Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF)

Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF)

Silver diamine fluoride (SDF) is a liquid mixture of silver and fluoride that was originally developed as a topical medication for sensitive teeth. It was later found to help stop or slow dental cavities by killing cariogenic (cavity-causing) bacteria with the silver component and remineralizing the eroded enamel with fluoride. SDF has been used in pediatric dentistry for almost a decade as a tool to”buy time” for young children who cannot yet tolerate dental treatment. The SDF is applied to cavities to slow or stop the cavity process. It also reduces sensitivity as an added benefit. It is quick to apply and painless to the patient. The one downside is that due to the silver in the liquid, the parts of the enamel that have cavities will turn a dark gray or black in color. This dark staining can later be removed and covered with white fillings or crowns. For more information on SDF, please see the American Dental Society website found here.