Information
- SDF is an antibiotic and tooth remineralizing liquid/medication.
- Studies show it can:
- Prevent over 75% of cavities from getting larger
- Prevent new cavities from forming
- Decrease tooth sensitivity
- SDF treatment does not replace the need for fillings or crowns to restore lost tooth structure and function.
- Procedure:
- Dry the affected area
- Apply SDF solution with a small brush
- Allow to dry
- Multiple applications may be needed
- Do not use if patient has:
- Allergy to silver
- Painful sores in mouth or gums
Benefits
- Temporary stabilization/arrest of decay and prevention of new decay
- Allows time for emotional or physical maturity before more definitive treatment (fillings or crowns)
- Ideal for:
- Young or fearful patients
- Those with special healthcare needs
- Patients wishing to avoid sedation
- FDA-approved for reducing tooth sensitivity
Risks
- Turns decayed areas of treated teeth dark black (can be covered later with a filling or crown)
- Surrounding skin/gum tissue may turn brown or white temporarily (harmless but cannot be washed off)
- Decay may still progress; tooth could require more extensive treatment later (crowns, root canals, extractions)
- No guarantee of success
- May not be covered by insurance, or may share frequency limits with restorations
Alternatives to SDF
- No treatment — risk of worsening decay, pain, infection, abscess
- Fluoride varnish — less effective than SDF (about 3× less effective) but no tooth discoloration
- SDF + temporary filling — improves success and restores some function/appearance
- Definitive treatment — fillings, crowns, or extractions with sedation if needed