If you are looking for a way to prevent cavities in your child’s teeth who is fond of sweets, silver diamine fluoride might be your solution. It is a clear liquid that combines the qualities of fluoride and silver to strengthen teeth and prevent bacteria formation in the oral cavity.
Various dentists in Ontario incorporate SDF in their pediatric treatments. The stronger your child’s teeth are, the lesser the chances of getting cavities. However, before undergoing any treatment, it is essential to understand what it is and weigh its pros and cons.
You can visit any dental practice in Whitby,Ontario, and ask a dentist if SDF is suitable for your child. Meanwhile, read this blog to learn about it in detail.
What is Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF)?
As already mentioned in the introduction, SDF is a clear liquid that prevents bacteria from spreading in your mouth and prevents cavities. It makes your teeth stronger and is mainly used in children. If your child already has cavities, SDF can help stop its spread.
SDF is mainly used for dental patients who cannot get traditional treatments, and children from the age of two to eight fall into that category. Here are three reasons why SDF is beneficial for children:
- It is more affordable than traditional therapeutic options.
- SDF is directly applied to the tooth and does not require any needles.
- It is convenient to apply even in the hard-to-reach areas of the mouth.
- It is safe for children and people of all ages.
- SDF is effective in what it does.
How safe is SDF?
When it comes to your children, all parents have one common question, and that is whether a particular treatment is safe.
You would be happy to know that the FDA approves SDF, and has been used worldwide for over 80 years. Since it is a painless option, it has shown a lot of success in pediatric treatments.
SDF acts as the protective shield between the bacteria and germs in the mouth and the teeth by creating a barrier. It can prevent food particles from being stuck in the grooves of the back teeth. This makes it easier for your child to take care of their oral health.
Has SDF had any side effects?
SDF has been shown to be very safe for children; however, it has had some side effects cases.
For example, make sure your child is not allergic to silver before undergoing the treatment, as it can have adverse effects. You should also avoid SDF if you have open sores, canker sores, or severe gum disease, as the solution might cause discomfort.
Moreover, SDF is not the best solution if the tooth decay has become severe and reached the soft tissue under the enamel. In such a case, a more invasive option may be required.
The most reported side effect of SDF in Ontario is staining around the treated area. Some research suggests using potassium iodide alongside SDF to reduce staining.
Research is still ongoing in this area. Developers are exploring nano-silver fluoride (NSF) as an alternative, as it might cause less staining.
How much does SDF cost in Ontario?
SDF is a highly budget-friendly option as compared to other invasive treatments. The average cost of SDF for one tooth in Ontario is around $20 to $25. The total treatment might only cost you $75. Moreover, if your dental insurance plan covers your treatment, then you might not even have to pay a single penny out of pocket!
Do not neglect your child’s teeth!
Children are often careless about their oral health. They are also more fond of chocolates, sweets, and sugary treats, which does not help their case. You should check your child’s teeth for cavities regularly. If you think your child needs SDF, visit your dentist in Ontario today!
