se habla español
Safe Protection with SDF
The use of Silver Diamine Fluoride in dentistry is well documented for its ability to stop decay non-invasively. Using SDF is a conservative approach to treating decay, especially in baby teeth that will be lost in a few years. Our Doctors and the Newark Smiles Dental team can discuss with you if Silver Diamine Fluoride treatment is right for your child.
What Is Silver Diamine Fluoride?
Silver Diamine Fluoride, or SDF, is an FDA-approved antibiotic liquid that, when applied topically, can stop decay from progressing. While this treatment probably won’t prevent the need for a restoration in the future, it has been proven effective in stopping further decay until either the baby tooth is lost, or a more permanent means of repair, like a filling or crown, can be performed.
The Procedure
After the treatment area is isolated and dried, our doctors will apply the Silver Diamine Fluoride to the decay using a small brush. Then, a fluoride-infused sealer is placed over the Silver Diamine Fluoride so it can work its magic undisturbed.
- A follow-up appointment about a week later makes sure the Silver Diamine Fluoride is working, and a second application is applied.
- After your child’s procedure, daily home treatment with a fluoride rinse (like ACT) is recommended, as is twice daily brushing with a fluoridated toothpaste.
What to Expect After Treatment
After your child’s appointment, you may notice some discoloration where the SDF made contact with the surrounding tissue of the gum, skin or an existing restoration. The decayed area where the Silver Diamine Fluoride was applied will also turn dark. This is an indication that the SDF is working and is perfectly natural.
Silver Diamine Fluoride is a safe, FDA-approved, effective way to stop decay. However, if your child has a silver sensitivity, please let us know before their appointment.
When We Recommend Silver Diamine Fluoride
SDF is not the right choice for every situation, but for the right patient at the right time, it is an outstanding conservative option. Our doctors may recommend SDF when:
- Your child has early to moderate cavities in baby teeth that will be naturally lost within the next few years
- Your child is very young, typically under age three and traditional restorative treatment is not yet appropriate
- Your child has significant dental anxiety that makes conventional drilling and filling treatment particularly challenging
- A cavity needs to be stabilized quickly while a longer-term treatment plan is developed
- Multiple teeth are affected and a phased, conservative approach makes the most clinical sense
- Your child has special needs that make traditional restorative procedures more difficult to perform comfortably
Our doctors will assess your child's specific situation thoroughly and give you an honest recommendation about whether SDF is the right path forward, or whether a different treatment approach would better serve your child's long-term dental health.
Want to Know If SDF Is Right for Your Child in Newark, CA?
Our doctors are happy to discuss whether Silver Diamine Fluoride is the right option for your child's situation. We're welcoming new patients at Newark Smiles Dental, book a consultation today.
Book an Appointment