Silver diamine fluoride is a minimally invasive treatment used to stop the progression of cavities and reduce tooth sensitivity in children. Whether used as a short-term solution or part of a broader care plan, SDF helps preserve tooth structure and ease discomfort, without drills or anesthesia.
What is Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF)?
Silver diamine fluoride is a liquid solution that remineralizes and protects teeth. It contains silver, which works to kill bacteria responsible for cavities, and fluoride, which helps strengthen tooth enamel.
Approved by the FDA as a tooth desensitizing agent, SDF also creates a protective barrier over sensitive areas of the tooth.
How is SDF Different from Traditional Fluoride Treatments?
Traditional fluoride treatments, such as varnishes or gels, primarily work to strengthen enamel and help prevent cavities from forming. SDF goes a step further by both strengthening teeth and arresting existing decay. Its antibacterial properties actively combat the bacteria that cause cavities, stopping them in their tracks.
Plus, SDF can be applied quickly and painlessly, making it a less intimidating option for children who may feel anxious about dental visits.
What Can a Child Expect During an SDF Application?
The solution is carefully brushed onto clean, dry teeth, specifically on areas with visible decay. Once applied, the decayed portion of the tooth will darken to a black or dark brown color, which is a sign that the SDF is working to stop the cavity.
Healthy parts of the tooth remain unchanged, and the application itself is quick, painless, and completed in just a few minutes.
When Do Children Need SDF?
Silver diamine fluoride is particularly helpful in several situations, including:
- Early signs of tooth decay that are still small and manageable
- Children who experience dental anxiety or have difficulty sitting for traditional treatments
- Patients with special healthcare needs or medical conditions that make invasive dental work challenging
- Teeth with sensitivity caused by exposed dentin
- Kids with many dental cavities or prone to decay
How Often Does SDF Need to Be Applied?
The effectiveness of SDF lasts for months, but it may require reapplication every six to twelve months to maintain its protective benefits. In many cases, it’s applied one to three times within the first six months after diagnosis to help stop cavity progression, then reapplied as needed during routine checkups.
During regular dental visits at Naranja Pediatric Dentistry, we’ll monitor treated areas and recommend follow-ups based on each child’s individual needs.
