
CAVITIES
Cavities, or dental caries, is the most common disease of childhood. Since teeth don't self-repair, it is best to prevent the need for treatment. Good home care and fluoride supplements, as well as a careful diet, are your first lines of defense. There are some areas of the teeth that are more prone to decay than others. The areas in between the teeth cannot be completely cleaned with a toothbrush. What is needed is something that passes between the teeth, and that is dental floss. It appears that dental floss does not get the same publicity as toothpaste and toothbrushes, as manufacturers have chosen to not advertise floss. When is the last time you saw a floss commercial? Well, there are none. My job, as a dentist, is to convince you that floss is as important as tooth brushing, but this is difficult without commercial reminders. Using floss regularly, it is possible to prevent decay in between your teeth.