Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF) is an antibiotic liquid that can help stop tooth decay. It can postpone the need for traditional dental treatment (i.e. fillings, crowns, pulpal therapy) and delay or possibly eliminate the need for sedation/general anesthesia to complete dental treatment. While SDF can treat the bacteria causing tooth decay, it will not restore the tooth structure that has already been affected. Although chances are smaller, tooth decay is still possible after Silver Diamine Fluoride treatment and could require additional dental treatments.

Things to remember when SDF is placed:

• The decayed area of the tooth will stain black permanently. However, the healthy tooth structure will not stain.
• Tooth-colored fillings and crowns may discolor if SDF is applied to them.
• If SDF contacts the gums or skin, a brown or white stain may appear. This staining is harmless; however, it cannot be washed off. The discoloration will resolve in 1-3 weeks.