Expert: Jeff Dalin DDS - 2/27/2006

Question
Hello! Question. Im a healthy 38 yr old male. I go to the denstist every 6 months for check up and and cleaning. Problem is I keep getting these cavities.
I have a total of ten fillings in my mouth.

I brush twice a day, floss once a day, use mouthwash, and use a flouride rinse at night.

Couple of things:
I looked at my diet....I am semi-vegetarian(meaning I eat many whole grains and very little meat) I do eat fruits, breads, and vegetables. I eat very little candy, cakes, and fruit juices. Could this whole grain diet cause the decay?

I also looked at genetics. I talked to my parents and they all have fillings in their teeth but nobody has lost their teeth in our family.

So what could be causing all these fillings? I dont want to lose my teeth.

Also, whats the difference between Sodium Monofluorophosphate and Sodium Flouride?

Todd

Answer
Todd,
Very good questions here.
First off, just because you are getting a few fillings does not mean you are going to lose your teeth. So relax there.

Now as far as why are you needing these? This is complex question. There is definitely genetics involved. Some people eat candy galore, never go to the dentist, never brush and do not floss and do not get cavities. Others brush, floss, never eat candy and get cavities. There are things in the saliva that help stop cavities: buffers, etc. This is where genetics come in.

So do not worry. Eat well and brush and floss and visit your dentist regularly. If you are still being told you need a lot of fillings, maybe get a second opinion. You can also do fluoride rinses to help. The two fluorides you mentioned are very similar chemically and work in the same manner.

Good luck

Jeff Dalin, DDS