Prevent Cavities and Improve Tooth Structure with CariFree

Some people have all the luck. Why is it that some people with poor oral hygiene live a cavity-free existence while others with impeccable brushing and flossing habits don’t? And it isn’t a matter of genetics either. Two people in the same family can have entirely different “luck” when it comes to cavities.

Good oral health goes well beyond brushing twice a day and flossing. Cavities, also known as dental caries, are the most widespread infectious disease in humans, affecting 97 percent of people. A bacterial imbalance in the mouth causes cavities. Brushing and flossing reduce bacteria but don’t eliminate it.

So why do some people fare better than others in the dental health arena? Quite simply, it comes down to the pH level inside their mouth. A pH of lower than 5.5 can lead to acid demineralization of the teeth. A loss of minerals isn’t good in the bones, and it isn’t good in the teeth either. Other factors can also contribute to one’s risk factor for developing cavities. These factors include dietary habits, family history, acidity levels, and oral hygiene. 

While you can control what you eat, how frequently (and what) you drink, and how well and often you brush and floss your teeth, it is a lot harder to control the pH in your mouth. Thankfully, there is now a treatment available for helping prevent cavities. It is called CariFree, and it is available at Mill Point Dental in Bend. 

What is CariFree?

CariFree is a clinically proven tooth decay prevention system. CariFree goes well beyond brushing and flossing. This is because CariFree addresses the pH levels in the mouth. With proper pH levels, remineralization of the teeth is possible. This means that you can replenish lost minerals in the tooth structure, resulting in stronger and healthier teeth that have less susceptibility to cavities. 

How does CariFree work? 

CariFree is a system of products that, when used together, create a blueprint for remineralization. This system includes:

• pH Neutralization – supports healthy bacteria growth and reduces the growth and acid production of cavity-causing bacteria. 
• Fluoride – Inhibits acid production and assists in the remineralization process.
• Xylitol – Reduces the growth and acid production of cavity-causing bacteria.
• Nano Hydroxyapatite – Demineralized enamel is composed of hydroxyapatite, a naturally occurring form of calcium. Replenishing lost hydroxyapatite addresses early mineral loss in the teeth by strengthening the enamel. 
• Antibacterial – Reduces the total bacteria levels in the mouth. 

If you would like to learn more about CariFree and whether it can help you, schedule an appointment with Dr. Mike Longlet or Dr. Chelsea Longlet. During the appointment, they will perform a CariScreen oral swab test to determine your risk factor for developing cavities in the future. If you are, they will talk with you about the CariFree system. Together, you can develop a plan to improve your oral health for life.