When a cavity forms, a filling is crucial for protecting the tooth. But what if a cavity hasn’t fully formed, or we find one in the earliest stages? In these scenarios, we may be able to help little smiles in Richardson, TX, with silver diamine fluoride (SDF). Find out how this unique treatment helps stop the progress of a cavity in one visit!
Preventing Cavities From Growing Worse
If we examine your little one and find cavities in the early stages of formation, we may be able to halt the progress with silver diamine fluoride. We clean the tooth thoroughly and then apply the material in the similar fashion as traditional fluoride. The material coats the decayed areas and prevents further exposure to harmful bacteria. This halts the cavities instantly. In fact, the entire procedure only takes a few minutes to complete and we often provide them as part of a regular checkup. Now, we typically reserve these for the side and rear teeth, as SDF does halt decay, but will turn the impacted area black. However, for rear teeth that are never visible, the discoloration shouldn’t be a problem. For front facing teeth, we may opt for a filling instead, which can blend with the teeth.
When You Need a Filling
If we find a serious cavity, one that cannot be stopped with SDF, we will provide a filling. We remove the decay from the teeth and clean it thoroughly. Instead of applying a varnish, we apply composite resin, a metal-free material that can be shaded to match the color of the tooth. We shape the tooth as the material cures under a light. Once completed, the tooth looks natural.
Preventing Cavities Completely
If the cavity is in the earliest stages, we can halt the issue quickly with SDF. If the cavity has formed completely and lack of restoration could mean pain and infection, we will recommend a filling. But what about preventing them completely? To protect little smiles, we may recommend dental sealants, a plastic coating on the rear teeth that prevents food from becoming stuck between them, lowering the risk of cavities. A traditional fluoride vanish also strengthens outer enamel. These treatments, combined with at-home brushing and flossing and regular dental cleanings, could help safeguard smiles of all ages against tooth decay. If you have any questions, or if you would like to schedule a visit for your little one, then contact our team today.
Bring Your Child in For a Checkup This Week
If your little one hasn’t been to the dentist in a while, consider scheduling a visit for an exam and cleaning today. For more information on children’s dentistry, schedule a consultation by calling the Viva Dental Family Dentistry office nearest you at (214) 337-7800 (Dallas) or (972) 437-6000 (Richardson).
