When you have weakened enamel that could become a cavity, we can offer a unique treatment to help stop the progress of the decay, protecting your smile. Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF) can be applied in one visit and safeguard your smile! In today’s blog, your Celina, TX, dentist talks about SDF.
The Causes and Warning Signs of Tooth Decay
Each of our teeth are coated in a thin protective layer of enamel, which is the hardest substance in the human body. The enamel protects the sensitive inner dentin and the pulp from exposure to bacteria, so you avoid tooth decay and dental infection. But! If the enamel is damaged in an injury, worn down by teeth grinding, or weakened due to plaque buildup and poor oral hygiene, this could weaken it and erode portions away. Cavities then form, which can cause tooth sensitivity when you eat or drink, or a toothache that doesn’t subside after a day or two. You need treatment to avoid infection! But our team can often halt the decay in the early stages with SDF.
Silver Diamine Fluoride
Silver Diamine Fluoride is a unique material that we can apply to the weakened portions of outer enamel. This strengthens the area and halts the decay, so you can avoid the need for a filling and avoid the onset of a cavity. The application process only takes a few seconds, and this can be helpful for kids and adults alike. They may darken the area slightly, so we tend to reserve these for the less visible portions of your smile. Our team can then discuss better brushing and flossing habits, healthier snack options, and even treatments like fluoride and sealants to help protect smiles both young and old from the onset of cavities.
Dental Fillings
If you do happen to have a cavity form that is beyond treatment with SDF, we could instead place a filling to stop the discomfort and prevent the onset of infection. Our team will numb the tooth so you are comfortable as we remove the decay and clean the tooth. We may also etch the outer surface too. We apply a composite resin filling that is metal-free and safe for all ages. This is also color matched to blend with the tooth. We then shape the composite resin as it cures under a light, the last step being a polishing that helps brighten the tooth.
If you have any questions about preventing cavities with SDF, or about treating them with a dental filling, then contact our team today.
Ready to Schedule Treatment for Weakened Enamel?
Our team is ready to help prevent the onset of tooth decay, so reach out to our team today! To schedule an appointment with Celina Family Dentistry in Celina, TX, call (214) 851-0130.
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