If your child is not old enough to have a standard teeth cleaning procedure from a pediatric dentist, consider silver diamine fluoride (SDF) treatment. The generic name for a new product designed to prevent tooth decay, SDF is an FDA-approved antibiotic liquid. Learn more about this decay inhibitor to determine if it is right for your little dental patient.

What Is Silver Diamine Fluoride?

SDF consists of silver, water, fluoride, and ammonia. Water provides a liquid base, while ammonia maintains the solution’s concentration for maximum results. Silver kills bacteria and fluoride remineralizes tooth enamel. The liquid is applied to decayed areas of the teeth after moisture is removed using gauze and small suction tools. Some pediatric dentists use glass ionomers or crowns to ensure proper product applications. Cavities do not need fillings or other work prior to application. However, affected teeth will undergo debris removal.

Who Are Good Candidates for SDF?

General and pediatric dentists recommend SDF for children with severe tooth decay and/or carious lesions. Because this process does not require anesthesia or drills to protect teeth from further decay, SDF works well for young children, who may have problems cooperating during dental treatments, and helps special needs patients of all ages.

What Are Some Benefits of SDF Treatment?

SDF not only stops current tooth decay, it also keeps it from spreading to prevent dental health issues, such as painful cavities, root canals, gingivitis and gum disease, as well as jawbone deterioration. This noninvasive procedure also fortifies teeth to relieve sensitivity and does not involve any pain. It is subsequently ideal for children, as well as for adults who have dental procedure anxiety. Note that decayed tooth areas will turn black, and your little one may notice a metallic taste that wears off quickly. Also, accidental applications to gums and skin can result in temporary brown stains. However, they disappear in roughly one to three weeks.

If you believe SDF is right for your child, make an appointment at Pediatric Dentistry of Onalaska, LLC. Located in Onalaska, WI, these pediatric dentists use Advantage Arrest™, a top-notch SDF brand-name product, to keep children’s teeth healthy. Call the children’s dentistry center today at (608) 781-9114 to schedule an appointment for your child, or visit them online for additional information on children’s teeth cleanings. For more dental tips, check out their Facebook.