Managing Cavities With Silver Diamine Fluoride

celina silver diamine fluorideWhen a cavity is discovered in the earliest stages, which is possible with checkups and cleanings every six months, we can help prevent the need for a dental filling, and halt discomfort. This is possible with Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF), which is beneficial for kids and adults alike. In today’s blog, your Celina, TX, dentist talks about the benefits of SDF.

The Warning Signs of Cause of Tooth Decay

People with tooth decay often report tooth sensitivity to hot and cold foods and drinks, or a persistent toothache that doesn’t pass with time. This could happen in kids and adults alike, and is caused by the enamel becoming weakened and compromised, allowing bacteria to reach the inner dentin and cause a cavity. Poor oral hygiene habits or injury could lead to compromised enamel and make this possible. When you experience pain, please let us know right away. But even better, be sure to attend your six-month checkup visits, so we can identify this in the earliest stages, before you even experience discomfort.

Applying SDF

If you do attend your checkups and we discover the earliest stages of demineralization, or the process of portions of enamel eroding away, then we can halt the cavity before a filling is even necessary. We apply SDF to the tooth, which coats the decaying portions and prevents them from growing more severe. This also helps destroy harmful oral bacteria in the decayed area of the tooth. This could darken these portions of the teeth, so we usually reserve this for the side and rear teeth. This helps prevent discomfort and avoid the need for a restoration to treat the tooth. We can use this for patients of all ages, providing a noninvasive and comfortable option to slow the rate of tooth decay.

Dental Fillings

What if the cavity is too severe to be addressed with SDF? In these situations, we can offer a metal-free and lifelike dental filling. Made from composite resin, this can be shaded to blend with the tooth and offer a lifelike appearance. We numb the area, remove the decay, and then clean the tooth. The composite resin is applied in several layers and sculpted as we cure it under a light. The last step is to polish the tooth for a brighter appearance.

When possible, we want to help you and your family avoid the onset of cavities, so you can smile with confidence and stay free of infections or tooth loss.

Talk To Your Celina, TX Dentist About Preventive Dental Care

We would like to help you and your family avoid the onset of cavities. If you would like to find out more about preventing major tooth decay, then contact your Celina, TX, dentist, Dr. Newton, by calling (214) 851-0130.