Silver Diamine Fluoride
Silver Diamine Fluoride is an FDA-approved antibiotic topical solution that is clinically applied to control active dental caries and prevent further progression of disease. While the traditional way to treat tooth decay is by removing the decay and placing a restoration, this alternative fluoride treatment allows us to stop decay in it’s tracks by noninvasive methods.
Silver Diamine Fluoride is composed of two primary components: silver and fluoride. The Silver acts as an anti-microbial agent that kills the bacteria that break down tooth surfaces while also working to strengthen the underlying protective layer of your teeth called dentin. Fluoride is the active ingredient that halts the tooth decay, helps prevent additional decay from appearing, as well as keeps the bacteria from spreading to the other teeth.
Treatment with Silver Diamine Fluoride will not eliminate the need for restorative dentistry to repair function or aesthetics, but has been highly effective at prevention of further decay and damage. SDF is a safe, painless alternative to traditional cavity drilling procedures.
