New Discoveries in Dental Care – Scientists recognize that dental decay is caused by a bacterial infection in the biofilm (plaque) on the teeth. The proper medical/dental term for this bacterial infection is called caries.  CariFree gives us the power to test for and treat the oral bacterial infection with one simple system.

What is a biofilm infection

All teeth have a thin film that houses various microscopic bacteria called a biofilm. An infected oral biofilm occurs when the bacterial population shifts from normal oral bacteria to the acid producing bacteria (caries producing) that are known to cause dental decay. The standard of care calls for the identification of an excessive load of cariogenic bacteria on the teeth and the administration of a treatment plan that includes treating the cariogenic bacteria. This is a paradigm shift from simply filling cavities to a model of prevention.

Promote healthy teeth — stop filling cavities

CariFree employs advanced infection testing and treatment technology to promote long term dental health, instead of simply treating symptoms by filling cavities.  How is it possible? The advanced CariFree System measures the magnitude of harmful bacteria on the teeth. If harmful decay-causing bacteria are identified, the CariFree treatment plan would be prescribed for the patient.

You might be interested to know that:

Good oral hygiene may not stop cavities. Even if a patient brushes, flosses, and visits the dentist regularly, harmful levels of the decay-causing bacteria may still be present.

A bacterial infection on your teeth can also be transmitted to others. Studies show that harmful decay causing bacteria can be transmitted to other members of the household.

If the bacterial infection is left untreated... Progressive steps of decay that may occur are.... Creation of cavities, leading to...crowns, bridges, and root canals, ultimately leading to...tooth loss...

CariFree embraces the new science

The CariFree system was specifically developed to embrace the new science of testing for and treating dental bacterial infection. Here is how the CariFree System works:

CariScreen; an easy 1 minute test using a simple cotton swab to gather a specimen from two of your teeth.

The quick and easy CariScreen test determines your level of decay-causing bacteria. It takes only one minute to determine if you are at a low, moderate, or high risk of developing cavities in the future.  Since risk factors change over time, it is recommended that you take the CariScreen test once per year.  For the most accurate test results, do not eat or brush your teeth for at least one hour prior to the test.

For test results showing moderate to high levels of infection, an additional test (much like a throat culture) is done to give a more accurate diagnosis.

CariFree easy to use treatment program

Treatment consists of using a series of CariFree antibacterial mouth rinses to reduce the bacterial levels on your teeth, giving you a better chance of avoiding future dental decay. It’s that simple.  

There are two types of rinses:

CariFree Treatment Rinse – A two-part treatment rinse that kills the harmful destructive bacteria on your teeth. It has an elevated pH that is designed to offset the acidic condition of the infection.

CariFree Maintenance Rinse – Designed to create an environment in your mouth which prevents the destructive bacteria from re-establishing itself. It also has an elevated pH which promotes a healthy oral environment.