I have problems with two teeth that my dentist says are caused by bacteria that gets in the hard to reach places. He prescribed a rinse with an antibiotic and it helped but it has run out. How do I keep the areas bacteria free for the long run?
2006-07-16 10:35:58 · 15 answers · asked by polin001 1 in Health ➔ Dental
Did the dentist prescribe you a Chlorhexadine rinse? If that is the case, you are more concerned with the bacteria that causes periodontal disease. Depending on the area you are trying to reach, interproximal brushes work well, as well as a Water Pik.
You need to disrupt the bacteria as often as possible, even if you aren't able to remove it completely. The bacteria colonies into complex layers, the worst layers are the ones that form later. So if you are able to disrupt the bacteria, it has to keep colonizing the first few layers and wont be able to get to the point where the really bad bacteria collects. Does that make sense? This is why we recommend daily flossing and brushing 2-3 times a day, but some people need to disrupt the bacteria even more often. Some do fine with less, but it sounds like you are one of the unlucky people and need to disrupt the bacteria as often as you can.
You can rinse with the Crest rinse, as this helps to kill bacteria and doesn't contain alcohol like Listerine. But any rinse does not go far below the top of the gum tissue (if you have pocketing or deep pockets, it wont reach).
Best way to keep the areas clean is to brush and floss as often as you can, and use extras like the Water Pik and rinses.
2006-07-16 11:30:30 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Your dentist might not be aware that Periostat recently became generic, so he/she can prescribe doxycycline 20mg bid for 9 months to give you some long-term effects, and it is much cheaper for you than it used to be.
This is NOT antibacterial, but rather a method for suppressing collagenase production. If it's severe, then a combination therapy along with scaling and root planing that involves 2 separate antibiotics might be the best choice. Unfortunately, one of the antibiotics, metronidazole, can't be taken while drinking alcohol.
2006-07-16 23:31:44 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
You want a mouthwash that kills bacteria. I know that's what Listerine is supposed to do, but I'm not sure it works. What I use that my dentist tells me is working is a tea tree oil mouthwash. I have to buy it at the health food store, but it's great.
2006-07-16 21:59:26 · answer #3 · answered by Bobbie 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Mouthwash - like listerine should help as well. Also rinsing with water if you can't brush after you eat during the day.
2006-07-16 17:37:53 · answer #4 · answered by dolphinchick 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Mouthwash, Crest Pro-health is better than Listerine.
2006-07-16 17:39:37 · answer #5 · answered by CaptWags 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
hey i like your question and i think u should use mouthwash twice a day and if your mouthstings u can also my tip that is chew mint leave (few ) at morning u ll feel bit bitter but it will keep your mouth fresh all the day really try it out it works rather MOUTHWASH is best
2006-07-16 17:41:28 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
From what I understand, toothpastes like Colgate Total are supposed to help fight bacteria in your mouth all day.
2006-07-16 17:39:06 · answer #7 · answered by K.C. W 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
All Of The Above=
2006-07-16 17:39:04 · answer #8 · answered by mks 7-15-02 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
listerine helps... a few times a day. Also try the "Brushups"... these new slips you put on your finger to wipe your teeth when your on the go.
2006-07-16 17:38:24 · answer #9 · answered by kitkool 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Eat as many alkaline foods as possible and avoid acidic foods. Eat lots of fruit. Fruit clean your teeth and mouth.
2006-07-16 17:38:14 · answer #10 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋