Dental decay is one of the most prevalent chronic diseases worldwide, especially among young children due to poor oral hygiene, and unhealthy eating habits. Decay or caries can be easily treated through fillings. However, this may compromise the tooth structure since it may require drilling the tooth for prepping it to receive an appropriate dental cement.
Currently, the risk of dental caries can be significantly reduced through water fluoridation and fluoride-containing oral products. Silver diamine fluoride (SDF) offered by the orthodontist in Fullerton, CA is a great alternative to dental fillings to fight tooth decay. Let us delve into the realm of SDF to help you determine its potency in improving oral health.
A comprehensive exploration of silver diamine fluoride (SDF)
Silver diamine fluoride (SDF) is a liquid substance that helps to prevent the formation, growth, and spread of tooth cavities (caries). It is an FDA (Food and Drug Administration) approved dental product that has been used since 2014.
It is an antibiotic solution that consists of the following:
- Silver: Kills bacteria and strengthens your dentin (protective layer of the tooth).
- Fluoride: Helps in the remineralization of your tooth.
- Water: Provides a liquid base for the mixture
- Ammonia: Maintains the concentration of the solution.
Discovering the benefits of SDF
Silver diamine fluoride (SDF) is becoming popular due to the following benefits:
- It is the most comfortable alternative to drilling cavities
- It preserves most of the natural tooth structure
- It is painless and non-invasive
- The procedure for application is safe, quick, and simple
- It can also be used for adults to reduce tooth sensitivity
- Helpful for those who are over-sensitive to dental instruments, thus reducing dental anxiety
- SDF is relatively inexpensive
Application of silver diamine fluoride
The application of SDF is a non-invasive procedure, involving the following steps:
- The dentist will first clean, and rinse the tooth surface to remove any debris or plaque present over it.
- A cotton pad or gauze will be placed near your child’s affected tooth to keep the area dry. A vacuum suction tool will be used to control moisture.
- The dentist will apply the SDF solution directly to the tooth surface with a micro brush.
- Light curing will be used to make sure SDF sinks deeper into the tooth and hardens.
- Your child will be advised to refrain from eating or drinking for at least an hour after the SDF treatment.
Wrapping up
In recent years, significant advancements in science have provided patients with non-invasive treatment options as alternatives to traditional, invasive methods such as teeth drilling. Among these alternatives, silver diamine fluoride has emerged as a highly effective solution for treating dental caries, delivering impressive results and high levels of patient satisfaction.
