Prevention
Oral Cancer Screening
The newest tool in the fight against oral disease is the ViziLite Plus oral
lesion identification and marking system.
ViziLite Plus from Zila Pharmaceuticals combines the oral screening technology
of ViziLite, an advanced chemiluminescent light technology to help detect oral
abnormalities with T-Blue. TBlue is the only patented pharmaceutical-grade
form of toluidine blue that has been cleared by the FDA for use in marking
lesions during a ViziLite examination.
ViziLite Plus makes oral screening more comprehensive than ever before and is
indicated for use in individuals at increased risk of oral cancer. If ViziLite
reveals an abnormality, TBlue can used to mark suspicious lesions for further
evaluation.
Tooth Decay Prevention
Tooth decay is a progressive disease resulting in the interaction of bacteria that naturally occur on the teeth and sugars in the everyday diet. Sugar causes a reaction in the bacteria, causing it to produce acids that break down the mineral in teeth, forming a cavity. Dentists remove the decay and fill the tooth using a variety of fillings, restoring the tooth to a healthy state. Nerve damage can result from severe decay and may require a crown (a crown is like a large filling that can cap a tooth, making it stronger or covering it). Avoiding unnecessary decay simply requires strict adherence to a dental hygiene regimen: brushing and flossing twice a day, regular dental checkups, diet control and fluoride treatment. Practicing good hygiene avoids unhealthy teeth and costly treatment.
Sealants
The grooves and depressions that form the chewing surfaces of the back teeth are extremely difficult (if not impossible) to clean of bacteria and food. As the bacteria reacts with the food, acids form and break down the tooth enamel, causing cavities. Recent studies indicate that 88 percent of total cavities in American school children are caused this way.
Tooth sealants protect these susceptible areas by sealing the grooves and depressions, preventing bacteria and food particles from residing in these areas. Sealant material is a resin typically applied to the back teeth, molars and premolars and areas prone to cavities. It lasts for several years but needs to be checked during regular appointments.
Fluoride
Fluoride is a substance that helps teeth become stronger and resistant to decay. Regularly drinking water treated with fluoride and brushing and flossing regularly ensures significantly lower cavities.