Cavities Filled Without a Needle?
The news that your child has a cavity launches messages in your brain, such as “I can’t believe this!” and “This is going to be painful!” and other warning bells that your little one is going to have to endure a needle, followed by drilling, both of which mean the possibility of a meltdown in the dental chair. We have good news for you.
The NY Times recently published an article about a new technology (which we have) that you might not know about: silver diamine fluoride: SDF for short. SDF has been used in Australia, China, Japan and many other countries for several decades. It’s been used for 80 years in Japan and underwent 12 clinical trials, with no problems. We’ve had it in the states only for the past year, under the name “Advantage Arrest.”
What is Silver Diamine Fluoride?
SDF is a liquid composed of silver, fluoride and ammonia NH3 that was originally created to relieve dental hypersensitivity. It didn’t take long after the 2014 FDA approval for dental professionals to use SDF to treat and prevent cavities.
How Does Advantage Arrest Work?
It’s brushed onto the surface of the tooth with the cavity.
That’s it. No drilling, no needle, no discomfort.
Are There Drawbacks to SDF or Advantage Arrest?
The only drawback is a darkening of the teeth (and anything else the liquid touches, like the inside of the mouth, clothing, etc), which is temporary.
If you’d like to view a PowerPoint of the SDF product, click the link. It was prepared for dental professionals, but the photos give you a very clear indication of its effectiveness.
I use Advantage Arrest in our NYC pediatric dental office so, if your child has a cavity, rest assured I will use this unless it’s contraindicated in your child’s case. I think it’s one of the latest and greatest technologies to help keep your kids’ teeth healthy while fostering a sense of safety at the dental office!