Silver diamine fluoride is an FDA-approved antimicrobial liquid used to help control and halt dental caries (cavities) and prevent any further progression of tooth decay. Our pediatric dentist may also recommend this treatment for individuals with hypersensitive teeth.

Silver diamine fluoride is made from two main ingredients — silver and fluoride. The silver in the solution acts as an antimicrobial agent to strengthen the underlying protective layer of your teeth, while the fluoride works to halt tooth decay and prevent further damage from occurring. Be aware that this treatment does stain the teeth, though the "sliver" or "gray" discoloration fades over time as the fluoride is absorbed.

Silver diamine fluoride may be recommended for:

• Children with severe early childhood caries
• Young children who have difficulty cooperating for treatment
• Special needs patients
• Children with carious lesions that cannot be treated in just one visit

Some benefits of silver diamine fluoride include:

• Quick, painless, non-invasive treatment
• Minimization of the amount of restorative work needed later
• Elimination of harmful pathogenic organisms
• Prevention of further cavities
• Almost immediate reduction in tooth sensitivity
• Hardening of dentin, making it more resistant to acid and abrasion
• Stain-free treatment for healthy dentin or enamel (though it will stain decayed tooth tissue)

We invite you to call us today to schedule your appointment with our pediatric dentist and learn more about silver diamine fluoride. We look forward to helping your child gain a healthy smile!