Tooth Decay Prevention

At the office of Dr. Christian Johnson DMD, we offer all the dental services your family needs to achieve and maintain healthy and attractive smiles. As a dental practice that provides preventative dentistry services to those in and around Waldorf and Brandywine, MD, we offer numerous dental procedures to help our patients keep their teeth as healthy as possible. One of the most common problems we see in patients of all ages is tooth decay. 

How Tooth Decay Develops

Tooth decay is a progressive disease that occurs when the bacteria in your mouth interacts with the sugars consumed in your diet. The sugar triggers a reaction in the bacteria, which prompts the bacteria to produce harmful acids. These acids break down the minerals in teeth, causing tooth decay.

If you have tooth decay, our dentist Dr. Johnson can remove the decay and fill your tooth using any one of a number of filling materials he offers, or he can cover the tooth with a crown. But to avoid needing tooth decay treatment, you should visit our Waldorf office every six months for routine checkups, eat a healthy diet, practice good oral hygiene, and make sure you’re getting enough fluoride.

Preventing Tooth Decay

Diet Control

Just like the rest of your body, your teeth, jawbones and soft tissues of your mouth all require a healthy, well-balanced diet. One of the best ways to cut your risk for developing tooth decay is to eat a variety of foods from the five main food groups. You also should limit the number of sugary and starchy foods you consume like cookies, crackers and chips. When you want a snack, reach for something healthier like fresh vegetables or low fat cheeses and yogurt which are teeth-strengthening foods.

Dental Sealants

Dental sealants are protective, thin coatings that are applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth to help prevent tooth decay from developing. These sealants seep deep into the natural fissures and pits on the teeth where bacteria gathers, which helps prevent the decay process from starting. Dr. Johnson can apply sealants to the back teeth, molars, premolars or any teeth which are prone to decay. Dental sealants last for several years, but they do need to be checked periodically, which is something that can be done during your regular visits to our dental office.

Fluoride Treatment

Fluoride is a naturally-occurring mineral that strengthens teeth, making them more resistant to decay. Fluoride can even reverse small cavities that are starting to form. The tap water you drink most likely contains ample amounts of fluoride to keep your teeth strong. You can also get the fluoride you need by purchasing mouthwashes and toothpastes which contain fluoride. If you’re unsure if you’re getting enough fluoride to protect your teeth, we can evaluate the fluoride levels in your primary source of drinking water and recommend fluoride treatment if necessary.

Contact Us For General Dentistry In Waldorf, MD

At the office of Dr. Christian Johnson, we’re proud to offer a wide range of dental services to patients of all ages living in Waldorf, Brandywine, La Plata, Charlotte Hall, Mechanicsville, and the surrounding areas. Whether you’re looking for a provider of general dentistry near Brandywine, MD to help your children maintain good oral health or you’re in need of tooth decay prevention for yourself, we encourage you to request an appointment with us today! Contact us for premier dentistry in your area.