When dealing with your child’s tooth decay, you want to avoid procedures such as drilling and filling cavities. If your child has tooth decay, you can consider an alternative called Corona silver diamine fluoride (SDF). But, just like other emerging kinds of treatments, there are concerns and questions regarding SDF. Thus, as a parent, you must learn more about this treatment to assess whether it is right to the teeth of your little one. 

How Does SDF Work?

This topical liquid medication has been found effective in slowing down or stopping tooth decay. With fluoride, your saliva can efficiently remineralize your tooth enamel. Also, fluoride increases the resistance of the enamel to future acid-related degradation. Fluoride is known for its antimicrobial properties. 

Silver fluoride can be used to stop the progression of tooth decay and maintain the stability of the affected teeth until further action is determined to preserve their health. The application of SDP hardens the tooth structure that decay has softened. 

When Is SDF Recommended?

Although drilling and filing a cavity may cost just $200 on average, an SDF treatment will often cost less than $100 and may be covered by insurance. The affordability of this treatment makes it a good option for those on a strict budget or people who cannot find or access dental care. 

Particularly, SDF is an effective cavity treatment for kids. Since children’s teeth are not yet permanent, the advantages of cavity treatments outweigh the staining issue. Also, SDF is a preventative measure that can stop tooth decay. 

SDF vs. Cavity Drilling and Filling

SDF is the least invasive treatment for cavities and tooth decay in children. The process can be complicated in an hour at a dentist’s office. The application of classic fillings includes the application of numbing agents to the teeth, gums, and the skin that surrounds the mouth to ensure the patient is comfortable throughout. Then, the dentist drills out the decay of the affected teeth and fills in a dental paste made of silver amalgam or composite resin.  

Although this process is short, it can be scary for a child. The drilling process should be precise, particularly when a dentist handles smaller teeth. Because of this, the dentist and the patient must cooperate to do the fillings successfully. 

While the filling procedure can be stressful, it is important for teeth restoration. But, it may not be worth restoring decaying baby teeth. SDF can stop decay from getting worse. 

Pratiksha