Silver Diamine Fluoride - SDF - Children's Dentistry

The use of Silver Diamine Fluoride in dentistry is well documented for its ability to stop decay noninvasively. Using SDF is a conservative approach to treating decay, especially in baby teeth that will be lost in a few years. Our doctors and their team can discuss with you if Silver Diamine Fluoride treatment is right for your child.

What is Silver Diamine Fluoride?

Silver Diamine Fluoride, or SDF, is an FDA-approved antibiotic liquid that, when applied topically, can stop decay from progressing. While this treatment probably won’t prevent the need for a restoration in the future, it has been proven effective in stopping further decay until either the baby tooth is lost, or a more permanent means of repair, like a filling or crown, can be performed.

The Procedure

After the treatment area is isolated and dried, the doctor applies the Silver Diamine Fluoride to the decay using a small brush. Then, a fluoride-infused sealer is placed over the Silver Diamine Fluoride so it can work its magic undisturbed.

A follow-up appointment about a week later makes sure the Silver Diamine Fluoride is working, and a second application is applied.

After your child’s procedure, daily home treatment with a fluoride rinse (like ACT) is recommended, as is twice daily brushing with a fluoridated toothpaste.

What to Expect After Treatment

After your child’s appointment, you may notice some discoloration where the SDF made contact with the surrounding tissue of the gum, skin or an existing restoration. The decayed area where the Silver Diamine Fluoride was applied will also turn dark. This is an indication that the SDF is working and is perfectly natural.

Silver Diamine Fluoride is a safe, FDA-approved, effective way to stop decay. However, if your child has a silver sensitivity, please let us know before their appointment.

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Silver Diamine Fluoride FAQs

What are the side effects of silver diamine fluoride?

Silver diamine fluoride is safe for children and adults, but it does have a few side effects. The most noticeable one is that it permanently stains the decayed part of the tooth black. Healthy tooth areas are not affected, but the dark color can make cavities more visible. SDF may also temporarily stain gums, lips, or skin if it touches them during treatment, but these marks usually go away in a few days. A small number of patients may feel mild irritation in the gums or mouth after the treatment. Allergic reactions are very rare, but they can happen, especially in people sensitive to silver.

Can you be allergic to SDF?

Allergic reactions to silver diamine fluoride are very rare, but they can happen. Because SDF contains silver and ammonia, some patients may experience irritation, rash, or sensitivity. Signs of an allergy could include redness, swelling, itching, or discomfort in the mouth after treatment.

If your child has a known silver or metal allergy, it’s important to tell your dentist before using SDF. They can recommend a different treatment option if there’s any concern about an allergic reaction.

How do you remove SDF stains from teeth?

One side effect of SDF is that it can leave dark stains on decayed areas of teeth. These black or brown marks show where the tooth was weakened, and they mean the SDF is working to stop the cavity from spreading.

Unfortunately, these stains cannot be brushed or rinsed away at home. If the stains are on baby teeth, many parents choose to leave them until the teeth naturally fall out. On adult teeth, your dentist can recommend cosmetic dental options.

What is the difference between nano silver fluoride and silver diamine fluoride?

Nano silver fluoride (NSF) and silver diamine fluoride (SDF) are both used to fight cavities without drilling. While SDF is more common and very effective, it turns the decayed part of the tooth black, which some parents and kids don’t like. Nano silver fluoride is a new, less common option that also helps stop tooth decay, but without the dark staining.