Silver Diamine Fluoride Treatment in Campbell CA

Photorealistic image close-up of a pediatric dentist applying fluoride varnish to a child's teeth using a small brush.

If you're looking for a safe and minimally invasive solution for treating cavities in young children, consider Silver Diamine Fluoride treatment in Campbell CA available at Campbell Pediatric Dentistry. This groundbreaking treatment provides a comfortable, drill-free approach to halting tooth decay, making dental visits less stressful for young patients and their parents.

Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF) has recently become popular among pediatric dentists due to its remarkable ability to stop cavities without traditional drilling. Historically, silver compounds have been utilized for their antimicrobial properties, but their effectiveness in preventing tooth decay has only recently been widely recognized.


How Does Silver Diamine Fluoride Work in Campbell CA?

Approved by the FDA in 2014 and commercially available since 2015 under the brand name Advantage Arrest, Silver Diamine Fluoride is a powerful solution composed of approximately 24-27% silver, 8.5-10.5% ammonia, and 5-6% fluoride, with water comprising the rest. When applied directly to a cavity, just a few drops can stop tooth decay from progressing.

The silver effectively kills bacteria causing tooth decay, while ammonia and fluoride create an environment where bacteria struggle to survive and adhere to tooth surfaces. Additionally, fluoride helps promote the remineralization and repair of the tooth structure.


What Are the Benefits of SDF Treatment?

  • Non-invasive and comfortable treatment, ideal for children who fear dental procedures.
  • Quick application procedure with immediate benefits.
  • Halts the progress of tooth decay effectively, reducing the risk of infections and abscesses.
  • Great temporary solution for children too young to tolerate more complex dental procedures.

Potential Drawbacks of Silver Diamine Fluoride

Despite its many advantages, Silver Diamine Fluoride has one notable disadvantage: it stains the treated decay area, turning it from a yellowish-brown to black. However, this staining is strictly limited to the decayed portion of the tooth and does not affect healthy tooth enamel. For back teeth, this discoloration is generally not noticeable, making SDF an excellent choice for molars.


Who Should Consider Silver Diamine Fluoride?

Silver Diamine Fluoride treatment is particularly suitable for:

  • Very young children who cannot comfortably endure conventional dental procedures.
  • Children with early-stage cavities are at risk of developing painful infections if left untreated.

However, it is important to understand that Silver Diamine Fluoride is typically considered a temporary measure. Eventually, cavities treated with SDF should receive a more permanent restoration like fillings or crowns. Additionally, cavities located between teeth cannot be effectively treated with SDF, as the solution must be applied directly to visible decay areas.


To explore whether Silver Diamine Fluoride treatment in Campbell CA is appropriate for your child, we encourage you to discuss this option with our experienced pediatric dental team at Campbell Pediatric Dentistry.

Campbell Pediatric Dentistry

476 E Campbell Ave Suite A
Campbell, CA 95008

(408) 617-8188

Monday
Closed

Tuesday
8:30am - 5:00pm

Wednesday
Closed

Thursday
8:30am - 5:00pm

Friday
8:30am - 5:00pm

Saturday & Sunday
Closed

Los Gatos Kids Dentistry

15595 Los Gatos Blvd Suite C
Los Gatos, CA 95032

(408) 617-8188

Monday
8:30am - 5:40pm

Tuesday
8:30am - 5:40pm

Wednesday
8:30am - 5:40pm

Thursday
8:30am - 5:40pm

Friday
8:30am - 5:40pm

Saturday & Sunday
Closed