SDF

Our team at Chinook Smiles recognizes that, sometimes due to a variety of reasons, traditional cavity treatments such as fillings may not be feasible or possible. In these scenarios, SDF (silver diamine fluoride) may act as an alternative to fillings by controlling tooth decay and cavities.

This blue-tinted solution may seem like magic with its remarkable ability to retard the progression of tooth decay (and sometimes even arrest it completely), but the true science lies behind its star ingredients, silver and fluoride ions. In short, the silver ions kill cavity-causing harmful bacteria, while the fluoride ions work on the damaged tooth structure to remineralize and re-harden it. SDF has proven to be an extremely effective treatment in young children and patients with medical conditions contraindicating operative dental treatments.

After SDF treatment, it’s essential to avoid eating or drinking for at least one hour to allow the SDF solution to take effect fully. Our dental team will provide specific instructions on how to care for the treated tooth and maintain optimal oral hygiene.

• SDF will stain the decayed tooth area a dark brown colour. Healthy tooth structure will not be affected.

• SDF will stain clothing, so leave your favourite shirt at home for this one.
• The taste is yucky! Our dental team always try their best to properly isolate the treated area so the solution does not touch the tongue, but if it does, consider yourself forewarned!