Your dentist has recommended Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF) or Silver Fluoride (SF) liquid as a treatment option for management of tooth decay.
What is SDF or SF liquid?
SDF or SF liquid contains silver and fluoride which work together to stop decay progressing further.
It is a clear liquid, which has a temporary metallic taste while it is being painted on to teeth.
It is useful for
- very young patients or patients whose cooperation may limit other treatment options
- for patients whilst they wait for treatment with sedation or general anaesthetic (GA)
- Or as part of acclimatisation prior to carrying out further treatment.
The benefits of SDF or SF
- It is a simple treatment
- It can stop decay progressing which reduces the risk of toothache or infection.
The risks of SDF or SF
- If it does not stop the decay progressing, other treatment will still be needed such as fillings or tooth removal
- It can temporarily stain lips, cheeks, or gums and this usually lasts for 1-3 weeks
- It can also stain tooth-coloured fillings or clothes which may not come out.
What is involved in the treatment?
- Your dentist will first put on petroleum jelly (such as vaseline) and place cotton wool next to the teeth to be treated
- The teeth need to be dry
- The SDF or SF liquid is painted on to the teeth for 1-3 minutes
- Sometimes, the dentist will place a filling over the top
- SDF or SF can be reapplied every 6 months.
SDF or SF cannot be used
- If you have painful gums, sores or ulcers in your mouth
- If there is damage to the nerve in the tooth or signs of infection
- Allergy to any ingredient including silver and other heavy metals, fluoride, potassium, iodine, ammonia and methacrylate (although SF liquid does NOT contain ammonia)
- In pregnancy or if breastfeeding
- For patients undergoing thyroid gland treatment.
Other things I should know
SDF is fully licensed in many countries around the world where it has been safely used for many years. In the UK it is licensed for treating sensitivity only and has not been widely used for treating tooth decay until recently. It can be used for this reason ‘off-label’.
If you have any other questions, please ask your dentist.
Other useful information and videos can be found here:
British Society of Pediatric Dentistry
Contact us
Monday – Thursday, 8.30am – 5.00pm
Friday, 8.30am – 4.30pm
St Catherine’s Health Centre Dental Clinic – 0151 514 6420
Victoria Central Health Centre Dental Clinic – 0151 514 6266
Leasowe Dental Clinic – 0151 514 2340
Out of Hours
Out of Hours Service – 111
Revive Dental Care – 0161 476 9651
