Silver has been used for thousands of years to prevent and treat a variety of medical conditions. In addition to its use to improve wound healing, silver compounds have been used in the past one hundred years for microbial infections of the eye and mouth. About fifty years ago, researchers found the silver compound, silver diamine fluoride (SDF), to be effective in treating and preventing some dental cavities.
What Is Silver Diamine Fluoride?
Silver diamine fluoride is a colorless and odorless liquid containing water, ammonia, about 25% silver, and 5% fluoride. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has given it the same approval for dental use as fluoride varnish to treat hypersensitive teeth. However, it has become more popular due to its off-label uses.
How Does It Work?
The silver in this solution kills bacteria that cause the formation and progression of dental caries that affects tooth enamel and dentin. In addition, the fluoride in silver diamine fluoride 38% solution re-mineralizes or re-hardens the enamel to repair the defect. There is also evidence that the solution may offer the same hardening benefit to the dentin if it is affected by deeper cavities.
What Is Silver Diamine Fluoride Used For In Dentistry?
The current uses of SDA in dentistry include:
What Are The Risks Associated With It?
SDF has been shown to be effective and safe to use. The side effects are rare and mostly minor and temporary, such as:
Two precautions need consideration in the use of SDF:
What Are The Benefits Of Silver Diamine Fluoride Treatments?
Some of the many benefits of SDF include:
Contact Us
Call us at 281-358-6330 or contact us online today to set up an appointment for an evaluation and to learn more about how you might benefit from silver diamine fluoride.