Hearing your child has a cavity can cause a wave of concern, especially when you imagine noisy drills and anxious little ones in the dental chair. At Marshfield Pediatric Dentistry, we believe that protecting your child’s smile shouldn't come with added stress.
That’s why Dr. Julie Hantson and Dr. Amanda Alon offer a gentle, non-invasive treatment option called silver diamine fluoride (SDF). This quick, pain-free solution treats early cavities without drilling, helping kids feel safe, relaxed, and comfortable every step of the way.
What Is Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF)?
Silver diamine fluoride is a liquid medication applied directly to a cavity to stop the progression of tooth decay. It’s a game-changer for kids who feel nervous about traditional dental procedures or who may not yet be ready for more extensive treatment.
SDF combines anti-bacterial silver with fluoride to not only halt decay but also strengthen the tooth surface. Here’s why parents love it:
- No drilling or injections: SDF is applied using a small brush. There is no need for numbing or noisy tools.
- Fast and easy: The treatment takes just minutes and is completely painless.
- Ideal for young children: Perfect for toddlers, special needs patients, or kids with dental anxiety.
How Silver Diamine Fluoride Works to Stop Cavities
When applied to a cavity, SDF works by killing bacteria that cause decay and sealing the dentin layer of the tooth. This process effectively halts the advancement of the cavity, buying time for permanent teeth to come in or for future restorative options when the child is older or more comfortable in the dental chair. SDF can be especially helpful for:
- Small cavities in baby teeth
- Children who are not good candidates for sedation
- Cavities in difficult-to-treat areas
The primary drawback is that silver diamine fluoride does stain the decayed portion of the tooth a dark color. For this reason, Dr. Julie and Dr. Amanda typically only recommend SDF for cavities in baby teeth, since the stains will not be an issue once your child’s adult teeth emerge.
Why Families at Marshfield Pediatric Dentistry Trust SDF Treatment
As both a mom and a board-certified pediatric dentist, Dr. Julie Hantson understands the importance of compassionate, personalized care that keeps both children and their parents at ease.
Together with Dr. Amanda Alon, she uses her expertise to ensure that every option presented, including silver diamine fluoride, is aligned with your child’s comfort and long-term dental health. Patients benefit from:
- A family-first approach that prioritizes emotional and physical well-being
- Kid-friendly office design with TVs, toys, and themed décor to keep young patients smiling
- Educated guidance on cavity prevention through ongoing visits, sealants, and fluoride treatments
When Is SDF the Right Choice for Your Child?
SDF isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution, but it’s an excellent temporary treatment for many children, especially for treating cavities in baby teeth. In many cases, SDF delays the need for a filling until your child is older, or until their decayed baby tooth is replaced with an adult tooth This makes it a gentle first step in cavity care.
Dr. Julie and Dr. Amanda thoroughly assess each child’s case and discuss all treatment options with parents, ensuring you feel confident in your decision. And with the availability of same-day and emergency appointments, families have the peace of mind knowing care is always within reach when it’s needed most.
Gentle Cavity Care for Kids in Marshfield
If you’re concerned about a cavity in your child’s tooth and want a safe, drill-free option, silver diamond fluoride could be the answer. The caring team at Marshfield Pediatric Dentistry is here to answer your questions and guide you through gentle treatments designed around your child’s comfort. Call (781) 205-1124 today to schedule an appointment in Marshfield and give your child a positive, stress-free dental experience.
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