SDF Treatment

All of us know that keeping children away from sweets and treats is a difficult job. These sweets more than often lead to cavities. So what can we do to control these cavities? At Zeo Cavity we have the answer to this question- its SDF Treatment

What is SDF?

Silver Diamine Fluoride is an antibiotic liquid clinically applied to control active dental caries and prevent further progression of the disease.

Why SDF when we can restore the teeth?

Although the ideal way to treat teeth with decay is by removing the decay and placing a restoration, SDF treatment allows us to stop decay with non-invasive methods, particularly with young children that have baby teeth.

Does SDF eliminate the need for restorative treatment?

Treatment with Silver Diamine Fluoride will not eliminate the need for restorative dentistry to repair function or aesthetics but has been effective at prevention of further decay. Dental restorations may include but are not limited to dental fillings, root canal therapy, and or crowns.

How does Silver Diamine Fluoride work?

Silver Diamine Fluoride is composed of two primary components: silver and fluoride. Silver acts as an antimicrobial 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.

What to expect during a visit for SDF treatment?

During your child’s visit to Zero Cavity, our dentist will clean your child's teeth to prepare for the treatment. Your child’s teeth will then be dried and any debris, such as plaque, will be removed. SDF is applied to the affected teeth with a micro brush and the solution is allowed to cure-on the tooth for two minutes. Once the tooth has been treated, it is advised not to eat or drink for at least an hour to allow it to cure.

When is SDF suggested to a child?

There are several situations in which it may be recommended by our dentist. Those include, but are not limited to the following:

• Children who may have excessive decay (severe early childhood caries)
• Young children who have difficulty cooperating for treatment
• Special needs patients
• Children with carious lesions that may not all be treated in one visit

What are the benefits?

Silver Diamine Fluoride is a particularly effective fluoride treatment for kids whose cavities cannot otherwise be treated at one time. We may also recommend Silver Diamine Fluoride for children with disabilities or those who are unable to sit for longer cavity treatments. Benefits to this technique include:

• Non-invasive
• Painless
• Quick treatment time
• Effective cavity prevention
• May stop tooth decay
• Relieves tooth sensitivity

Are there risks associated with Silver Diamine Fluoride?

SDF treatment is a safe treatment. But you should you dentist know if your child has-

• An allergic to silver
• There are painful sores or raw areas on the child's gums (i.e. ulcerative gingivitis) or anywhere in the mouth (i.e. stomatitis)