The FDA-approved antimicrobial liquid, Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF), has been clinically proven to arrest active tooth decay and keep it from progressing any further.
Traditionally, the recommended treatment for tooth decay was removal of the infected tooth tissue followed by a restoration procedure such as dental fillings, crowns, or root canal. SDF treatment provides a noninvasive alternative for saving infected teeth, which is particularly beneficial for young children who still have their primary teeth.
Keep in mind that SDF treatment does not eliminate the need for restorative dental procedures if you wish to enjoy the function and aesthetics of the original healthy tooth. But it effectively stops the disease from progressing until you can determine whether to restore it, extract it, or let it come out naturally as the adult tooth emerges.
How SDF treatment works
Silver Diamine Fluoride comprises two key components: silver and fluoride. Fluoride is the active ingredient responsible for stopping tooth decay and preventing it from appearing on the site, whereas silver assumes the role of an antimicrobial agent while simultaneously strengthening tooth dentin.
If your child is a suitable candidate for SDF treatment, the dentist will:
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Brush and rinse his/her teeth without any paste
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Dry the teeth and remove any debris – including plaque
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Apply the SDF liquid to the infected teeth using a microbrush
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Allow two minutes for the solution to cure on the teeth
Your child needs to wait for at least one hour before consuming anything to allow for the treatment to cure adequately.
Is SDF right for your child?
SDF is a painless, non-invasive treatment with quick treatment time. It can be effectively used to relieve tooth sensitivity, prevent cavities, and stop tooth decay. It is recommended for children with excessive tooth decay or carious lesions that cannot be treated all at once, for children with special needs, or those who find it difficult to cooperate for longer cavity treatments. Also keep in mind that all applied areas will stain black, and may need a crown or filling for aesthetics purposes.
Request an appointment to determine whether SDF treatment is right for your child.