Decay Management

At Maple Meadows Dental, we take a preventative, modern medical approach to caries (decay) management. Two treatments that we are pleased to offer are glass ionomer (GI) fissure sealants and Silver Diamine Fluoride applications.

GI fissure sealants are placed in deep grooves and pits in back teeth. It blocks out bacteria that can cause decay, while strengthening the enamel underneath and making it less susceptible to decay.

To place the sealant:

  • Teeth are polished with pumice, rinsed and lightly dried

  • The sealant is painted into the pits and grooves

  • Sealant sets in 90 seconds

No freezing, no drilling and no need to wait to eat afterwards. GI sealants prevent cavities in those typically vulnerable areas.

Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF) is a liquid that is applied to the tooth to stop decay and re-mineralize the enamel, eliminating the need for a regular filling. Even young children can develop cavities that need attention, but just the thought of needles, drilling and filling can be traumatizing for some parents and little ones. SDF can be a good option. It has been proven to be very effective and is safe to use on adults and children alike.

Typically, this treatment is used when the decay is minimal, and the tooth structure is not badly broken down. Where your dentist considers SDF to be a good option:

  • The tooth is simply isolated with cotton rolls

  • The SDF liquid is brushed on to the decayed tooth surface

  • SDF sets in 2 minutes

And that is it! No drilling or filling. This process needs to be repeated at 6-month intervals for 2 years. The only side effect to note is black staining around the decayed (demineralized) area where SDF is applied.

Most insurance companies pay for fissure sealants; SDF is not yet a benefit on many plans, but the cost is modest. We are happy to pre-authorize the treatment to your insurance and supply you with an estimate before treatment.

Call our Maple Ridge dentist office today to book your next appointment!