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SDF in Dentistry: How Silver Diamine Fluoride Stops Cavities Without Drilling
Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF) is a painless, drill-free cavity treatment that stops decay in its tracks. Learn how it works, who it is for, and the cost.
Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF) is one of the most exciting developments in preventive dentistry — a simple liquid that can stop cavities without drilling, without anesthesia, and without pain.
## What Is Silver Diamine Fluoride?
SDF is a colorless liquid containing silver, fluoride, and ammonia. When applied to a cavity, it kills bacteria that cause decay, hardens the softened tooth structure, and stops the cavity from growing further. The application takes less than 2 minutes.
## Benefits of SDF
1. No drilling — perfect for patients with dental anxiety2. No anesthesia — no needles, no numbness3. Painless — ideal for children and sensitive patients4. Fast — applied in under 2 minutes5. Affordable — much less than a filling6. Prevents further decay
## Who Is SDF For?
SDF is ideal for children who can't sit still for traditional fillings, patients with dental anxiety, seniors with limited mobility, patients with multiple cavities, and baby teeth.
## The One Drawback
SDF permanently stains the treated area dark brown/black. For this reason, it is most commonly used on back teeth (molars) where the stain is not visible.
## Cost of SDF Treatment
SDF treatment is very affordable — typically $25-$75 per tooth, compared to $200-$450 for a traditional filling. Most insurance plans cover SDF as a preventive or basic service.
## Ask About SDF at Your Next Visit
At Ari Dental, we offer SDF treatment at all three downtown Toronto studios. Call 416-977-1414 to book.
## What Is Silver Diamine Fluoride?
SDF is a colorless liquid containing silver, fluoride, and ammonia. When applied to a cavity, it kills bacteria that cause decay, hardens the softened tooth structure, and stops the cavity from growing further. The application takes less than 2 minutes.
## Benefits of SDF
1. No drilling — perfect for patients with dental anxiety2. No anesthesia — no needles, no numbness3. Painless — ideal for children and sensitive patients4. Fast — applied in under 2 minutes5. Affordable — much less than a filling6. Prevents further decay
## Who Is SDF For?
SDF is ideal for children who can't sit still for traditional fillings, patients with dental anxiety, seniors with limited mobility, patients with multiple cavities, and baby teeth.
## The One Drawback
SDF permanently stains the treated area dark brown/black. For this reason, it is most commonly used on back teeth (molars) where the stain is not visible.
## Cost of SDF Treatment
SDF treatment is very affordable — typically $25-$75 per tooth, compared to $200-$450 for a traditional filling. Most insurance plans cover SDF as a preventive or basic service.
## Ask About SDF at Your Next Visit
At Ari Dental, we offer SDF treatment at all three downtown Toronto studios. Call 416-977-1414 to book.