Silver Diamine Fluoride

Stopping Cavities in Their Tracks—Without the Drill

At Tooth Patrol Pediatric Dentistry, we believe that prevention is the best approach to children’s oral health—but when cavities do start to form, we’re proud to offer Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF) as a gentle, non-invasive treatment option. SDF is a liquid solution used to stop the progression of early tooth decay—no numbing, drilling, or discomfort required.

This makes SDF an excellent choice for young children, children with special needs, or those who may not yet be ready for traditional dental restorations. With offices in Moorestown and Cherry Hill, we’re here to provide safe and effective cavity care that puts your child’s comfort first.

What Is Silver Diamine Fluoride?

Silver Diamine Fluoride is a topical medication made of silver, fluoride, water, and ammonia. Each ingredient plays a vital role:

Silver acts as an antimicrobial to kill cavity-causing bacteria.
Fluoride helps strengthen enamel and prevent future decay.
Together, they work to halt the spread of tooth decay and protect the tooth from further damage.

SDF is applied directly to the area of decay using a small brush or micro-applicator. It’s completely non-invasive and can be used on both baby and permanent teeth.

When Is SDF Used?

At Tooth Patrol, we recommend Silver Diamine Fluoride for a variety of situations, especially when traditional treatments may not be ideal. SDF may be a great option for:

Very young children who have difficulty sitting through restorative procedures
Kids with special healthcare needs who may benefit from minimally invasive care
Children with early-stage cavities that don’t yet require fillings
Families seeking to delay or avoid sedation or drilling

While SDF does not “fill” a cavity or restore tooth structure, it can buy time or serve as an alternative when immediate treatment isn’t possible.

What to Expect During the Procedure

SDF application is quick, simple, and completely painless:

The tooth is isolated and gently dried.
A small amount of SDF is brushed onto the cavity.
The solution dries within seconds and begins working immediately.

There is no need for numbing, drilling, or discomfort—and your child can resume eating and drinking shortly after the appointment.