Placing Silver Fluorides like ClearDefense
When I first learned about silver diamine fluoride. I remember how amazing it could be for so many patients. It could be applied to patients who could not get to a traditional dental clinic but still need care and to arrest current decay. It could be applied to kids if they had decay since their baby teeth would fall out eventually. It could be applied to anterior baby bottle caries to prevent the need for sedation during treatment. However, knowing how amazing it is and applying it to real life is definitely two different things. As I would talk to patients about the amazing benefits, of course we need to talk about the potential side effects of any medication or application. The second we would mention that the teeth would turn dark, the conversation would turn. Unfortunately, in my private practice setting, acceptance was low due to the discoloration of teeth that would happen the silver would oxidize and arrest the active caries.
That’s why I was so excited to learn and try ClearDefense- a new nanosilver fluoride from Young Specialties. This silver fluoride utilizes nanosilver to arrest decay, but it does not leave the teeth silver or dark colored. Have you seen this before?
How does Nanosilver work?
Nanosilver particles are highly effective against cariogenic bacteria, especially Streptococcus mutans, which we know is a major contributor to decay. They do this by disrupting bacterial cell walls and membranes, preventing cells from growing duplicating. It can also release silver ions which interfere with enzymes and DNA in cells, preventing these cells that have come in contact with either to replicate or metabolize. When combining nanosilver with fluoride, the two together give a powerpunch of preventing bacteria from replicating as well as giving extra minerals in that area to strengthen the weakened enamel or dentin.
Why is it Nano?
Having nanoparticles in a new silver fluoride is key for it to work. Since the particles are so small but have a large surface area, they are able to penetrate into tight spaces and follow decay as has worked its way into a tooth. The silver with fluoride will get rid of bacteria in the area of decay, but also give extra minerals to strengthen the area after the decay has stopped.
Helpful tips when applying Nanosiver:
It should not be used on someone who is allergic to the ingredients, or who are allergic to heavy metals.
It can be applied to all ages of patients, but the research currently is showing placement only on adults.
It can be used for both hypersensitivity on roots or enamel, or off-label to arrest active decay, though most research is only for sensitivity.
It doesn’t taste great, so having proper isolation is key for both patient acceptance and for uptake. You can also apply a fluoride varnish over your silver fluoride to both help with the state and to give the area extra mineral for remineralization.
We are so excited for you to bring this into your office and to introduce a new product into a noninvasive dentistry model. To learn more about ClearDefense, read more research on it, and order for yourself, check out their website.