Treating a Cavity with Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF)

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HealthWiki > Where There Is No Dentist > Chapter 10: How to Treat a Cavity > Treating a Cavity with Silver Diamine Fluoride

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In this chapter:

 

In this chapter:

Silver diamine fluoride (SDF) is a colorless liquid put on teeth with a small brush. The silver in SDF kills germs that cause a cavity, stopping tooth decay and preventing the cavity from getting worse. The fluoride in SDF slows tooth decay and also helps repair the damaged tooth.

SDF is painless and easy to use. It works well for children, for anyone who has difficulty sitting for a long time to get dental work, and for anyone who is fearful of needles and dental drills.

For cavities that are not severe or that are on baby teeth, treating with SDF is all that is needed. For cavities that are more severe or that are on permanent teeth, treating with SDF can be the first step before placing a permanent filling using Atraumatic Restorative Treatment.

Note: SDF will darken cavities after treatment. The person may also notice a bitter or metallic taste in their mouth right after treatment. If SDF is spilled on clothing or surfaces, it will cause a permanent stain.

{box} To treat a cavity with SDF, follow these 5 steps:

1. Dry the cavity and keep it dry.
2. Put SDF on the cavity until it stays wet.
3. Wait 10 seconds.
4. Remove any excess SDF.
5. Protect the cavity from saliva for 1 minute.

1. Dry the cavity and keep it dry. The cavity and the area around it must be dry so you can see what you are doing and so the SDF will be absorbed. Place cotton between the cheek and gums to keep the area dry. Put some cotton under the tongue when you work on a lower tooth.
2. Put 38% silver diamine fluoride solution directly on the cavity. The cavity will absorb it. Put more SDF on the cavity every 5 to 10 seconds until the entire cavity stays wet.
3. Wait 10 seconds for the SDF to absorb into the cavity. Do not rinse the tooth or dry it with cotton or air.
4. After 10 seconds, remove any excess SDF from the cavity with cotton. The cavity should look moist when you are finished.
5. Protect the cavity from saliva for 1 minute more before removing the cotton from the person’s mouth.

If the cavity is in a permanent tooth and is deep or severe, you may need to place a permanent filling by Atraumatic Restorative Treatment after treating with SDF.