Silver Diamine Fluoride

Silver Spring, Maryland

Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF)

Cavities remain widely common among children, and without treatment, they can progress and lead to poor oral and overall health. At My Kids Dental Center, we offer silver diamine fluoride (SDF), a non-invasive, quick, and affordable alternative to dental fillings to manage tooth decay. A consultation with our experienced pediatric dentist, Dr. Cargill, will determine if your child is a candidate for SDF. 

How We Help You and Your Child Feel Right at Home

My Kids Dental Center is more than a pediatric dentistry practice. It is a safe and happy place that we hope you and your child will come to love. We've considered every detail and worked hard to create an exciting and enjoyable space for your little one. From our seamless transitions to our beautiful office and cutting-edge, compassionate care, expect a one-of-its-kind pediatric dentistry experience!

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What Is Silver Diamine Fluoride and How Does It Work?

Silver diamine fluoride is an FDA-approved treatment that we offer to "arrest" cavities without any injections or drilling. The fluoride in SDF boosts tooth strength by remineralizing the enamel or top layer of your little one's teeth. Meanwhile, the silver component kills cavity-causing bacteria and prevents biofilm formation. When SDF is applied to a carious lesion, the antimicrobial and remineralizing solution arrests existing decay, prevents future decay, and decreases tooth sensitivity.

Is Your Child a Candidate for SDF Treatment?

SDF can help prevent a cavity from progressing while waiting for a baby tooth to fall out naturally with a simple treatment twice a year. For a good number of our little patients, SDF is breakthrough therapy on an interim basis. That is why the National Institutes of Health labeled silver diamine fluoride as the "silver fluoride bullet."

Candidates for SDF include very young children and children with special medical or behavioral needs. The alternative treatment is also beneficial for children with multiple cavities or recurring cavities that are difficult to treat and those at a higher risk for dental cavities.

What Are the Benefits of Silver Diamine Fluoride?

Repairing tooth decay and cavities in young children or patients with special health care or behavior needs often requires dental sedation or even general anesthesia. SDF is a practical and efficient way to improve a child's oral health without traditional restorative treatments, including anesthetic shots, drilling, or dental fillings. 

SDF application is painless and easy, enhancing a patient's oral health quickly and comfortably. It has proven to be safe in decades of use around the globe. Dental experts continue to use SDF because of its effectiveness and low toxicity levels.

It's important to note that although SDF stops a cavity from progressing, it does not restore a tooth to its original appearance or function. Moreover, one of its side effects is that it causes black staining of the decayed tooth structure. However, the ease of treatment and the incredible results make it a perfect interim solution to prevent the progression of tooth decay while waiting for a baby tooth to fall out naturally.

Silver Fluoride Diamine Near Me

If you are looking for a gentle, conservative treatment to manage tooth decay and cavities, SDF is a solid option. Dr. Cargill will carefully assess and determine the ideal dental treatment to restore your little one’s healthy smile. We invite you to contact our Silver Spring office to schedule your child's dental appointment or request one online today!