Your child’s smile deserves optimal protection. Because their oral hygiene habits are still developing, and their diets often consist more of sugar than greens, cavities can easily form, creating potential problems for their future smiles. Fortunately, silver diamine fluoride (SDF) is now being used by dental professionals more and more to not only treat cavity-stricken teeth but minimize the possibility of future ones forming. Read on to learn more about SDF and what it can do to improve your child’s smile.
What is Silver Diamine Fluoride?
Silver diamine fluoride is a restorative form of dentistry commonly used on young smiles struggling with cavities. As a substance consisting of silver, water, ammonia, and fluoride, SDF prevents future decay from forming while also stopping decay in its tracks.
Its approval by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2014 allowed dentist to begin incorporating it into their practices to help children who suffer from cavities and may not be ready mentally or emotionally to receive tooth-colored fillings.
Many patients who suffer dental anxiety can find it difficult to undergo the process of receiving a tooth-colored filling; however, with silver diamine fluoride, the process is non-invasive, allowing for a more positive experience.
How Can SDF Help to Reduce Cavities?
Researchers at New York University performed a study on 3,000 school-aged children to determine the effectiveness of SDF and the prevention of cavities. When applied to teeth with cavities as well as those without, it proved just as successful as the use of dental sealants.
When administered in a single dose, SDF proved to prevent an estimated 80% of cavities and kept nearly 50% of those already developed from worsening after two years.
The process requires applying SDF to the affected area, allowing it to kill the bacteria. This keeps it from spreading and damaging the existing tooth or other nearby healthy teeth.
It is also beneficial in preventing future cavities, especially in children who may be unable to see a dentist every six months for regular checkups and cleanings.
As a painless and quick procedure, SDF is a preferred method for many young patients. While future restorative services will likely be necessary once a child is older, SDF can be an ideal option to keep smiles healthy and free of dental decay.
About the Author
Dr. Bryce Cushing is a pediatric dentist who completed his dental degree at Virginia Commonwealth University School of Dentistry. After graduating with honors, he completed a pediatric residency at the University of Florida College of Dentistry. As the lead dentist at Surf’s Up Pediatric Dentistry, he and his team are here to offer exceptional care to patients. Using SDF to stop the spread of decay and prevent future cavities, individuals can expect healthier smiles year after year. Contact us via the website or call (402) 773-7873 to learn more.