Silver diamine fluoride is a liquid that is painted on cavities or sensitive roots, and dried. It's been used in Japan for about eighty years, without any reported negative side effects. It does two things simultaneously. The silver component kills bacteria, and makes the tooth surface antibacterial (it also stains the tooth, so it's usually best for back teeth). The fluoride component hardens the soft, bacteria-affected tooth structure. After we paint it on the tooth, we can then add a tooth-colored filling to replace the missing tooth structure, but since the cavities aren't sensitive anymore, the process is usually comfortable without anesthetic. It's much less expensive than conventional fillings or stainless steel crowns. We find that it helps kids not be afraid of the dentist, and it’s a great solution for adults with sensitive molars, too.
If you believe you are not getting the proper amount of fluoride, please don't hesitate to talk to us.