“Your child has a cavity.” These are words that no parent—or child—wants to hear. The treatment for a breakdown and decay of tooth enamel is invasive and frightening for both parents and children. Yet, according the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, cavities are among the most common chronic disease in children, affecting one in five children aged 5 to 11 and one in seven adolescents aged 12 to 19. Luckily, this is a preventable disease with brushing, flossing, and regular visits to your dental professional who now has a new non-invasive intervention to help prevent and, in some cases, heal tooth decay and cavities.
No needles. No drilling. No tears.
Silver Diamine Fluoride, or SDF, is a simple FDA-approved brush-on treatment that can be applied in minutes. Clinical studies have shown SDF treatment to halt the progression of 81% of active cavities in children. With reapplication, this number jumps to 90%. What’s more, SDF is up to 70% effective in the prevention of new cavities, can effectively prevent 25-70% of new cavities, outperforming the 35% efficacy of fluoride varnishes applied 3-4 times per year alone.
SDF’s effectiveness in slowing down, and even stopping, dental decay is thanks to its primary constituents: fluoride and silver. Fluoride is relied on for its ability in preventing cavities while promoting tooth enamel remineralization. Alone however, fluoride is limited in its ability to restore decay in the deeper tooth layers. Silver and its antimicrobial properties, on the other hand, can penetrate the underlying layer of dentin to help kill the bacteria that causes decay. Together, these compounds form a strong, protective layer that not only stops the progression of cavities but prevents the development of new ones as well. It can even help stop sensitivity in those areas.
- What are the side effects? There are no known physical side effects, however, it is not recommended for anyone who has mouth sores or is allergic to silver. SDF will stain areas of decay. Healthy enamel will not be affected, but damaged areas will be colored by the protective SDF coating.
- Who is SDF appropriate for? The good news is it is not just for children! Anyone who currently has existing decay, deep pits and fissures, food traps, and tooth sensitivity is a candidate for SDF. Even those who experience high anxiety, nervousness, or have special needs can benefit from this non-invasive treatment.
- How does it work? The process is painless and relaxed. During a regular visit, your child’s teeth will be cleaned thoroughly. SDF is then applied to area(s) of concern using a special brush or floss. These areas include high-risk watch spots in addition to existing unfilled cavities. In about a minute, the process is complete. Your child may even eat and drink following the application. Reapplication during future dental visits may be necessary. It is that simple!
- Where can I get SDF? At Healthy Smiles, we specialize in calm and relaxed dental treatments and we are excited to be able to offer this non-invasive treatment to our patients, both old and new. We take the time to understand and address all your specific needs and concerns to help you get your healthiest smile. Call us today to talk about SDF and schedule appointment.
Book Your Appointment Now! |
 | Chrisy is a dedicated, energetic, detailed-oriented Registered Dental Hygienist with 19 years of experience providing gentle and thorough dental treatment. Focused on exceptional patient comfort and care in oral hygiene treatment and emphasis on individualized preventative care management. Visit healthysmilesconifer.com for more information or call (303) 838-7003 to book an appointment now! |
Share the Love - Be sure you tell them Macaroni Kid sent you... and tell all your friends!
Macaroni Kid Evergreen, Bailey, Conifer is a free local calendar, weekly e-newsletter and website focused on fun family events and information in the Foothills. We gather all kinds of local family events and activities each week, and add useful information about classes, family-focused local businesses, book and product reviews, recipes, crafts, school and camp guides and more. We proudly serve families in Evergreen, Bailey, Conifer, Georgetown, Idaho Springs, Morrison and all the places in between!
Quick links to learn more about our community:
 |  |  | ||
 |  |  |
