Oral treatments

Dental treatment may inevitably agitate or scare children. SDF is a relatively simple and yet effective option to stop the progression of tooth decay.

Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF) solution

• an alkaline solution containing silver and fluoride ions
• clinically proven to be an effective agent to arrest tooth decay
• can effectively inhibit bacteria
• can strengthen tooth structure, and slow down the progression of tooth decay

Major indications of SDF include:

• children with multiple tooth decay
• children with high risk of tooth decay
• children who are not able to comply with restorative treatment

The application of SDF to suitable children is:

restricted to dentists or qualified allied dental professionals under the supervision of dentists.

SDF treatment procedure

• Relatively simple and usually pain-free
• It is applied simply to the decayed tissue with a small brush. No special dental equipment is required

Advantages of SDF

• Effective in stopping the progression of tooth decay
• No special dental tools are required to remove the decayed part of the tooth, hence it is more acceptable to children
• A generally simple and pain-free procedure
• Safe with rare occurrence of adverse reactions

Points to note upon SDF treatment

• After application of SDF, the decayed tissue of the tooth will harden and turn black permanently

  
• SDF may cause mild discomfort or temporary greying / whitening of the gums, oral mucosa or skin. These signs and symptoms will gradually subside in a few weeks
• SDF may leave a slight metallic taste in the mouth which usually only lasts for a few hours
• Children are advised not to eat or drink for 60 minutes after SDF treatment

Parents should:

• help their children build up a good eating and brushing habit. In general, together with a good dietary habit and proper oral care practice, annual application of SDF is considered effective for the control of tooth decay that would save the children from undergoing the more complicated dental treatment until the treated primary teeth fall out

  

  

• take their children to regularly visit the dentist who will monitor the decay condition and determine if further treatment (such as repeated SDF application, fillings, etc.) is needed