You could be forgiven for thinking that dental decay can only be treated using invasive methods involving drilling out areas of decay and restoring the tooth with cavity fillings, crowns or other solutions. After all, in the past, these were the only options. However, today there is a solution that can reverse dental decay without the need for invasive treatment. It is called Silver Diamine Fluoride. 

What is dental decay and what causes it?

Dental decay, also known as caries or cavities, is caused by the destruction of tooth enamel due to acids made by bacteria within the mouth. 

When we eat and drink, the sugars in the things we consume interact with the naturally occurring bacteria already present in our mouths. This causes the creation of plaque. Plaque is the thin, sticky film that coats our teeth. You may be able to feel it with your tongue if you run it over your teeth as it will cause them to feel slippery and sticky. Plaque contains millions of bacteria, and it is these bacteria that produce acid as a by-product. This acid causes demineralization. This is when there is a loss of mineral from the tooth enamel, 

The acid created by plaque causes the loss of minerals from the teeth (which is a process called demineralization). When these minerals are lost, tooth decay can occur, and cavities develop. These start off looking like dark-colored spots on your teeth. You may also develop bad breath, an unpleasant taste in your mouth, tooth sensitivity and toothache.

What is Silver Diamine Fluoride and how does it reverse tooth decay?

Silver Diamine Fluoride is an antimicrobial liquid that has gained approval by the FDA for the treatment for tooth decay. Unlike other invasive treatments, Silver Diamine Fluoride can simply be pasted onto the teeth and left to work. The silver acts as an anti-microbial agent, strengthening the layer of your tooth that is known as dentin, which is found beneath the enamel. The active ingredient in the solution, fluoride, is absorbed by the teeth. Once in your enamel, it combines with the naturally occurring phosphate and calcium in your teeth to form a substance called fluoroapatite that re-mineralizes teeth. The remineralization that occurs can reverse the formation of small cavities and reverse dental decay. Fluoroapatite is also extremely strong, resistant to decay and actively fights to protect your teeth from it by killing the bacteria that causes it. Therefore, by undergoing Silver Diamine Fluoride treatment, you can also prevent further dental damage from occurring.  

Silver Diamine Fluoride treatment is completely painless and so there is no need for anesthesia. This makes it a particularly good option for patients who are fearful of dental treatments, or who are unable to have anesthetic. The treatment can be carried out in a single visit. 

If you would like more information about Silver Diamide Fluoride treatment for reversing dental decay, or to schedule an appointment, please contact our offices.