By Chayden Pitzer, Student Pharmacist and Karen L. Kier, Pharmacist
On behalf of ONU Healthwise Pharmacy 

Carrie Underwood released the crossover hit Something in the Water on September 29, 2014. The song hit on both the Christian and Country charts. It won a Grammy for Underwood for Best Country Solo Performance. 

There has been quite a bit in the news recently about the use of fluoride in our water. The American Dental Association (ADA®) has extensive resources about research on the use of fluoride in water to help our dental health. Johns Hopkins’ Bloomberg School of Public Health provides an informative website on research about fluorinated water. 

All of these resources point out the importance of seeking advice from our dental health professionals even though some may have a fear of dentists (dentophobia) and dental treatment (odontophobia). Many people, especially children, can be afraid of going to the dentist.

As Easter nears with chocolate bunnies and jelly beans, it is a good time to talk about dental care. Tooth decay or cavities can occur with sugary foods and improper brushing techniques. 

A recent study evaluated a fluoride treatment option known as 38% silver diamine fluoride (SDF) to help prevent cavities in young children between the ages of one and six. SDFs are labeled for sensitive teeth, but this study shows that SDF can help stop tooth decay in its tracks. The study used a product called Advantage Arrest™ from Elevate Oral Care and a placebo made of deionized water and a harmless dye to compare results. The treatment was applied twice with one at the start and 6 months later. The researchers then followed the children for 8 months. The study ended early as SDF was found to be more effective than the placebo by more than 30%.

How does SDF work compared to other toothpastes on the market? SDF turns soft, decaying parts of a tooth into hard, healthy enamel. Enamel is the hard, protective substance covering and protecting our teeth. SDF is easy to apply and painless. Although SDF can cause some dark staining to the decayed parts of the tooth, it will not stain the healthy parts.

Next time you are at the dentist, ask if 38% silver diamine fluoride might be a good option to protect your child’s teeth from further decay. SDF should only be applied by a dentist. Make sure you do not confuse SDF with regular fluoride toothpaste! Talk to your dentist about available fluoride options and the best regimen for healthy teeth. 

Keep your child’s smile shining bright by reminding them to brush their teeth twice a day for two minutes with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, and cutting back on sugary snacks and drinks. Healthy habits now can promote good dental hygiene. 

Talk to your dental health professional about best practices and get advice about something in the water! 

If you are interested in more information please contact ONU HealthWise Pharmacy at 419-722-3784. 

ONU HealthWise offers the shingles vaccine along with RSV, flu, COVID-19 and other vaccinations.