Fluoride Treatment
Your child brushes twice a day, flosses regularly, and visits the dentist every six months. But did you know that rinsing with fluoride – a mineral that helps prevent cavities and tooth decay – also helps keep teeth healthy and strong?
Fluoride is effective in preventing cavities and tooth decay by coating teeth and preventing plaque from building up and hardening on the tooth’s surface.
Receiving A Fluoride Treatment From Your Dentist
A fluoride treatment in the dentist’s office takes just a few minutes. After the treatment, patients may be asked to not rinse, eat, or drink for at least 30 minutes in order to allow the teeth to absorb the fluoride. Depending on your child’s oral health or your doctor’s recommendation, your child may be required to have a fluoride treatment every three, six, or 12 months. Your doctor may also prescribe at-home fluoride products such as mouthwash, gels, or antibacterial rinses.
Choosing The Right Fluoride Treatment
When choosing an at-home fluoride product (such as toothpaste or mouthwash), always check for the American Dental Association’s (ADA) seal of acceptance. Products marked with the ADA seal of approval have been carefully examined and approved by the ADA based on safety and effectiveness.
Silver Diamine Fluoride
Silver diamine fluoride (SDF) is a liquid medication that’s applied topically to the teeth to stop tooth decay from progressing. SDF helps harden the tooth structure softened by decay and keeps the affected teeth stable until your dentist can determine if further action is needed.
Silver Diamine Fluoride is composed of two primary components: silver and fluoride. Silver acts as an antimicrobial agent that simultaneously strengthens the underlying protective layer of your teeth called dentin. Fluoride is the active ingredient that puts a stop to tooth decay and helps prevent additional decay from appearing.
Some of the common instances where SDF may be recommended are:
- Children who have excessive decay
- Younger children who may have difficulty cooperating during treatment
- Special needs patients
- In instances where treatment may take multiple visits to complete
