Year : 2016

Volume : Volume 6

Issue : Issue 3

Address for correspondence :
Dr. Brij Kumar.
brij220787@gmail.com

Abstract

Background:  Traditional management of dental caries has focused primarily on treatment via the excision of diseased tissues and sub-sequent restoration of the defect. Mechanical tooth preparation is a destructive and irreversible method of removing the natural dental tissues, and while dental materials have improved significantly in recent decades (in many cases, with properties that closely resemble those of natural dental tissues), they are artificial. Dental restorations and even implants cannot replace natural teeth completely. A comprehensive treatment plan for dental caries should include eliminating cariogenic bacteria, reducing plaque acidogenicity, enhancing tooth remineralization, and repairing the damaged teeth. Contemporary caries management includes dietary analysis and advice, oral hygiene instruction, placement of fissure sealants, and the use of fluoride therapy, xylitol chewing gum, and antimicrobial agents such as chlorhexidine. Various forms of fluoride therapy are used to prevent and sometimes to arrest caries, although the effects of fluoride therapy are related to the chemical composition of the fluoride product and the method used to apply the material to the tooth surface.

Keywords: Dental Caries, Fluoride, Fluoride Rinses, Salt Fluoridation, School Water Fluoridation.