Cavities don’t have to be a part of your life. With CariFree, cavities are 100% preventable, along with most bacterial infections. James B. Polley, DDS in Las Vegas, can help you prevent cavities more effectively than just brushing, flossing, and dental cleanings alone by offering a treatment known as CariFree. CariFree is a xylitol-based topical treatment designed to prevent cavities before they even form. This not only saves you discomfort, time, and money but also preserves your natural tooth structure.

If cavities continue to appear despite your best efforts, supplementing your routine oral hygiene with CariFree can help significantly reduce the number of cavities. Contact James B. Polley, DDS, in Las Vegas to schedule a consultation and learn if CariFree is right for you call us at (702) 873-0324.

What Are Cavities?

Cavities occur when your mouth becomes too acidic, allowing bacteria to form. While regular brushing and flossing usually remove bacteria, it’s not always possible to reach every crevice of your teeth. Over time, bacteria build up and secrete harmful acids, which damage the enamel. This process eventually leads to a cavity.

If left untreated, bacteria can transform a simple cavity into a full-fledged tooth infection. Without treatment, more extensive care may become necessary, and in some cases, tooth extraction could be required. The good news is that early detection and treatment of cavities can prevent the need for more invasive procedures.

  • Dental Fillings: For small to medium-sized cavities, the decayed part of your tooth is removed and replaced with a durable filling, such as composite resin or amalgam.
  • Dental Crowns: If the decay is extensive, a crown may be used to cover and restore the tooth’s strength and appearance.
  • Dental Inlays & Onlays: For cavities that are too large for a filling but don’t require a full crown, custom inlays or onlays can be crafted to restore the tooth.
  • Tooth Extraction: In rare cases, if the tooth is too damaged, extraction may be necessary. Afterward, a dental implant or bridge can be used to replace the missing tooth.

Preventing cavities before they occur is far less painful and costly than dealing with these procedures later on.

A Modern Approach to Cavity Prevention

At Dr. Polley’s Las Vegas office, we believe that prevention is always better than treatment. Instead of waiting for cavities to form and then filling them, we proactively treat the cause. Dr. Polley begins with a “caries risk assessment” to identify the causes of your cavities and then recommends the appropriate preventive treatment to maintain your smile.

How Does CariFree Prevent Cavities?

CariFree prevents cavities in four key ways:

  • Neutralizes the pH levels in your mouth to reduce acidity.
  • Limits bacterial aminos that contribute to tooth decay.
  • Penetrates bacteria to eliminate harmful microorganisms.
  • Strengthens tooth enamel by combining fluoride with calcium phosphate, the building block of healthy teeth.

With these strategies, CariFree helps prevent most cavities before they even start to form.

CariFree offers a more advanced approach than regular fluoride treatments by not only remineralizing teeth but also neutralizing the mouth’s pH and reducing harmful bacteria. While fluoride helps strengthen enamel, CariFree helps prevent cavities from forming in the first place.

Yes, CariFree is safe for people with sensitive teeth. The product is designed to be gentle yet effective in preventing cavities, and it can be used alongside other treatments for sensitivity to provide a comprehensive approach to oral health.

CariFree comes in several forms, including toothpaste, mouthwash, and chewing gum. Each option allows you to incorporate cavity prevention into your daily routine in a way that fits your lifestyle.

Yes, CariFree is effective for both children and adults. It can be particularly beneficial for children who are more prone to cavities due to diet or difficulty with brushing and flossing.

Many patients begin to see results within a few weeks of using CariFree products regularly. Long-term use helps to build a protective barrier against future cavities and enhances overall oral health.

A caries risk assessment is a diagnostic tool used by your dentist to evaluate your risk for developing cavities. Dr. Polley uses this assessment to tailor a personalized treatment plan, including CariFree, to help prevent cavities based on your individual needs.

No, CariFree is a supplement to regular oral hygiene. It enhances the effects of brushing and flossing by targeting harmful bacteria and neutralizing acids, but it should be used in combination with your usual brushing and flossing routine for the best results.

While CariFree is primarily focused on preventing cavities, it can also support overall oral health by reducing harmful bacteria, which may help prevent further issues such as gum disease. However, it’s best used in conjunction with other treatments for gum health.

Yes, CariFree is designed to be used long-term for ongoing cavity prevention. By consistently using CariFree products, you can significantly reduce your risk of cavities, maintaining healthy teeth throughout your life.

CariFree: A Convenient Solution for Everyone

When it comes to prevention, convenience is key. Dr. Polley has successfully prescribed CariFree to countless patients, both children and adults, with products like toothpaste, mouthwash, and chewing gum. No matter your lifestyle, there’s a CariFree product to suit your needs. Let Dr. Polley help you choose the right option for you.

Visit our Las Vegas dental office to learn more about CariFree and other cavity prevention options. Call (702) 873-0324 to schedule your next appointment today.

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