As technology improves, dentists around the globe are raising the bar! In this ever-evolving industry, the goal remains the same: to keep patients happy and healthy. These updated materials, tools and procedures help dentists achieve this goal and set new standards.
Part of this wave of rapid improvement is the concept of minimally invasive dentistry. It might sound complex and scary, but you’ve likely had a few procedures done already.
Allow us to explain.
What is minimally invasive dentistry?
Also known as microdentistry, minimally invasive dentistry is a broad term used to describe procedures that conserve and improve patients’ oral health and tooth structure. Minimally invasive dentistry is the art of targeting a problem area while preserving as much of the original tissue as possible. The goal is always to eliminate and prevent a problem while leaving healthy areas intact.
Did we mention that microdentistry leads to fewer dentist visits? It’s true! Through the use of state of the art tools and materials, minimally invasive dentistry reduces the need for future dental repairs. By zeroing in on the problem zone, your procedure will be completed quickly and efficiently.
What are the implications?
Many procedures can be categorized under the umbrella of minimally invasive dentistry, one of the most popular being caries lesions. In this case, most dentists rely on silver diamine fluoride (SDF): a compound consisting of silver, water, fluoride and ammonia.
When your dentist is treating caries lesions, they’ll apply the silver diamine fluoride directly to the problem area to prevent caries from occurring. Traditionally, fluoride varnish was to prevent cavities but compared to SDF, the results aren’t nearly as effective. Studies state that most dentists apply SDF once per year while varnishes often need to be applied upwards of four times.
Silver diamine fluoride plays a huge part in silver modified atraumatic restorative technique
(SMART) restorations. SMART restorations stop decay and protect your smile using a combination of SDF and glass ionomer cement (GIC).
In just one appointment, SMART procedures successfully prevent and treat caries. The silver in the SDF contains antibacterial and remineralizing properties while the GIC has the ability to isolate any surviving bacteria, protecting the tooth from any further damage. Together, they quickly restore the area and make it good as new.
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Dr. Halim and his team are proud to use only the most advanced technology available to make your appointments as effective as possible. To learn more about non-invasive procedures, book your next visit today.
