Pediatric Dentist in Alexandria, MN
Silver Diamine Fluoride
SDF or Silver Diamine Fluoride is a clear liquid that can be painted on cavities to stop the decay. The treatment takes about 2 minutes and is painless. The decay hardens and stays hard for 6-12 months, at which time it can be reapplied.
SDF is used where cooperation for fillings would be difficult as in small children and special needs people. We want to stop the decay before it becomes painful or abscesses but they can't hold still for numbing, drilling and filling. SDF does not fill the hole but it does stop the progress of the decay so that later when kids grow up we can do fillings. SDF is quick, less expensive than fillings, safe for anyone and painless. The big drawback is that SDF turns the decay black. This color can be covered with a white filling when the child is older and able to sit in the dental chair for longer periods of time.