
Jan
Tooth decay is a common issue for children, but an effective, quick solution is available. At South OC Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics in Mission Viejo, CA, we offer Silver Diamine Fluoride Treatment (SDF) to stop tooth decay in its tracks. If your child is dealing with cavities or early signs of decay, SDF might be the ideal treatment to keep their smile healthy.
Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF) is a liquid solution applied directly to the surface of decayed teeth. It works by halting the progression of cavities, preventing further damage. The treatment is pain-free, non-invasive, and highly effective for managing early-stage tooth decay, especially in young children. SDF is a great option for cavities in hard-to-reach areas or children who may not be ready for fillings or crowns.
SDF contains silver and fluoride. Silver is an antimicrobial agent that kills the bacteria that cause tooth decay, while fluoride strengthens and remineralizes the enamel. By applying SDF to a decaying tooth, we stop the cavity from growing and prevent further damage by hardening the tooth’s surface.
Yes, Silver Diamine Fluoride is a safe, FDA-approved dental treatment. It is especially beneficial for children who may not be able to sit through traditional treatments like fillings or who have cavities in the early stages. Our pediatric dental team in Mission Viejo ensures this treatment is applied safely and effectively.
SDF is most effective for treating early cavities in primary (baby) teeth. It’s also a great choice for children with special needs or those with difficulty undergoing traditional fillings. SDF works well when the cavity is small and there’s no significant damage to the tooth.
Silver Diamine Fluoride offers several key benefits:
The main side effect of SDF is that it can temporarily stain the treated area black. This cosmetic change does not affect the tooth’s health, and the stains are usually manageable with regular brushing. In some cases, follow-up care can be provided to address any stains.
The effects of SDF can last several months to a year, depending on the severity of the decay and the area treated. Regular dental visits are important to monitor your child’s dental health and determine if further treatment is needed.
If your child is dealing with tooth decay or cavities, Silver Diamine Fluoride Treatment may be the ideal option to stop the progression of decay and maintain a healthy smile. South OC Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics is committed to providing gentle, effective treatments for your child’s dental care.
Call us today at (949) 581 5800 to schedule an appointment and learn more about how Silver Diamine Fluoride can benefit your child’s teeth!
Dr. John De Lorme is a Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry (ABPD). He is a healthcare leader in his community, speaking at parent/child classes throughout South Orange County for the last 30 years. He attended Saint Mary’s College, University of the Pacific – Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry, and the Harvard School of Dental Medicine and Boston Children’s Hospital for his residency.
Dr. Samuel Wu, also an ABPD Diplomate, attended the University of California in Berkeley and Los Angeles and spent his residency at the Harvard School of Dental Medicine and Boston Children’s Hospital. He has a passion for medical missions to other countries.
Both Drs. De Lorme and Wu are affiliated with MobiSurg, an Accredited Surgery Center, and are members of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, California Society of Pediatric Dentistry, American Dental Society, California Dental Association, Orange County Dental Society, and American Academy of Pediatrics.
Dr. Chris Carter completed his undergraduate studies at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, and dental school and residency at Oregon Health and Science University. He practiced general dentistry for five years before specializing in orthodontics. His experience at the University of California – Irvine’s Plastic Surgery Department allows him to craft smiles that perfectly complement each patient’s unique facial features.
Dr. Carter is a member of the Omicron Kappa Upsilon National Dental Honor Society, Pacific Coast Society of Orthodontists, American Association of Orthodontists, Orange County Dental Society, California Dental Association, and American Dental Association.