Building up a tooth’s protective “armor” (enamel) with a cavity-fighting powerhouse: Silver Diamine Fluoride

Fluoride is a safe, proven, and effective way to keep your or your child’s smile healthy, happy, and looking its best! As your “dental home” in San Pedro, California, Groat Pediatric Dentistry is pleased to offer a turbocharged “twist” on cavity-fighting fluoride in the form of SDF – silver diamine fluoride.

Fluoride treatment that shines 

Fluoride is a natural mineral that helps protect and restore a tooth’s enamel covering. Our board-certified pediatric dentist, Dr. Christopher Groat, may apply this antibacterial solution as a form of professional fluoride supplementation. It represents a safe complement to other products, such as fluoride toothpaste. It is also appropriate for patients of all ages at risk of developing cavities or being treated for active decay. 

The fluoride in SDF is formulated to do what it does best: remineralize or build up the enamel. SDF, however, is also designed with other powerhouse substances, notably silver particles that kill harmful germs. 

The process

During your child’s check-up, Dr. Groat may easily apply SDF to the damaged areas of the teeth in just minutes. The fluoride mixture is applied in liquid form with a special brush to the clean and dry surfaces of the teeth. A little bit of SDF goes a long way. Dr. Groat and his team will also give you tips and recommendations on how to promote remineralization at home. 

Seize the many benefits!

SDF does not require a numbing anesthetic and can be placed on problem areas in just a few minutes. It’s a great way to ease painful symptoms, such as sensitivity, associated with early-stage tooth decay. As a highly targeted form of fluoride, SDF can effectively treat specific areas of damage. SDF is also an economical alternative to more extensive restorative treatments to repair damage to the tooth caused by untreated decay. It can also help to delay the need for restorative treatment for our younger patients who may not be quite ready to tolerate fillings or crowns. Our San Pedro, CA office welcomes any questions you may have about SDF, and we look forward to meeting you and your child. Following a comprehensive exam, Dr. Groat can determine whether SDF may be a good choice for your child. Call us at (310) 832-5133 today.