Silver Diamine Fluoride – Wylie

Non-Invasive, Pain-Free Way to Protect Your Child’s Smile

You always do your best to teach your children the importance of keeping their teeth strong and healthy. However, it is common for young kids to develop tooth decay in their primary teeth. It’s super important that we take the initiative to stop it in its tracks and prevent new cavities from forming, but most small children aren’t eager to sit still in the dental chair for a long period of time. Fortunately, silver diamine fluoride (SDF) treatment is a non-invasive, pain-free way to protect your child’s smile. To learn more how it works, don’t hesitate to give us a call.

Why Choose Wylie Children’s Dentistry for Silver Diamine Fluoride Treatment?

Board-Certified Pediatric Dentist
We Welcome Dental Insurance
Weekend Appointments Available

What Is Silver Diamine Fluoride?

Girl smiling in the dental chair

Silver Diamine Fluoride is an FDA-approved liquid that is topically applied to the teeth. This can help to prevent the damaging effects of tooth decay and stop cavities from worsening. SDF is applied directly to the surface of the tooth to keep cavities from growing until a more permanent restoration can be used. Because SDF is able to preserve healthy tooth enamel, the damage can be kept from worsening and affecting the nerve of the tooth.

How Does Silver Diamine Fluoride Work?

Young boy at the dental office

We will begin by thoroughly cleaning your child’s teeth. This is because all plaque and tartar need to be removed beforehand, and your child’s teeth must be completely dry. With a small brush, we will carefully apply SDF to the surfaces of each tooth that is affected by decay. Then, the SDF must air dry. This process only takes a few minutes and is completely painless. After the treatment is complete, your child needs to wait at least one hour before eating and drinking.

When Is Silver Diamine Fluoride Recommended?

Photo for Benefits of SDF:

Silver diamine fluoride is typically recommended for the following scenarios:

Your child’s tooth enamel is experiencing demineralization, therefore resulting in cavities.
Your child has several minor cavities that need to be treated at the same time.
Your child has special needs and has difficulty with thorough brushing and flossing.

What Are the Benefits of Silver Diamine Fluoride?

Boy in the dental chair looking at the dentist

There are many different benefits that your child can experience with SDF. Here are the most prominent:

Minimal to no tooth sensitivity following the procedure
Ideal for anxious children
Quick treatment process
Safe and effective

Are There Any Special Considerations Prior to Silver Diamine Fluoride Treatment?

Before opting for SDF treatment, it’s important to consider the following:

Teeth with decay treated by SDF may experience darkening of color in the decayed region.
SDF is effective, but reoccurrence of decay also relies on your child’s frequency and quality of brushing and flossing as well as dietary factors.
Regular dental cleanings and checkups are recommended to closely monitor SDF-treated teeth.
Re-application of SDF may be necessary if decay continues to worsen.
Restorations, like fillings or dental crowns, may still be recommended in certain cases.