Although you may be proactive in caring for your smile at home, you may still be susceptible to developing cavities. Pacific Dental Associates utilizes the CAMBRA protocol to assess your susceptibility for caries and develop a management plan based on your age and the severity of risk.
What is the CAMBRA Protocol?
CAMBRA stands for caries management by risk assessment. This protocol is an evidence-based approach in the early prevention and treatment of cavities. Studies have found that, as we age, our smiles become more susceptible to developing cavities. CAMBRA allows dentists and hygienists to determine your range of vulnerability and develop a management plan to ensure teeth and well protected and strengthened.
The process begins at a routine cleaning or during a new patient examination. We identify your cavities risk by applying plaque disclosing agents. This topical treatment develops different colors, as follows, to determine level of susceptibility:
Dark Purple – presence of plaque of 48 hours or longer
Bright Pink – presence of plaque for less than 48 hours
Light Blue – presence of acid-producing bacteria, predisposing teeth to caries
Depending on the amount these colors in the smile, your caries risk can range from low, moderate, high, or extreme. This visible representation of plaque left in the smile, even after preparing for a visits with the dentist, can assist in the enhancement of at home care and the importance of dental visits. Your dentists will develop a preventive plan and may recommend fluoride treatments and new products for non-invasive management of plaque.
What Can You Do At Home?
With the assistance of your dentist and hygienist, the best ways to protect your smile at home are determined. The CAMBRA protocol provides a list of management and clinical guidelines for each category of risk and each age. In addition to the recommendation of frequent radiographs, saliva testing, fluoride use, and using antibacterial and xylitol (teeth-safe sugar) products, we recommend:
For Young patients (0-5)
- Sealants
- Routine exams and check-ups
- Self-management goals and guidance on at-home care
For patients from 5 up to Adults
- Sealants
- pH control
- Calcium Phosphate Topical Supplements
Contact our San Francisco Dentists Today!
At Pacific Dental Associates, we are dedicated to our patients’ oral health and happiness. We apply the CAMBRA protocol to guide our patients toward healthier smiles. For more information about our, examinations, and preventive treatments, contact us today for an appointment!