Silver Diamine Fluoride Doesn’t Stain Sound Tooth Structure
Silver diamine fluoride (SDF) is an increasingly popular treatment in dentistry, primarily due to its efficacy in arresting dental caries. Yet we may forget that it is amazing for sensitivity which is its on-label use. SDF is a topical medicament that combines the antibacterial properties of silver with the remineralizing effects of fluoride. The application of SDF is minimally invasive and painless, making it an attractive option for pediatric and geriatric patients, as well as those with dental anxiety. Studies have shown that SDF can effectively halt the progression of caries, reducing the need for more invasive treatments like drilling and fillings .
One of the main indications for SDF use is in primary teeth, especially in children who may not tolerate conventional restorative procedures well. SDF is also indicated for root caries in older adults, which are challenging to treat due to the difficulty of maintaining moisture control and the high likelihood of recurrent decay. Additionally, SDF can be used as an interim measure to stabilize carious lesions until definitive treatment can be provided, which I do often in homebound settings.
A notable advantage of SDF is that it does not cause staining on sound tooth structure. While one of the common concerns with SDF is its potential to stain decayed areas black, but this does not affect healthy enamel and dentin. This selective staining property allows clinicians to distinguish between arrested carious lesions and healthy tooth structure easily. The non-staining characteristic on sound tooth surfaces makes SDF an excellent choice for patients concerned about the esthetic outcomes of their treatment. We recently posted a case study where we placed it on sensitivity on sound tooth structure and 1 month after, there was no staining. You can check it out HERE
As dental professionals continue to seek minimally invasive and patient-friendly treatment options, SDF stands out as a valuable tool in the prevention and management of dental caries .
-Shelley Brown, MEd, BSDH, FADHA
Crystal, Y. O., & Niederman, R. (2019). Silver diamine fluoride treatment considerations in children’s caries management. Pediatric Dentistry, 41(5), 292-298.
Horst, J. A., Ellenikiotis, H., & Milgrom, P. L. (2016). UCSF Protocol for Caries Arrest Using Silver Diamine Fluoride: Rationale, Indications, and Consent. Journal of the California Dental Association, 44(1), 16-28.
Clemens, J., Gold, J., & Chaffin, J. (2018). Effect and acceptance of silver diamine fluoride treatment on dental caries in primary teeth. Journal of Public Health Dentistry, 78(1), 63-68.
Gao, S. S., Zhao, I. S., Hiraishi, N., Duangthip, D., Mei, M. L., Lo, E. C., & Chu, C. H. (2016). Clinical trials of silver diamine fluoride in arresting caries among children: A systematic review. Journal of Dentistry, 44, 102-110.
Seifo, N., Cassie, H., Radford, J. R., & Innes, N. P. (2020). Silver diamine fluoride for managing carious lesions: An umbrella review. BMC Oral Health, 20(1), 145.
