According to statistics from the Institute of Dentistry Central, the number of Vietnamese children with tooth decay is increasing, with nearly 80% of children from 4 to 8 years old having this condition. Tooth decay affects children’s health and daily life, and if baby teeth are decayed, it will affect permanent teeth later.

What is SDF?

SDF (Silver Diamine Fluoride) is a solution containing silver and fluoride, used in dentistry to prevent the progression of tooth decay without drilling. SDF works by killing bacteria that cause tooth decay, while strengthening the enamel and dentin, making teeth stronger.

SDF is recommended by the American Dental Association (ADA) as an effective treatment for tooth decay in young children – especially in cases where traditional drilling and filling methods cannot be used.

Outstanding benefits of treating tooth decay with SDF

  • Effectively prevents tooth decay: SDF has the ability to inhibit bacteria that cause tooth decay and harden damaged tooth tissue injury.
  • Helps prevent the progression of tooth decay, especially in patients who cannot access immediate invasive treatment.
  • Silver has strong antibacterial and antifungal properties, helping to kill bacteria in tooth decay and limit recurrence.
  • Fluoride in SDF helps remineralize tooth enamel and dentin, increasing resistance to acid from bacteria.
  • Just apply directly to the decayed tooth area without drilling or anesthesia, suitable for children, the elderly, the disabled or patients who are afraid of dental treatment.
  • Cheaper than traditional tooth restoration methods such as fillings or crowns.

Which cases is SDF suitable for?

Treatment of tooth decay in children

  • Especially suitable for children who cannot cooperate with traditional dental treatment.
  • Used to control tooth decay in primary teeth, reducing the need for invasive treatment encroachment.

Elderly patients or people with special care needs

  • Older adults with tooth decay due to dry mouth or receding gums.
  • Patients with disabilities or health conditions that prevent comprehensive dental treatment.

Controlling tooth decay in hard-to-reach areas

  • Molars with decay that cannot be restored.
  • Teeth with decay under restorations or orthodontic braces.

Used in community dentistry

  • Temporary solution for communities with limited dentists or medical conditions.

Caries treatment process with SDF at Lux Smile

Prepare the instruments

  • Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF) Solution
  • Cotton, dental gauze or isolation device to avoid contact with tissue soft
  • Brush or cotton swab to apply the solution
  • Mirror, tweezers, dental probe to determine the area to be treated
  • Mask, gloves, goggles for the dentist

Clean the area of ​​the tooth to be treated

  • Use dry cotton or gauze to clean the tooth surface.
  • If there is plaque or food debris, it can be cleaned with a brush or compressed air.
  • No need to drill the tooth, just make sure the affected area is dry and clean.

Isolate and protect soft tissue

  • Place a cotton roll or isolation device around the tooth to prevent SDF from getting on the gums or tongue.
  • If it gets on the skin or mucous membranes, SDF can cause temporary staining time.

Apply SDF solution

  • Shake the SDF bottle gently before use to make the solution more even.
  • Use a cotton swab or small brush to apply a small amount of SDF (usually 1 drop is enough for 5-6 teeth).
  • Apply directly to the decayed dentin area for about 1-2 minutes.
  • Avoid contact with healthy teeth to limit unnecessary staining.

Dry and wait for absorption

  • Let the solution dry naturally for about 1-2 minutes.
  • Do not rinse your mouth immediately after application to ensure that the fluoride penetrates the tooth.

Protection and monitoring

  • A layer of fluoride varnish can be applied on top to enhance protection.
  • Request a follow-up appointment after 2-4 weeks to check effectiveness and reapply if necessary.
  • If necessary, after a period of time, tooth restoration (filling) can be performed to cover the discolored tooth.
  • SDF will turn the cavity area black – this is a sign that the cavity has been neutralized.
  • The black color only appears in the cavity area, not affect healthy teeth.
  • No pain, no effect on tooth structure.
  • Children are allergic to silver or any ingredient in SDF
  • Children have tooth decay that has reached the pulp, causing pain and abscesses
  • Children have high aesthetic needs (front teeth position)
  • Avoid eating or drinking for 1 hour after applying the medication
  • Do not touch or rub the newly treated tooth area with your tongue
  • Maintain normal oral hygiene – fluoride toothpaste is recommended
  • Re-examine on time to evaluate the effectiveness of the treatment

Why should you choose Lux Smile to treat tooth decay in children with SDF?

  • Pediatric dentist: Understanding children’s psychology and behavior
  • Friendly clinic – private space for children
  • Genuine procedure – no fear for children
  • Genuine SDF medicine – effective and absolutely safe
  • Transparent cost – clear consultation step by step
  • Committed to no pain, no drilling, no psychological trauma for children
  • Commitment to closely monitored treatment effectiveness
  • Commitment to absolute safety for young children

SDF – A new step forward in non-invasive baby tooth care

If you are looking for a gentle – effective – fearless treatment for tooth decay in young children style=”font-weight: 400;”>, then SDF is the ideal choice. Let Lux Smile accompany your baby on the journey to protect a healthy smile from an early age.

Experience the service
at Lux Smile Studio

Reclaim your smile with confidence!