Silver Diamine Fluoride

in Fort Worth, TX

World-Class Pediatric Dental Care with a Gentle Touch

Tooth decay remains one of the most prevalent childhood diseases and, if not treated, can result in poor oral and overall health and reduced quality of life. While drilling and filling remains the standard treatment for cavities, young children now have a non-invasive alternative for managing tooth decay.

Little girl was surprised at how her silver diamine fluoride treatment went.
Sunny Side of the Street Pediatric Dentistry logo blur2

What Is SDF and How Does It Work?

Silver diamine fluoride, or SDF, is an FDA-cleared treatment that arrests cavities without the need for anesthetic shots or drills. It has two primary components: silver and fluoride. Silver is an antimicrobial agent that destroys cavity-causing bacteria and prevents the formation of new biofilm. The fluoride component, on the other hand, strengthens and remineralizes the tooth enamel and lowers the risk of new decay. SDF has been shown to decrease tooth sensitivity, especially in areas with gum recession.

Is SDF Right for Your Child?

SDF is a safe and effective way to temporarily manage cavities. It comes with no reported health risks or severe adverse effects. We typically recommend SDF treatment for young children with severe early childhood caries. The alternative treatment also offers a non-invasive option for patients with special medical needs and those unable to physically cooperate during treatment.

SDF is not a permanent solution for cavities as it does not restore the treated teeth to their natural form and function. However, it can stop tooth decay in its tracks until the primary teeth fall out naturally or until traditional treatments can take place.

What Are the Benefits of Silver Diamine Fluoride?

Treating cavities in young children or children with special healthcare needs often requires sedation or even general anesthesia. SDF offers a quick, painless, and non-invasive solution to improve a child's oral health without traditional restorations that involve the use of dental anesthetics and the drill. Moreover, SDF is affordable, with just one drop of the antimicrobial liquid able to treat up to five decayed teeth.

How is Silver Diamine Fluoride Applied?

SDF is easy and simple to apply, with no shots or unfamiliar sounds. We will start by cleaning and isolating the affected tooth to keep it dry. Next, we will brush the SDF solution onto the carious lesions, leave it on for two minutes, then clean off any excess. Make sure your little one doesn't eat or drink for about an hour after treatment.

How Can You Prevent Tooth Decay?

Prevention is always better than cure, so encourage your child to brush and floss daily and to limit sugary foods and drinks. Don’t forget to visit Sunny Side of the Street Pediatric Dentistry for your child’s routine dental exams and cleanings. Dr. Tyfanni and her team will monitor your little one’s smile to make sure it stays in tip-top shape.

Preventive Dental Care Near Me

Visit Sunny Side of the Street Pediatric Dentistry to learn more about our preventive dentistry services designed to keep dental problems at bay. Dr. Tyfanni and her kid-friendly team are all about keeping their young patients smiling their best for years to come. We invite you to call our office to schedule your child’s appointment or request one online today!

We proudly serve young patients in Fort Worth, TX, and the surrounding communities.