Oral treatments

What is Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF) Treatment?

SDF treatment is to apply Silver Diamine Fluoride to the decayed tissue of the teeth to stop the progression of tooth decay.

Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF) solution

Ingredients

  • contains silver and fluoride ions

Uses

  • inhibit bacteria
  • strengthen tooth structure

  • slow down the progression of tooth decay

    Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF) solution.Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF) solution

SDF treatment is suitable for children who:

  • have multiple tooth decay
  • are prone to having tooth decay

  • are not able to comply with restorative treatment

    Child with multiple tooth decay.

Who apply SDF for the children?

The application of SDF to suitable children is restricted to dentists or qualified allied dental professionals under the supervision of dentists.

Dentist or qualified allied dental professional applying SDF for a child.

Treatment Procedure

  • Relatively simple and usually pain-free

  • It is applied simply to the decayed tissue with a small brush. No special dental equipment is required

    A decayed tooth before and after SDF treatment. (Before)Before
    A decayed tooth before and after SDF treatment. (After)After

Advantages of SDF

  • Effective in stopping the progression of tooth decay
  • No special dental tools are required to remove the decayed part of the tooth, hence it is more acceptable to children
  • A generally simple and pain-free procedure
  • Safe with rare occurrence of adverse reactions

Points to note upon SDF treatment

  • After application of SDF, the decayed tissue of the tooth will harden and turn black permanently

    After application of SDF, the decayed tissue of the tooth will harden and turn black permanently.
  • SDF may cause mild discomfort or temporary greying / whitening of the gums, oral mucosa or skin. These signs and symptoms will gradually subside in a few weeks
  • SDF may leave a slight metallic taste in the mouth which usually only lasts for a few hours

  • Children are advised not to eat or drink for 60 minutes after SDF treatment

    Children are advised not to eat or drink for 60 minutes after SDF treatment.

  • Children should build up a good dietary habit and proper oral care practice to slow down the progression of tooth decay. SDF treatment is generally effective until the treated primary teeth fall out

    Children should build up a good dietary habit and proper oral care practice.

  • Children are advised to regularly visit the dentist who will monitor the decay condition and determine if any further treatment (e.g. repeated application of SDF, fillings) is needed

    Children are advised to visit the dentist regularly.