Silver Diamine Fluoride in Lehi, UT
Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF) is a non-invasive, FDA-approved treatment that stops active tooth decay and prevents it from progressing. At Alpine Kids Dentistry, SDF gives us a gentle alternative for treating cavities, especially in young children and patients who can’t tolerate traditional procedures.
While the ideal way to treat decay is to remove it and place a restoration, SDF allows us to halt decay without drilling. It’s a valuable option at our Lehi, UT office for many children and families.
What Is Silver Diamine Fluoride?
SDF is an antibiotic liquid applied directly to a cavity to control active decay and prevent further progression. It is a particularly effective option for children whose cavities can’t all be treated in one visit, as well as those with disabilities, sedation contraindications, or who are unable to sit through longer cavity treatments.
Benefits of SDF
This treatment offers several advantages, including a non-invasive, painless application, a quick treatment time, effective cavity prevention, the ability to stop tooth decay, and relief from tooth sensitivity. For many families, SDF provides a stress-free way to protect a child’s smile while planning next steps.
What to Expect
Treatment with SDF may not eliminate the need for restorative dentistry to repair function or appearance, but it has been highly effective at preventing further decay. Depending on your child’s needs, follow-up care may include dental fillings, pulp therapy, or crowns. One thing to note is that SDF darkens the treated area of decay. Come in and talk with our pediatric dentist about whether your child would benefit from SDF. Request an appointment or call 801-377-5437.
Silver Diamine Fluoride FAQs
What is silver diamine fluoride?
SDF is an FDA-approved liquid applied to a cavity to stop active decay and prevent it from spreading. It is a painless, non-invasive alternative to drilling for many children.
Is SDF painful?
No. Applying SDF is quick and completely painless. There is no drilling, numbing, or discomfort involved, making it ideal for young or anxious children.
Which children are good candidates for SDF?
SDF is especially helpful for very young children, those with multiple cavities, children with special needs, and patients who cannot tolerate longer treatments or sedation.
Does SDF change the color of the tooth?
Yes. SDF darkens the decayed area of the tooth where it is applied. Our dentist will discuss this with you so you know what to expect before treatment.
Does SDF replace fillings or crowns?
Not always. SDF stops decay, but restorative treatments like fillings or crowns may still be recommended to fully repair the tooth’s function and appearance.
How long does an SDF treatment take?
The application takes only a few minutes per tooth, making it one of the fastest and easiest ways to manage active decay in children.
How effective is SDF at stopping cavities?
SDF has been shown to be highly effective at arresting active decay and preventing further progression, especially when combined with good home care and regular checkups.