Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF) is a stronger and more specifically placed fluoride application than the traditional fluoride varnish. SDF strengthens the tooth material by increasing its hardness, making it more resistant to the cavities, and continues to kill the cavity causing bacteria long after it has been applied. It is not a silver-bullet, but can greatly reduce the need for definitive restorative treatment, and decreases the growing rate of the cavities in order for us to be able to save teeth that we were previously unable to if treatment could not be rendered quickly due to inability of the child to cooperate or the time between appointments. The only down side of this medicine is that it will stain affected tooth areas black. This allows us to confirm that the bacteria are present in this area, and let’s us know that the medicine is working. It does not stain healthy tooth structure, only tooth structure that has began the process of creating a cavity. These areas can be restored later to appear as normal tooth, or they can be completely removed
Sealants are a simple and effective way to protect your child’s teeth from decay. They are a plastic coating that is applied to the grooves and pits on the chewing surfaces of the back teeth (molars and premolars). These areas are hard to clean and are more susceptible to decay, so sealants act as a barrier, preventing plaque and food from getting trapped in these areas. Sealants can last for several years and are a great way to protect your child’s teeth, especially as they are developing and learning to brush and floss properly.
