While all of us at LPD strive to help keep kids cavity free, today’s lifestyle presents certain challenges in meeting this goal. As life gets busier we tend to rely on conveniences and short cuts. Unfortunately both of these factors can result in the development of cavities. Snacks that are convenient, such as chips, crackers, granola bars, and energy drinks significantly raise the risk of developing cavities. Shortcuts taken in self-care also contribute to the development of cavities and periodontal (gum) disease.
When one of our patients presents with cavities we take a deep dive into how and why the cavities developed. We review diet and oral hygiene instruction. We may even recommend saliva testing to further investigate the causes. If reversal of the cavities is not a viable option, we will recommend conservative, composite (tooth-colored) fillings. Composite fillings have largely replaced the silver (amalgam) fillings of the past.
