Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF) is a liquid made of silver and fluoride.
It’s a clear liquid that’s put on teeth by your dentist. It helps stop childrens tooth decay from getting worse and make teeth less sensitive.
It works best when combined with other things like brushing with fluoride toothpaste and eating fewer sugary foods.
Why Should You Use SDF?
If you have tooth decay, it can get worse quickly, especially in baby teeth.
SDF helps stop the decay from getting worse.
With good toothbrushing and changing your diet, SDF can help save your teeth.
How Does it Work?
- Before SDF is applied: Your dentist will put petroleum jelly on your lips and gums and small cotton rolls near your teeth to keep them dry.
- Applying SDF: Your dentist paints the SDF liquid on the affected teeth. It stays on for about 1-3 minutes, and then the teeth are dried again. Sometimes, your dentist will add a filling if needed. This whole process happens in one visit!
- SDF can be reapplied every 6 months.
How to Prepare
You don’t need to do anything to prepare for this treatment. But, SDF should not be used if your child:
- Is allergic to silver or other heavy metals.
- Has painful gums, ulcers, or sores in the mouth.
Make sure to tell the dentist if any of these apply to your child.
What Are the Benefits of SDF?
- Quick and Easy: SDF is a fast treatment and is great for children, especially those who are nervous.
- Prevents More Problems: It helps stop decay.
- Reduces Sensitivity: SDF can also help with tooth sensitivity.
Are There Any Risks?
- Staining: After the treatment, the teeth will turn a dark brown or black colour, which won’t go away.
- Staining Skin and Gums: If SDF touches skin or gums, it may cause a brown stain. This stain is harmless and will disappear in 2-3 weeks.
- Other Staining: SDF can stain clothes and surfaces, but the team will protect your child’s clothing with a bib.
SDF is a safe, easy way to slow or stop tooth decay. It can help avoid more painful treatments and help keep teeth healthy for longer. However, sometimes more treatment might be needed to completely stop decay.
This information has been adapting from British Society of Paediatric Dentistry Information Leaflet “Silver Diamide Fluoride (SDF) Liquid Treatment”
Learn more about SDF from the following video produced by British Society of Paediatric Dentistry: Video Explaining Silver Diamide Fluoride
Link for video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qHz8CT_rNMM