Picture this, you bring your 5-year-old daughter to their dental appointment. She is very frighted and nervous about the dentist. It has been a while since she has been seen by the dentist and hates getting shots. She usually cries and thrashes around when getting her vaccines. You are worried about what the dentist might say. The dentist does their examination and says there are some cavities that are getting big. However, you know your daughter is scared. The dentist says he has an option of doing a filling without getting a shot or using the drill. You are intrigued; however, you have always had to get a shot for a filling. You are wondering if this is fake or real? Let's find out!
Silver Diamine Fluoride
Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF) is a substance that can kill bacteria, stop the progression of cavities, prevent sensitivity, and reharden teeth. It is placed similarly to how your hygienist puts fluoride on your teeth after your cleaning. It is also very inexpensive. This sounds great doesn’t it!! However, there are some downsides, because it contains silver, it stains cavities black, it does not work for every cavity, and sometimes must be placed several times. Now, if esthetics is not a concern this can be placed without drills or shots.
SMART FILLING
A SMART filling stands for Silver Modified Atraumatic Restorative Treatment. When a large cavity is diagnosed the dentist might recommend A SMART filling. How this works is SDF is placed on the cavity. Then either the same day or two weeks later a filling that contains fluoride is placed over top of the SDF. No drill, No shots, or pain is experienced. These fillings can last until the baby tooth is exfoliated or until the patient is older to receive a permanent filling.
Verdict
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This Silve Diamine Fluoride is a fantastic way to prevent pain or shots for children. It can stop the progression of cavities at their tracks. Ask your dentist if SDF and a SMART filling is right for your child!!