The Power of Silver Fluoride: A Simple Solution to Stop Cavities in Their Tracks
At Corwin Family Dentistry, we’re always looking for ways to make dental care easier, more comfortable, and more effective — especially for our youngest patients or those with dental anxiety. One of our favorite tools in preventive dentistry? Silver diamine fluoride, also known as SDF or just silver fluoride.
This simple treatment is a game-changer when it comes to stopping cavities in their tracks — without the need for drilling or numbing.
What Is Silver Diamine Fluoride?
Silver diamine fluoride is a liquid that combines two powerful ingredients:
Silver, which kills bacteria
Fluoride, which helps strengthen and protect teeth
When applied to a tooth with a cavity, SDF works by stopping the decay and hardening the damaged area. It’s especially helpful in situations where traditional fillings may not be ideal — like with very young children, patients with special healthcare needs, or those who are nervous about dental procedures.
Who Can Benefit from SDF?
We often recommend SDF for:
Young children with early-stage cavities
Patients who may have trouble sitting through a filling
Individuals with multiple cavities or limited access to restorative care
Seniors dealing with root decay
It’s a great short-term solution and sometimes even a long-term fix, depending on the case.
The Pros of SDF:
✅ No shots, no drills, no stress
✅ Quick and painless — treatment takes just a few seconds
✅ Stops active decay
✅ Cost-effective
✅ Can delay or prevent the need for fillings or crowns
What to Expect
The application process is simple:
We dry the tooth.
Apply a small amount of SDF to the cavity with a tiny brush.
That’s it — you’re done!
The only catch? SDF stains the decayed part of the tooth dark brown or black. This means the cavity is still visible, just no longer active. For baby teeth or teeth in the back of the mouth, most parents are happy to make this trade-off — no pain, no drilling, and the decay stops spreading.
If aesthetics are a concern, we can discuss next steps like placing a tooth-colored filling later on.
A Tool in the Toolbox — Not a Cure-All
While SDF is amazing, it’s not right for every situation. It doesn’t rebuild lost tooth structure, and it doesn’t replace the need for regular cleanings, good brushing, and a healthy diet. But when used appropriately, it can make a huge difference in managing cavities and improving overall dental health.
Curious if Silver Fluoride Is Right for You or Your Child?
We’re here to help! Our team at Corwin Family Dentistry believes in personalized care, and we’re happy to walk you through all your options.
Give us a call or book an appointment today — and let’s talk about whether silver fluoride could be the simple solution your smile needs.
