Following provided courtesy of Crest
WHAT IS TOOTH DECAY?
Tooth enamel is hard yet porous. Plaque on the surface of your teeth
can produce acids that seep into the pores (rods) of the enamel and
break down its internal structure. This process, called
demineralization, can create a weak spot on the surface of the tooth
that may become a cavity if left untreated.
Decay often begins on biting surfaces, between the teeth, on exposed roots, and around existing fillings.
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Untreated, decay spreads into the tooth and can destroy the tooth structure.
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Decay enters and infects the pulp.
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THE ROLE OF FLUORIDE
Fluoride helps prevent tooth decay by slowing the breakdown of
enamel and speeding up the remineralization process. The new enamel
crystals that form are harder, larger, and more resistant to acid.
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TREATING AND PREVENTING TOOTH DECAY
Common sources of fluoride are fluoridated drinking water,
toothpaste, and mouth rinse. Inform your dentist if your drinking water
is not fluoridated. He or she may recommend that you use
high-concentration fluoride gels, mouth rinses, drops, or tablets.
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To help strengthen weak spots and exposed roots and prevent the
early stages of tooth decay, brush regularly with a fluoridated
toothpaste like Crest® Cavity Protection. In one study, patients using
Crest Cavity Protection developed 41% fewer cavities than patients
using a toothpaste without fluoride.*
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Daily brushing with Crest Cavity Protection, as well as regular
flossing and professional cleanings, will help prevent cavities and
preserve your oral health.
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Ask your dental professional how this Crest product can help you:
* Jensen ME, Kohout F. The effect of a fluoridated dentifrice on
root and coronal caries in an older adult population. J Am Dent Assoc.
1988:117:829-832.
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