The search for new weapons against tooth decay is one that is constantly ongoing. Every year thousands of hours of research go into finding new technologies and treatments. While some of his research is focused on less common oral health concerns, tooth decay is a major focus in every case. Every so often, this research results in a new treatment that can utterly change the way dental health is protected. One of those discoveries was in silver diamine fluoride. While fluoride has been a common tool dentists use in slowing or preventing tooth decay, SDF takes this protection to the next level.
Introducing SDF – The New Fluoride That Can Save Teeth
The first thing to know about silver diamine fluoride is that it isn’t really a ‘new’ treatment for teeth. It’s been in use all over the world for decades. However, it recently passed the approval of the FDA in the United States. SDF comes in liquid form and can be directly applied to a cavity using a special form of floss of a small toothbrush. It takes seconds to apply and serves to immediately halt the progression of cavities in 8 out of 10 patients. While increasingly available, it isn’t an option offered by all dental practitioners. For those that do, it’s an incredibly successful and cost-effective solution for all involved.
Silver Diamine Fluoride is a compound made of three elements that combine to provide an effective treatment for cavities. It does have the small limitation of only working in cavities that are relatively shallow, which makes seeing your dentist twice a year all the more important. This substance retains fluorides’ ability to strengthen your teeth against decay and to aid in the remineralization of enamel. It accomplished this while remaining incredibly inexpensive, coming in at less than $1 a treatment.
What’s even better than a nearly fool-proof weapon against tooth decay? A tool that comes with almost no notable side effects. The most frequently encountered side-effect is the substance turning the treated area permanently black. While this can make adult patients hesitate to accept its use to treat their cavities, it’s a perfect solution for younger patients. Patients who have yet to develop their adult teeth are able to maintain a perfect smile without any permanent visual defects.
This fact makes it a very popular choice for parents with children who are cavity prone. While it does have a temporary aesthetic drawback for these children, the benefits are immense. The tooth decay is instantly stopped, and their natural teeth remain to help their adult teeth come in correctly. It’s a win-win for everyone.
Ready To Talk To Your Dentist About SDF?
An important consideration when opting for SDF is that it can serve as an effective stop-gap. While it can leave that permanent black stain, it halts tooth decay in its tracks. This allows you to form a plan with your dentist for a more permanent restoration. If you want to know if SDF can help you prevent tooth decay while preparing for a smile makeover, speak to your dentist today!
