What is silver diamine fluoride treatment for baby teeth and how much does it cost?
Some still believe that baby teeth don’t need treatment because they eventually fall out and are replaced by permanent teeth. This is a misconception. The health of primary teeth plays a key role in the long-term development of a child’s oral health. To prevent tooth decay – one of the most common oral conditions in children – a dentist may recommend a procedure known as silver diamine fluoride treatment, also referred to as SDF treatment or “lapisowanie.” What does this treatment involve? What are the stages of the procedure, and how much does it cost?
What is SDF treatment for baby teeth?
SDF treatment is performed in a dental office and involves saturating the surface of a child’s tooth with a special liquid that creates a protective barrier against decay. The procedure helps prevent the premature loss of baby teeth and protects the oral cavity from future complications. It works by stopping early-stage cavities from progressing and reinforcing the affected teeth.
There are two main types of SDF treatment, depending on the solution used. The first method uses silver nitrate, typically in a 10–40% concentration depending on the extent of the decay. Silver nitrate, also known as lunar caustic, is colorless but leaves dark stains on the skin and teeth. It also has antibacterial properties. The second method uses zinc chloride in a 30–50% concentration. This version is often referred to as clear or white SDF treatment. Zinc chloride is commonly used in other industries, but in dentistry, it’s applied to affected baby teeth for its disinfecting properties. However, it’s generally considered less effective than silver nitrate.
The use of silver nitrate may cause treated baby teeth to turn black due to the formation of silver proteins on the tooth surface. In contrast, zinc chloride changes the color only of the decayed areas. While the aesthetic outcome may vary, both solutions help stop the progression of decay.
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How does SDF treatment work for children?
The process of treating baby teeth with SDF is straightforward and relatively quick. First, the dentist cleans the teeth using a small brush and hydrogen peroxide. The gums and mucosa are isolated to avoid irritation, and the tooth surface is thoroughly dried. The tooth is then treated with the disinfecting solution – either silver nitrate or zinc chloride – and a special chemical agent called a reducer is applied to activate the treatment. After the procedure, the child should refrain from eating and drinking for at least two hours.
The entire process takes around five minutes. For optimal results, the treatment should be repeated three times at intervals of three weeks. Some dental offices offer all three applications in a single visit. It’s important to note that SDF treatment does not cure decay but rather halts its progression and strengthens the affected teeth.
How much does SDF treatment for baby teeth cost?
The cost of silver diamine fluoride treatment varies depending on several factors, including the number of teeth being treated, the reputation of the clinic, and the location. In private dental clinics, a single session usually costs around 100 PLN. However, in clinics with a contract with the National Health Fund (NFZ), the treatment may be free of charge. In such cases, patients should expect a waiting period before receiving the service.
