Silver Diamine Fluoride

Silver Diamine Fluoride

Silver diamine fluoride (SDF) is a liquid treatment brushed directly onto a tooth to slow or stop active decay. It works without drilling or numbing, which makes it a conservative option worth discussing for young children, patients with dental anxiety, or anyone who needs a decay-management step before or instead of a restoration. At Ohio Family Dentistry, Dr. Afshan Sultan, DDS can evaluate whether SDF is appropriate for your situation.

How SDF Helps

• Needle-free application — the solution is painted on in seconds, with no anesthesia required.
• Arrests early decay — it can slow the progression of a cavity, buying time or reducing the need for more invasive treatment.
• Well suited to sensitive cases — often considered for young children, patients with special care needs, or anyone who finds traditional drilling stressful.

What to Expect

SDF darkens the treated area of decay, which is a normal and expected part of how it works. Depending on the tooth and the extent of decay, it may be used as a standalone measure or alongside other treatments like fillings or sealants.

Comfort-Focused Care

• Noise-Canceling Headphones — available to help ease anxiety during any in-office procedure.
• Nitrous Oxide Sedation — an option for patients who feel nervous, even for a quick, needle-free treatment like SDF.

This content is for general information only and isn't dental or medical advice. Talk with a qualified provider about your own situation. If you have a medical emergency, call 911.