What is SDF?
Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF) is an FDA-approved topical solution that treats and prevents dental cavities and reduces tooth sensitivity. It is made with two acting ingredients: the silver component is an anti-microbial agent that kills bacteria and prevents the formation of new biofilm, and the fluoride prevents further demineralization (softening) of the tooth structure.
![Tallahassee SDF Silver Diamine Fluoride](https://tallahasseepediatricdentistry.com/wp-content/uploads/Tallahassee-SDF-Silver-Diamine-Fluoride.jpg)
Treatment with SDF does not eliminate the need for restorative dentistry (fillings, crowns, etc.) to repair function or aesthetics, but is effective at preventing further decay.
SDF is a simple and noninvasive way to treat carious lesions (cavities), and it can be done from the comfort of our dental office.
• The teeth are brushed without paste and rinsed.
• The carious teeth are isolated, kept dry, and all excess debris is removed.
• A microbrush is dipped in a drop of SDF and placed on the lesion(s) for two minutes.
• Any decayed areas will stain black. Healthy tooth structure will not stain.
• Excess SDF is removed and patients are instructed to not eat or drink for one hour.
Why Use SDF?
We recommend using SDF in several situations, including:
• Children who have extreme decay (severe early childhood caries)
• Young children who have difficulty sitting still for treatment
• Special needs patients
• Children with carious lesions (cavities) that need to be treated over several visits
The Advantages of SDF:
• Quick, easy, painless – requires little cooperation
• Provides immediate relief from tooth hypersensitivity
• Kills the organisms that cause cavities
• Hardens softened dentin making it more acid- and abrasion-resistant
• Does not stain healthy dentin or enamel
• Avoid/delay more invasive restorations
The Disadvantages of SDF:
• Permanently stains cavities black
• Cavities that trap food, eventually require a restoration
• Not good long-term option for deep cavities
• Requires reapplication if treatment isn’t rendered promptly
Healthy diet and oral hygiene (daily brushing and flossing) are critical for success