Silver Diamine Fluoride Alice

Say No to Cavities!

Cavities are one of the most common childhood afflictions, with one estimate stating that more than 40% of children ages 2 – 11 have cavities in their baby teeth. Our Alice team wants to help your family say no cavities and decay! That is why we often recommend the application of silver diamine fluoride (SDF) for young smiles. What is this treatment, and how does it work? Continue reading below to find out.

What Is Silver Diamine Fluoride?

Little girl in dental treatment chair, giving thumbs up

Silver diamine fluoride is a topical solution that contains silver and fluoride. Its ingredients work together to remineralize tooth enamel. In other words, SDF helps to rebuild weak spots in teeth, meaning that it can stop early signs of tooth decay and may prevent the formation of cavities.

SDF is a little different than regular sodium fluoride, which can also remineralize teeth. SDF is more effective at stopping the progress of cavities that have already formed.


How Does SDF Work?

Young child high-fiving dental team member

SDF treatment is simple and painless for children.

First, our team will clean your child’s tooth in order to remove any plaque and tartar that have accumulated on it. Once the tooth is clean, liquid SDF will be applied with a small brush to areas that have decay or small cavities. Then, a regular fluoride varnish may be applied to the entire tooth or all of the teeth.

The process takes just a few minutes, and it can be included as part of your child’s routine cleaning and checkup appointment.

Once you leave our office, make sure that your child does not eat or drink for at least one hour. The SDF solution will need a bit of time to harden into place.


When Is Silver Diamine Fluoride Recommended?

Dentist and child patient looking at X-ray together

We may recommend SDF for your child if:

  • They have existing cavities or are at a high risk of developing cavities.
  • They have dental cavities in their baby teeth that we wish to stop the progression of.
  • They have special needs and find it difficult to care for their teeth.
  • They find it challenging or uncomfortable to deal with other types of treatment, such as the placement of a filling.
  • They have demineralized tooth enamel.


What Are the Benefits of an SDF Treatment?

Happy child pointing at their teeth

SDF treatment offers some outstanding benefits:

  • It is completely non-invasive. In other words, no drills or injections are required!
  • It is approved by the FDA. You can have confidence in the effectiveness and safety of SDF.
  • The treatment is fast and painless. Even some of the most nervous kids find this treatment easy to tolerate.
  • It can reduce dental sensitivity. Your child may find it easier to eat a wide variety of foods, including those that are hot or cold.