An alternative to dental restorations that is often used is silver diamine fluoride. This is a liquid that can be applied to a cavity that can help stop decay. This technique is often used to slow tooth decay long enough for a child to get older and the tooth can be treated with minimal sedation. It is a very helpful option for some situations. One downside to this treatment is that it will turn the cavities black. If you look up SDF treatment online you can see example pictures of teeth that have been treated with SDF.
Can silver diamine fluoride help prevent cavities or reverse cavities?
Silver diamine fluoride (SDF) does not prevent or reverse cavities. Think of it more as an option that allows you to “freeze” a cavity and buy more time until you can have it fixed. It is used to help stop the progression of cavities. This decrease in the advancement of decay is a very effective tool for some children.
Who is silver diamine fluoride good for?
SDF is best used for young children who have cavities on their baby teeth. This helps to buy time until a tooth can be treated safely, or sometimes until a baby tooth can fall out naturally. A good example is when a 15-month-old child has cavities that cannot be fixed safely due to a toddler’s inability to cooperate. SDF is a great treatment to buy some time to prevent tooth loss while the patient grows to an age when they can have their teeth fixed.
Is silver diamine fluoride safe?
Silver diamine fluoride is very safe. It is composed of silver, which has an antibacterial effect; ammonia to concentrate the solution; fluoride to remineralize teeth; and water. Although it is not aesthetically pleasing, it is very effective in slowing tooth decay. It has been around for over eighty years and has been used in Japan for decades.
