If you’re someone who dreads visiting the dentist, this news may bring a smile to your face. A study by the University of Sydney has revealed that tooth decay can be stopped, reversed, and prevented without the need for the traditional, often painful, ‘drill and fill’ method that has been a staple of dental care for decades.
The study, led by Associate Professor Wendell Evans of the University of Sydney, found that tooth decay is not always progressive and develops more slowly than previously believed. In fact, it takes an average of four to eight years for decay to progress from the tooth’s outer layer (enamel) to the inner layer (dentine). This means there’s plenty of time for decay to be detected and treated before it becomes a cavity and requires a filling.
Because of these findings, Professor Evans and his team developed the Caries Management System (CMS) – a set of protocols that cover the assessment of decay risk, the interpretation of dental X-rays, and specific treatment of early decay (decay that is not yet a cavity).
The CMS ‘no-drill’ treatment involves four aspects:
- Application of high concentration fluoride varnish by dentists to the sites of early decay: Dentists can apply a high concentration fluoride varnish directly to the areas of early decay, which helps to strengthen and protect the tooth enamel, effectively preventing the need for a filling.
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Attention to home tooth brushing skills: Proper oral hygiene is essential in preventing tooth decay and cavities. CMS treatment requires patients to pay close attention to their home tooth brushing skills, ensuring they are correctly cleaning all surfaces of their teeth and removing plaque effectively.
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Restriction of between-meal snacks and beverages containing added sugar: Consuming sugary treats and beverages in between meals increases the risk of developing tooth decay. One crucial aspect of the CMS treatment is limiting the intake of these harmful snacks and drinks and promoting a healthier diet.
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Risk-specific monitoring: This involves regular dental check-ups and appropriate care tailored to the individual’s specific risk factors for tooth decay. By closely monitoring these risk factors, dentists can identify and treat early decay, preventing the need for more invasive procedures.
CMS was initially tested on high-risk patients at Westmead Hospital in Australia, with impressive results. The study showed that early decay could be stopped and reversed, and the need for drilling and filling was significantly reduced. Professor Evans explained that a tooth should only be drilled and filled where a cavity is already evident.
Following the success of the initial trial, the CMS treatment was tested in general dental practices in New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory. The Monitor Practice Program (MPP) confirmed that after seven years, decay risk was substantially reduced among the CMS patients, and their need for fillings was reduced by 30 to 50 percent compared to the control group.
“The reduced decay risk and reduced need for fillings was understandably welcomed by patients,” Professor Evans said. “However, patients play an important role in their treatment. This treatment will need a partnership between dentists and patients to be most successful.”
While it remains to be seen if American dentists will adopt this new protocol, it’s definitely something worth discussing with your dentist at your next appointment. By embracing a preventive care approach like the Caries Management System, you may be able to avoid the dreaded drill and fill and enjoy a healthier, happier smile.
