According to a study by the U.S. government, about 43% of children ages 2 to 19 have cavities. While this number is down 50% from ten years ago, it’s still too high for comfort. Tooth decay is actually the most common disease in the United States, regardless of age. Fortunately, there is a way to stop decay in its tracks – fluoride! Keep reading to learn how Silver Diamine Fluoride treatment for kids in Poway can prevent and even reverse early signs of cavities.
What Is Silver Diamine Fluoride?
Silver Diamine Fluoride is an FDA-approved, naturally occurring mineral that comes in liquid form at your child’s dentist’s office. It is used to protect against and even reverse early signs of tooth decay in young children. Some other dentists treat cavities in kids by cleaning out the decayed area and placing a filling, crown, or some other restoration. Using fluoride allows your child’s pediatric dentist in Poway to heal their teeth with a non-invasive treatment. It should be noted, however, that once your child is old enough, a restoration may be needed to fill their cavities.
How It Works
Before placing fluoride, your kid’s dentist must make sure your little one’s teeth are free of plaque and tartar. Then, they will use a tiny brush to topically apply the fluoride to each decay-infected tooth. In just a few minutes, your child’s teeth will be strengthened against future decay. Your child will feel no pain at all during the procedure; it should feel just like a normal tooth brushing. Finally, it is suggested that your son or daughter not eat or drink for an hour afterwards to avoid ingesting the fluoride.
Benefits of Silver Diamine Fluoride
Apart from preventing the development of cavities, Silver Diamine Fluoride treatments offers a whole host of advantages, such as:
- The procedure is completely non-invasive.
- Your child will not experience any pain during application.
- Treatment takes almost no time at all, and can be done at your child’s regular dental checkups.
- Fluoride can even relieve tooth sensitivity.
The next time your child complains about tooth pain, take them to see a dentist who offers fluoride treatment. It should heal their decay and protect them against future cavities!
About the Author
Dr. Sam Tiep is a children’s dentist in Poway who has been Board-Certified through the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry, which means that she has demonstrated her clinical expertise through rigorous examinations. She loves watching little smiles grow up happily and healthily. With over a decade of experience as a pediatric dentist, she’s committed to providing quality care to all her young patients. To learn more, click here to visit Dr. Sam’s website.