Dentistry is an ever-changing field; constantly, innovations are being made that elevate the level of care being provided by dentists, and at the end of the day, all of these advancements benefit you, the patient! That said, one exciting breakthrough is the use of SDF (silver diamine fluoride) in preventive dentistry, particularly in the realm of dental sealants. Continue reading below to learn more about SDF and how it can safely and effectively be used in dental sealants, which ultimately goes a long way toward protecting your little one’s smile!
What Exactly Is SDF?
SDF is a liquid substance composed of ingredients like silver, ammonia, water, and fluoride; it’s long been utilized for its ability to address dental caries, more commonly known as cavities. It acts as a potent antimicrobial agent that halts the progression of tooth decay. It can also be used as a dentin desensitizing agent, effective for treating tooth sensitivity. It’s worth noting that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved SDF for safe use within a professional setting.
Why Is SDF Used in Dental Sealants?
Children are often more susceptible to dental cavities due to their developing oral hygiene habits and their higher consumption of sugary foods; this is often what facilitates the need for dental sealants. Dental sealants act as protective shields for the chewing surfaces of teeth, which is where decay often begins. Needless to say, dental sealants have an important job, which is why top-of-the-line materials like SDF are used.
A study of over 3,000 schoolchildren conducted by New York University determined that when children were given a single dose of SDF treatment, it offered impressive cavity prevention and reduction benefits—roughly 80% of cavities were prevented, and 50% of cavities were kept from worsening after two years. One of the key advantages of using SDF is its non-invasive and child-friendly application; while traditional sealants might require etching, SDF can be applied with minimal discomfort, which is ideal for younger, more anxious patients. SDF is also renowned for its antimicrobial properties and its enamel-strengthening capabilities, meaning it’s undeniably effective at halting decay and reducing its chances of occurring again in the future.
The bottom line is that SDF is an ideal choice for not only effectively preventing cavities, but also stopping their early progression. As dentists continue to prioritize preventive care, especially in younger patients, SDF will likely remain a key ally and valuable asset that keeps our kiddos smiling brightly!
About the Practice
Under the leadership of Dr. Justin Chan and Dr. Sage Yoo, the team at Sprout Dentistry for Kids has proudly served patients and families in McKinney for several years. They’re excited to offer a wide range of preventive, cosmetic, and restorative pediatric dental services for children of all ages. If you have any questions about the blog or you’d like to get in touch with the team to set up a visit for your child, feel free to visit their website or call their office. Telephone: (469) 813-7127.