What is Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF) Treatment?
May 26, 2023
Silver diamine fluoride (SDF) is used to help prevent and treat dental caries (tooth decay). It involves applying a liquid solution containing silver, fluoride, ammonia, and water to the affected area of the tooth, which helps to kill the bacteria that cause decay and harden the tooth structure.
At Dundas Tomken Dental, we offer SDF treatment which can be particularly beneficial for children who are at high risk of developing tooth decay, such as those who have difficulty maintaining good oral hygiene, have a diet high in sugar or carbohydrates, or have a genetic predisposition to cavities.
Procedure
The procedure is very simple and quick. Our Mississauga dentist, Dr. Lin will clean and dry the affected tooth or teeth. A small amount of SDF solution is applied to the affected area using a brush or applicator. The solution is allowed to soak into the tooth for about two minutes. Our Mississauga dentist will rinse the tooth with water to remove any excess SDF. In some cases, the dentist may apply a fluoride varnish to further strengthen the tooth surface. The best part of this procedure is that it does not require any anesthesia or drilling.
Is SDF safe?
SDF has been approved by Health Canada since 2017 for the prevention and arrest of dental caries. SDF contains silver, however, so it should not be used for people with allergies to silver or who have ulcers in the mouth. SDF is often used in pediatric dentistry, although it can be used for patients of all ages who have cavities or tooth decay.
Pros & Cons of SDF Treatment
Like any medical treatment, there are pros and cons to using silver diamine fluoride (SDF) for dental care.
Pros:
- SDF is a non-invasive treatment that can be used to stop the progression of cavities without the need for drilling or removing any part of the tooth. This makes it a popular treatment option for patients who have dental anxiety or phobias.
- SDF can be a cost-effective alternative to traditional treatments like fillings, which may require multiple appointments and can be more expensive.
- SDF has antibacterial properties that can help kill the bacteria that cause cavities and tooth decay, reducing your risk of developing new cavities.
- SDF strengthens the tooth structure, making it less likely to break or get damaged.
- SDF can help to relieve pain caused by tooth decay by desensitizing the tooth and reducing the risk of further damage.
- SDF can be used to prevent further decay in teeth that have already been affected by cavities. It can also be used to prevent new cavities from forming in high-risk populations, such as young children or older adults.
Cons:
- Staining: SDF can cause black or brown staining on the treated tooth and surrounding areas. While the staining is harmless, it can be unsightly and may not be suitable for teeth that are visible when smiling or speaking.
- Limited effectiveness: While SDF can help slow the progression of tooth decay, it is not a permanent solution. Eventually, the tooth may still require more invasive treatment, such as a filling or crown.
- Not suitable for all types of decay: SDF is typically most effective for treating early-stage cavities. In more advanced cases, it may not be effective at stopping the decay and other treatments may be necessary.
Overall, SDF treatment can be a valuable option for preventing dental caries and preserving teeth, especially in young children. If you're looking for SDF treatment for you or your kids, contact our Dundas Tomken Dental office today for a consultation.
