ZPD Chronicles, Volume 3

ZPD Chronicles
January 2018, Volume 3

 

We hope this year is bigger and brighter than ever! After a few struggles with Hurricane Harvey and the disaster it left behind, we were able to rebuild our office and our spirits, and are excited for a brand new year! We want you to stay informed on the latest and greatest options for your little ones, so read on about another choice for fillings, some new exciting giveaways ZPD has to offer and as always a yummy recipe to keep you warm despite the cold outside. Wishing you all a very happy new year!

 

An Alternative for Fillings:     Silver Diamine Fluoride

You may have recently heard about another option to treat your child’s cavities using a product called silver diamine fluoride.  This product is a minimally invasive treatment option for dental caries in children.  It provides another choice instead of fillings so your child can have a much more positive experience while visiting the dentist.

How do I know if my child is a candidate for this treatment?

Discuss your child’s specific needs with the dentist to determine if your child is an appropriate candidate. Often times these are some identifying factors:

  • Patient’s young age
  • Patient’s high anxiety/nervousness leading to uncooperative behavior
  • Patient’s low weight inhibiting them from having sedation treatment
  • Patient has special needs

 

Patient’s Alternative to SDF, but not limited to the following:

• No treatment, which can affect tooth structures and cosmetic appearance. Symptoms may increase in severity, with tooth nerve involvement.

• Depending on the location and extent of decay, other treatment may include placement of fluoride varnish, a filling or crown, extraction or referral for advanced treatment modalities.

It should be noted that treatment of tooth decay with Silver Diamine Fluoride does not necessarily prevent the need to place a regular filling or other restoration in the affected tooth in the future. Reapplication of SDF is common at 3 month intervals to maintain the arrested caries long term.

Facts about SDF:

  • It is an FDA approved treatment to decrease dental sensitivity and reduce bacteria causing cavities
  • Allows treatment of cavities without a drill
  • It has a lower cost than fillings
  • Using it can decrease hospital visits or sedations needed for treatment  
  • It does cause dark staining of the treated area

 

Remember to ask your dentist about this product at your next visit for more information.

Hot Cocoa Recipe

Premix a jar of this for an instant batch of warmth and goodness on any eve!

Ingredients:

2 1/4 cups hot cocoa
3 1/2 cups sugar
1 TBSP salt

Add 2 TBSP of your hot cocoa mix to 1 cup of milk.  You can use a peppermint stick or cinnamon stick to stir for extra flavor and can top with whipped cream and marshmallows for an extra boost. Substitute almond milk or coconut milk for a different flavor and enjoy!

 

Would you like to be the lucky winner of this amazing new Oral B toothbrush? Simply like us on facebook at your next office visit and we will enter your name in the drawing! Good Luck!

Don’t forget our No Cavity Club!

Make sure to stay cavity free at your next visit and you can win a prize from Toys R Us and a donation to your favorite charity from ZPD.