Can Silver Diamine Fluoride Stop Cavities without Fillings?
Yes, silver diamine fluoride (SDF) can stop the progression of cavities without the need for traditional drilling.
This Health Canada–approved liquid is applied by brushing it directly onto the site of decay. It works through a two-fold process:
- Killing Bacteria: The silver component in the liquid acts to kill the bacteria responsible for the cavity.
- Remineralization: The fluoride component promotes the natural remineralization of the tooth structure, helping to harden and protect it.
While SDF is a highly effective, drill-free alternative—particularly for children, the elderly, or those with dental anxiety—it does result in a permanent dark stain on the treated area. It is often used as a non-invasive standard of care to arrest decay when aesthetic concerns are secondary to preserving tooth structure and avoiding anesthesia.
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