Effective Cavity Prevention in Grand Rapids, MI with Safe Fluoride
As harmful bacteria grow on the surfaces of teeth, they release acidic secretions. This acid leaches minerals from tooth enamel which can eventually lead to significant decay. Fluoride treatments help guard against this demineralization and can even reverse demineralization in its early stages.
Fluoride Varnish
Fluoride varnish is easily applied, and it’s effective cavity prevention for your child’s teeth. Fluoride varnish has been shown for decades to be a quick, simple, painless, and safe treatment that offers superb preventative benefits for teeth. Specifically, fluoride varnish can aid in the remineralization of teeth and make them more resistant to the demineralization effects of acid and bacteria.
Remember, although baby teeth don’t last a lifetime, they are crucial. Good oral health starts early, so protect your child’s teeth. To learn more, please call our office at (616) 957-0303.
SDF Treatment
Tooth decay is an ongoing and never-ending process. Daily oral hygiene is essential in the struggle against decay, but silver diamine fluoride (SDF) can also effectively mitigate decay’s effects in certain circumstances. SDF offers a minimally invasive way to manage decay and prolong the lifespan of teeth by decreasing new and progressing decay by approximately 80%. SDF hardens the softened dentin (inner tooth tissue) when applied early in the decay process. Silver remains within the decayed area, continuing the antibacterial effect. The fluoride also remains and contributes to the remineralization of the tooth structure, helping to prevent future decay.
A side effect of SDF treatment, and a sign that it’s working, is that SDF can stain decayed areas of the tooth structure a grey/black color.
The decay-arresting effects of SDF last from 6 months to a year, and SDF can be reapplied easily at routine hygiene appointments. This fact means you don’t need to come in for an additional visit. Like fluoride varnish, SDF treatment is safe and comfortable.
Call us at (616) 957-0303 to schedule an appointment.