The appearance of teeth with a metallic, silver-like sheen in children is primarily due to the use of silver diamine fluoride (SDF). This liquid substance is applied directly to areas of tooth decay, halting the progression of cavities. The decayed areas treated with SDF turn black, giving the teeth a silver or dark appearance.
SDF application offers significant advantages, particularly for young children, individuals with special needs, or those with limited access to dental care. It is a non-invasive and painless method of arresting tooth decay, preventing the need for more complex and costly treatments like fillings or extractions. Historically, options for managing decay in these populations were limited, making SDF a valuable tool in preventative dental medicine.