A Safe, Non-Invasive Way to Stop Cavities in Kids
At Pediatric Dentistry of Reston, we believe in using the least invasive, most effective treatments to protect your child’s smile. One of the most exciting advancements in pediatric dentistry is Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF)—a gentle, drill-free way to stop cavities before they get worse.
Led by Drs. Neda Kalantar, Zaidi and Fernandes, our practice offers SDF treatment for children in Reston, VA, as a convenient option for managing early tooth decay—especially in young, nervous, or special needs patients.
What Is Silver Diamine Fluoride?
Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF) is a liquid solution made of:
- Silver – kills bacteria and strengthens the tooth
- Fluoride – helps remineralize and protect the enamel
When applied to a cavity, SDF halts the decay process, preventing it from spreading deeper into the tooth. It’s an excellent option for treating small cavities in baby teeth without the need for drilling, numbing, or fillings.
Benefits of SDF Treatment for Children
- Non-invasive and pain-free
- No drilling or numbing required
- Quick and easy application—just a few minutes
- Ideal for young, anxious, or special needs children
- Helps delay or avoid more extensive treatment
- Approved by the FDA for cavity control
SDF is especially useful when a child is too young to tolerate traditional treatment or when we want to monitor the tooth until it naturally falls out.
What to Expect During SDF Treatment
SDF is applied during a regular dental visit:
- Dr. Kalantar cleans and dries the affected tooth.
- A small amount of SDF is applied directly to the cavity with a microbrush.
- The liquid dries quickly, and no rinsing is needed.
- Your child can eat and drink shortly afterward.
The process is completely painless and takes just minutes—no shots, drills, or sedation required.
Will SDF Turn My Child’s Tooth Black?
Yes, one of the side effects of SDF is that the treated area of the tooth will turn dark or black—a sign that the decay has been successfully stopped. This staining only affects the decayed portion, not the healthy part of the tooth.
For front teeth or more visible areas, Dr. Kalantar will discuss aesthetic options, such as covering the area with a white filling or crown if needed in the future.
Is SDF Right for My Child?
Silver Diamine Fluoride is ideal for:
- Treating cavities in baby teeth
- Kids who are very young or anxious
- Children with special healthcare needs
- Families looking to delay or avoid drilling
- Temporary treatment while planning further dental care
Dr. Kalantar will always evaluate your child’s individual needs and help you decide if SDF is the right choice.
Schedule a Visit with Dr. Neda Kalantar
Interested in a gentler option for treating cavities? Call Pediatric Dentistry of Reston at (703) 435-1500 to schedule an appointment with us. We’ll explain all your options and help protect your child’s smile with safe, effective cavity care.