​

What is Silver Diamine Fluoride?

Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF) is a clear liquid that can be used to help prevent cavities from growing, particularly in children. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentists (AAPD) recognizes SDF as a way to potentially prevent or delay the need for more extensive and expensive procedures, such as fillings, crowns, or extractions. SDF can also delay or possibly eliminate the need for sedation or general anesthesia to complete dental treatment. SDF is recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) as a quick way to help stop or slow down cavities.

How Does SDF Work?

SDF works by killing bacteria, promoting enamel remineralization, forming a protective barrier, and regulating pH levels in the oral cavity. These actions help to prevent and slow the progression of dental cavities. When SDF is applied to a cavity, it forms a dark brown or black stain on the tooth surface which creates a protective barrier over the decayed area.

​

Benefits of Treatment with SDF:

• SDF can help stop tooth decay by minimizing bacteria within the decay and helping to strengthen the healthy portion of my tooth.
• SDF can help relieve some tooth sensitivity.
• SDF can be an effective tool for those patients that are very young, fearful or have special needs that may otherwise require sedation for traditional dental treatment.

Risks Associated with the use of SDF include, but are not limited to:

• The area of decay will turn black permanently. The healthy tooth structure surrounding the decay will remain tooth colored. The stained tooth structure can be replaced with a filling or crown in the future.
• If SDF accidentally contacts skin or gum tissue it will also stain these areas a brown or white color. This causes no harm and will disappear in one to three weeks, similar to staining from a henna tattoo.
• You may notice a metallic taste that will go away rapidly. Fluoride varnish is used to mask this taste as well as help strengthen your healthy tooth structure surrounding the decay.
• There is a risk that the procedure will not stop the progression of decay, and no guarantee of success is granted or implied.
• If tooth decay is not arrested, the decay will progress. In that case, the tooth will require further treatment, such as repeat SDF, a filling or crown, nerve treatment, or extraction.

Will Dr. Laura Recommend SDF For My Child?

SDF is a common choice for board-certified pediatric dentists like Dr. Laura because of its effectiveness, but not all patients and not all areas of decay are candidates for treatment with SDF.

It can be applied within a few minutes, which is helpful for younger patients who may not be able to sit still for long. Dr. Laura and her team use the most up-to-date, evidence-based treatment options, and they will carefully review your child’s individual needs before making any recommendations! Contact us today if you would like more information about Silver Diamine Fluoride, or to make an appointment for your child!