Silver diamine fluoride is a minimally invasive treatment used to stop the progression of tooth decay and manage dental caries in both children and adults. This FDA-approved liquid is applied topically to affected teeth and serves as a powerful tool in modern preventive dentistry. It is particularly helpful for patients who may not be candidates for traditional restorative care due to age, medical conditions or dental anxiety.
How Silver Diamine Fluoride Works
This treatment is made from two active ingredients: silver and fluoride. The silver component acts as an antimicrobial agent that eliminates decay-causing bacteria, while fluoride strengthens the tooth structure and helps remineralize weakened enamel. Together, these ingredients help halt existing decay and protect the tooth from further damage.
Silver diamine fluoride in Burnsville, Minnesota, is typically recommended for patients with early-stage carious lesions, especially in situations where drilling and filling are not ideal or feasible. It is commonly used in pediatric dentistry, for individuals with special needs and for elderly patients with root exposure or limited access to dental care. It may also be useful for patients who require multiple visits to complete traditional restorative treatment, allowing temporary stabilization of active decay.
Advantages of Treatment
The benefits of silver diamine fluoride are extensive. Most notably, the treatment is fast, painless and does not require anesthesia or drilling. This makes it an excellent option for young children or individuals with dental phobia. It also reduces tooth sensitivity almost immediately after application, which can bring significant relief for those with exposed dentin.
Other benefits include the prevention of further cavity development, a decrease in harmful bacteria and reinforcement of the tooth’s outer layers. Silver diamine fluoride also helps minimize the need for more invasive procedures in the future by slowing the rate of decay and providing time for more comprehensive treatment planning.
It is important to note that while silver diamine fluoride effectively stains decayed portions of the tooth dark, it does not discolor healthy enamel or dentin. The darkening is a visual indicator that the decay has been arrested, which is often considered an acceptable trade-off in non-aesthetic areas or for patients with limited treatment options.
Schedule Your Visit Today
If you or a family member is struggling with tooth decay, our dentists may recommend silver diamine fluoride treatment in Burnsville, MN, as a gentle, effective option for managing the condition. Please contact Twin Cities Modern Dentistry to schedule your appointment with Dr. Mike Henrickson or Dr. Laureen Ballinger and learn more about this innovative treatment. Our team is here to help you achieve and maintain a healthy, confident smile.