
Nov
Dental caries is another way to say cavities or tooth decay. This decay
occurs when acid and demineralization breaks down the enamel of a tooth.
This problem is not always caused by poor hygiene. As a matter of fact,
there are some individuals who follow their dentist’s instructions
strictly and still have dental caries. In some cases the problem is
caused by poor food choices. Foods that are high in sugar or are very
acidic, can lead to dental caries. Improper pH levels in the saliva or
an inadequate amount of saliva (dry mouth), due to certain medications,
can also lead to tooth decay. There are always bacteria in the mouth but
if it becomes excessive, it can have damaging effects on not only your
oral health, but also your overall health.
It is important to treat dental caries as early as possible to
prevent further damage to the tooth structure. But more important, is to
find and treat the cause of the decay. Dr. Cruz in Laguna Niguel is
able to assess your condition using CAMBRA. This acronym stands for
Caries Management by Risk Assessment. Dr. Cruz will evaluate your mouth
by doing a series of tests including testing the pH levels and acidity
of your saliva. He will also discuss your current medications to see if
they could be causing problems in your mouth.
Dr. Cruz wants you to keep your teeth for a lifetime. The best way
to do this is through prevention. A CAMBRA evaluation could help
identify potential risks and allow for treatment before more problems
arise. Completing a risk assessment will allow you to take steps to stop
tooth decay or drastically reduce your risk of dental caries.
If you have been experiencing recurrent dental caries, despite
following all of the proper hygiene techniques, it may be time for your
CAMBRA evaluation. Call Dr. Cruz in Laguna Niguel to schedule your
CAMBRA evaluation today.
Mark A Cruz graduated from the UCLA School of Dentistry in 1986 and started a dental practice in Monarch Beach, CA upon graduation. He has lectured nationally and internationally and is a member of various dental organizations. He was a part-time lecturer at UCLA and a member of the faculty group practice and was past assistant director of the UCLA Center for Esthetic Dentistry. He has served on the National Institute of Health/NIDCR (National Institute of Dental & Craniofacial Research) Grant review Committee in Washington D.C. as well as on the editorial board for the Journal of Evidence-Based Dental Practice (Elsevier) and is currently serving on the DSMB (data safety management board) for the NPBRN (national practice-based research network.