Silver Diamine Fluoride

To stop tooth decay quickly, without pain and injection in certain cases where once drilling and restorations were necessary.

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What is Silver Diamine Fluoride?
Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF) is a liquid used on cavities to arrest tooth decay. In some cases where dentists were used to do regular dental restorations, it is now possible to use an atraumatic, non-invasive treatment to stop the caries process. It can also help relieve sensitivity.
 

How does SDF work?
The silver ions acts as an antimicrobial agent against the caries, while the fluoride ion acts to prevent further demineralization. For which situations is SDF ideal?

• Around margins of restorations to prevent secondary decay,
• To avoid general anesthesisa or oral sedation
• If you are anxious with dental treatments
• For cavities that cannot be treated in 1 visit
• If you have
  - Difficult access to dental care
  - Difficult to treat dental caries
  - A high risk of developing caries
• Adults, elderly patients and kids of any age!
 

Does SDF replace all regular dental restorations?
No. SDF can be used to stop the cavity and give you time before you choose to have it removed and filled.
In certain cases, the cavity does not need to be removed and SDF is used to simply stop it’s process.
 

Are there any post treatment instructions?

There are no postoperative limitations. You may eat or drink immediately and proceed with your regular dental care routine at home.

Are there any risks?
SDF will stain demineralized areas and soft-tissues brown or black. It does not stain healthy teeth.
Is there a way to minimize stain?

Your dentist will be able to reduce the dark appearance by applying a dental restorations called composites, glass
ionomer, composites, amalgams or crowns.

How long do the effects last?
If your dentist applied any type of restoration, the SDF will be better protected. In that case, it is possible that no
further treatment is necessary. If no restoration was applied, or if the caries was more severe, it is recommended to
re-apply SDF every 6 to 12 months.

Is SDF indicated for kids?
SDF is indicated by Health Canada to be used on children 3 years and older.
Scientific literature shows that SDF is also completely safe for kids under 3 years old.