The Use Of Stannous Fluoride

In a study of orthodontic practices across the country, it has been found that well over 20% of orthodontic patients have some type of decalcification of their teeth that can be seen after their braces have been removed. Decalcification is a permanent white or yellow scarring of the teeth. It is not caused by braces, but by the dental plaque that is left on the teeth due to improper or infrequent brushing. The bacteria in the plaque produce acid which begins to eat through the enamel of the teeth. Because the braces give plaque more areas to accumulate, people with braces are more prone to have decalcified areas on their teeth.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

FLUORIDE FACTS (from the American Dental Hygiene Association)

Orthodontic patients who pay meticulous attention to keeping their teeth clean seldom get decalcified areas on their teeth. Unfortunately, it has been shown over and over again that patients in orthodontic practices across the country, even with the best intentions, do not keep their teeth as clean as they should.

Research has shown that properly used 0.4% stannous fluoride reduced decalcification from well over 20% to under 2%. This is a ten-fold reduction in the chance of having scars on a patient's teeth. At bedtime, the teeth are cleaned with a toothbrush, a a small amount of the stannous fluoride rinsed on the teeth, spitting out the excess. Avoid rinsing or eating after the application because it is desirable to have the fluoride stay on the teeth overnight providing protection during sleep when the cleansing action of saliva slows down.

This stannous fluoride are now available "over-the-counter" in many forms.

Please use the fluoride rinse or gel, "it's a good thing".