Some factors that may increase a person’s risk of developing caries include the following:
Poor oral hygiene
Active caries
Eating disorders
Drug or alcohol abuse
Lack of regular professional dental care
Active orthodontic treatment combined with poor oral hygiene
High levels of caries-causing bacteria in the mouth
Exposed root surfaces of teeth
Decreased salivary flow, resulting in dry mouth
Poor diet
Existing restorations (fillings)
Tooth enamel defects
Undergoing head and neck radiation therapy.
Although each patient's case is different, Dr. Ebrahimi DDS recommends professional fluoride treatment every 4 to 6 months for patients who are in high risk of developing tooth decay. Fluoride treatment can also be done at home on a daily bases using toothpaste with fluoride and/or fluoride rinses to prevent tooth decay.
