Unfortunately, it is very difficult to obtain a caries vaccine since tooth decay occurs under the influence of various factors such as the structure of the tooth, the type of microbes in the mouth, nutrition or the structure of the saliva. However, the structure of the tooth can be strengthened by various methods.
Which is the most effective substance used to strengthen tooth structure?
Today, the substances most known to be effective in strengthening tooth structure are “fluoride” compounds. When applied during the period when teeth are developing or after the teeth appear in the mouth, fluoride compounds enter the structure of the tooth and provide a more resistant structure against decay.
How can fluorine compounds be used?
The anti-caries effect of fluoride compounds occurs in four main ways;
By adding a certain amount of fluoride compounds to drinking water (this is a method that must be done by special methods and trained personnel!)
By giving fluoride tablets, which are ready-made in the market, to the child (It must be given under the supervision of a physician, as excessive doses will be harmful!)
By taking advantage of the effect of fluoride compounds added to toothpaste or mouthwashes
In the form of a dentist applying special gel-shaped fluoride compounds onto the teeth in offices.
Among these practices, the easiest method to apply is brushing your teeth morning and evening with a fluoride toothpaste starting from the age of 3 and using a fluoride mouthwash after the age of 6. Other applications are not yet widely used in our country.
Are fluorine compounds harmful to the body?
Fluoride is an essential element for the body. However, if taken too much, it may change the color of the teeth or cause deformations in the bones. For this reason, applications other than toothpaste and mouthwash should be done under the supervision of a physician.
Is it possible to prevent tooth decay by other means?
Another method used to prevent tooth decay is to cover the recesses on the chewing surfaces of the teeth (These recesses are called fissures) with substances called fissure sealants by the dentist. Since the germs or food residues in the mouth mostly settle in these recessed areas of the teeth, by covering the fissures, the retention of germs and food is prevented and the formation of caries is prevented. Fissure sealants are very successful applications in preventing tooth decay.