Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF)
Silver Diamine Fluoride, commonly known as SDF, is an FDA-approved antibiotic liquid that’s applied to your child’s teeth to control active dental caries and prevent further progression of disease. Although the ideal way to treat teeth with decay is by removing the decay and placing a restoration, this alternative treatment enables your child’s dentist to non-invasively stop decay.
At Park Smiles NYC Pediatrics, our experienced pediatric dentists may offer this treatment as an alternative to traditional fillings for your child. Learn more about the benefits of SDF today.
For children with anxiety or special needs who are unable to sit still for a longer period of time for fillings, silver diamine fluoride (sdf) offers a safe, painless and faster option.
What are the benefits of SDF treatment?
SDF has a quick application time, which is a major benefit for children with anxiety or special needs, as mentioned above. Additional benefits include:
- It stops the growth of the cavity.
- It’s non-invasive and painless.
- Multiple teeth can be treated at once.
- No numbing is required.
- It helps relieve tooth sensitivity.
- It can help avoid or delay more extensive restorations.
When would SDF be recommended for a child?
There are several situations where your child’s dentist would recommend SDF, including:
- Children who have excessive decay and may not be able to sit still for a longer treatment involving regular fillings. SDF is easily and quickly applied in one appointment.
- Young children who also may have difficulty cooperating for treatment.
- Children with anxiety or special needs.
How does SDF work?
Silver Diamine Fluoride is composed of two primary components: silver and fluoride. Silver acts as an anti-microbial agent that simultaneously strengthens the underlying protective layer of your teeth called dentin. Fluoride is the active ingredient that puts a stop to tooth decay and helps prevent additional decay from appearing.
During your child’s visit to our office, their pediatric dentist will brush and rinse their teeth without paste to prepare for the treatment. Their teeth will then be dried and any debris, such as plaque, will be removed. SDF is then applied to the affected teeth with a small brush and the solution is allowed to cure on the tooth for two minutes. Once the tooth has been treated, patients are advised not to eat or drink for at least an hour to allow it to fully cure.
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