SDF Treatments for Kids in the Overland Park - Kansas City Area
Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF) Treatments
Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF) is an antimicrobial liquid that offers an efficient, non-invasive way to treat severe cavities, making it especially useful for children and teens. When applied, SDF helps remineralize and stabilize teeth with extensive decay, offering a quick alternative to traditional restorative methods.
The Benefits of SDF Treatment
Silver Diamine Fluoride Treatments for Kids and Teens
At Harman-Tinnel Complete Family Dentistry, we use SDF treatments for kids and teens because It’s particularly effective for baby teeth that are challenging to restore or have multiple areas of decay, providing a safe way to halt further damage. While the application of SDF does cause the decayed areas to turn black, this is an essential part of the process, as it seals the decay from additional bacteria and helps prevent the progression of cavities.
In some cases, our team may apply an SDF treatment twice within a year to reinforce its effectiveness in protecting the teeth from future decay. For teeth that continue to show improvement after SDF treatment, a filling may be placed on top to restore normal function and appearance. This combination of SDF and traditional fillings offers a versatile solution for preserving young teeth until natural exfoliation occurs or more permanent options are viable. Overall, SDF provides a unique, less invasive treatment option that focuses on arresting decay and preserving children’s dental health comfortably and efficiently.
The 411 on SDF Treatment
Frequently Asked Questions About SDF Treatments
We are here to answer all of your Silver Diamine Fluoride Treatment questions! Don’t see a question here that you have? Call or email us, as we’d love to answer it for you!
What is Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF), and how does it work?
Silver Diamine Fluoride is a liquid treatment that combines silver, which kills bacteria, with fluoride, which helps to strengthen teeth. It’s applied directly to decayed areas to stop the spread of decay and can even help protect the surrounding teeth by creating a protective barrier.
Who is a good candidate for SDF treatment?
SDF is particularly effective for young children, teens, or patients who may have difficulty with traditional cavity treatments. It’s ideal for baby teeth that are hard to restore or that have multiple areas of decay. It also works well for patients with special needs or those who experience dental anxiety.
Will SDF turn my child’s teeth black?
SDF does darken the decayed areas of the tooth to a black color, which signals that the decay is sealed off and that bacteria are no longer active. The healthy parts of the tooth and surrounding teeth remain unaffected, and a filling may sometimes be added later to cover the area if needed.
How often does my child need SDF treatment?
SDF is often applied once and then reapplied within six months for maximum effectiveness. The number of treatments depends on the severity of the decay and the response to initial applications. In some cases, a filling may be added after SDF to improve the tooth’s appearance and function.
