September 13, 2022

What is SDF?

When you start taking your little ones to the pediatric dentist you will come across several terms and words that seem to be in another language. At Stevenson’s Dental Ark and The Dental Ark we make sure to explain procedures and terms to our parents for their peace of mind. One of the terms you might come across while at your little one’s dental visit is SDF, so keep reading to find out what it is.

SDF Defined

SDF is a liquid that can be painlessly brushed or flossed, on a cavity to stop decay. There are 2 indications for using SDF. 1. As a temporary solution, to stop a cavity when a child is under 2 years old or if a child has a medical condition and cannot receive dental treatment. SDF needs to be reapplied every 8-12 weeks until the child can undergo dental treatment.

How does it help?

SDF can stop a very small cavity from progressing. If your pediatric dentist sees a new spot on the x-ray, SDF can be applied in the hope the cavity will not progress but the tooth structure will remineralize.

The biggest pitfall to SDF is it does turn the cavity black. If the SDF gets on the gums, it temporarily will “tattoo” the gums, like a henna tattoo. It will go away!

For more information ask our great team of pediatric dentists at The Dental Ark and Stevenson’s Dental Ark. If you are currently looking for a Dental Home for your little ones, we are the place to go! We have a great team of pediatric dentists that are experts on all of your child’s dental needs