decay. The first is called “topical”. Topical means applied to a surface, like you apply sunscreen topically to your skin. The most obvious topical application of fluoride is in the toothpaste we use. When you use a mouthwash that contains fluoride, or a toothpaste or other dental products, or even when you drink water that contains fluoride, you are applying it topically to the surface of your teeth.

The other way we take fluoride is called “systemic”. This is where, for example, a public water supply is treated with fluoride. When we drink the water we ingest the fluoride into our systems. That way fluoride works from the inside. While our teeth are forming inside our gums, the fluoride starts working to strengthen the enamel on the surfaces. In the Unites States, approximately 75% of us drink water that has been treated with fluoride. Fluoride taken systemically like this also provides a topical application because our saliva now contains fluoride. So fluoride is constantly being applied to the surfaces of our teeth.

The benefits of fluoride are well proven. Studies show that the best results occur when we take it both systemically and topically. It is believed that this method reduces cavities by 25%.  The World Health Organization, the American Dental Association and dozens of international health bodies agree with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention who declared that fluoridation of the public water supply is “one of 10 great public health achievements” in preventing tooth decay.

Find out more at ada.org (Miami, Dental)

In our image conscious society, the natural look of composite fillings means that they have become more popular than metal (gold) or amalgam fillings. They can be made to match the color of your teeth. And anything that improves self-image also boosts self-confidence, so this is a good thing.

Composite fillings can be used on all teeth, front and back, and stand up well to the natural pressure of chewing. They are best suited to small fillings or fractures. Some dental insurance plans may not cover them because they are more expensive than amalgams. Be aware that opinions vary as regards the durability and longevity of composite fillings. However, all fillings have a finite life span in any case.

One reason why they are more expensive than amalgam fillings is because the procedure takes longer. This is because the area to be filled needs to be kept perfectly dry and free from moisture while the filling is being applied. However, more and more patients feel that composites are worth a little extra for the natural looking cosmetic effect that provides a feel-good factor.

Don’t forget that it’s far better to avoid fillings in the first place. Practice sensible dental hygiene by incorporating these four simple practices into your health routine:

• Visit you dentist for a checkup every six months
• Avoid over indulgence in sugary snacks and soft drinks
• Brush your teeth at least twice daily and use a fluoride toothpaste
• Floss between your teeth daily

#Miami #Fine Dentistry #Coral Gables

Dental restorations are the techniques your dentist uses to restore a damaged tooth structure where parts of the tooth may be missing. This may have been caused by an accident, by decay or where a previous restoration has simply worn out. Restoration also includes replacing a damaged or missing tooth or teeth.

One approach to replacing a missing tooth is to fit a dental bridge. A bridge is basically a false tooth that can be affixed to the teeth at either side of the missing one and is cemented permanently into place. An implant bridge is more complex and attaches the replacement teeth under the gum or directly to the jaw. This requires that your gums and bone are in a good and healthy condition. A bridge can be made from porcelain or other modern materials. Your dentist will advise you on the options that are currently available.

Dental crowns are like caps that are placed over a damaged tooth or a dental implant. Crowns restore both the appearance and integrity of the original tooth.

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As grown-ups, we realize that our teeth require consistent care. A strong oral cleanliness normal and expert dental care are both imperative. Be that as it may, the same is valid for a kid's first teeth, despite the fact that they are in the end lost to clear a path for the lasting teeth. Truth be told, the disregard of a kid's drain teeth and general oral wellbeing can have genuine results that could last well into adulthood ...

A latex allergy is a reaction to the proteins in the rubber from which latex products, such as gloves, are made. Symptoms are often such minor complaints as nasal congestion. In very severe cases it may lead to anaphylaxis, which is a strong reaction resulting in difficulty breathing, lowered blood pressure and swelling of the nose, tongue and throat. It may even lead to unconsciousness. This sort of anaphylactic reaction requires urgent medical attention.

If you suspect a latex reaction, check with your physician who will be able to run appropriate tests. If the results are positive, the strategies for dealing with it can be discussed. Obviously, it is advisable ten to avoid contact with latex objects. Also, it’s best to inform your dentist when booking your next checkup so that appropriate arrangements can be made when you arrive.