• Exposed root surfaces
• Restorations with overhangs , open margins , or open contacts
• Dental / orthodontic appliances
• Salivary flow and dry mouth
Reduced Salivary Flow and Dry Mouth / Xerostomia
Providing information to patients on the range of medications that can cause dry mouth should include the following : allergy medications , antihistamines , antianxiety drugs , and high-blood pressure drugs . When medications reduce the ability of saliva to wash food particles away from teeth , the result is acids not being neutralized . 6 Patients should be aware that head and neck radiation treatments also impact salivary gland function .
Overview of Fluoride Guidelines
It has been shown that combining various modalities of fluoride delivery for daily multiple low-dose exposures is the most effective way to prevent , control , and reverse early dental caries . 9 Caries risk assessment and clinical examination enables clinicians to determine if a patient requires fluoride supplementation and in what form or combination — professionally applied ; both over-the-counter ( OTC ) toothpaste and prescription-strength toothpaste ; OTC toothpaste and prescription mouthwash ; or OTC toothpaste and OTC mouthwash .
The American Dental Association ( ADA ) is expected to release updated fluoride guidelines . In 2013 , the ADA panel of experts recommended that dentists use their judgement , based on patients ’ needs and
Reinforcing the Importance of Fluoride Use for Lifelong Dental Health
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