And if that wasnt enough to smile about, SDF is also easier to use and cheaper than sealants.
Think of it as infection control.
What Is Silver Diamine Fluoride?
Elena Popova / Getty Images
SDF is a colorless, alkaline antibacterial liquid consisting of silver, fluoride, and ammonia.
The app process is simple, but it must be done by a licensed clinician.
The first step is to place the liquid on the tooth surface, followed by a one-minute soak.
Then, a fluoride varnish is added.
The whole process is much simpler than traditional resin dental sealants, which can be time-consuming and technique-sensitive.
However, it isnt as effective when used on deep decay.
We especially use it a lot on our elderly population.
Is SDF Better than Traditional Sealants for Adults?
Dental sealants are routinely used to prevent cavities from forming in the first place.
A key way that sealants and SDF differ is by their mechanisms of action.
If youre not sure, its best to ask your dentist or hygienist for advice.
Talk with your dentist or hygienist about which treatment will help you take care of your smile best.
2024;178(4):354-361. doi:10.1001/jamapediatrics.2023.6770
American Dental Association.Silver diamine fluoride.
RDH Magazine.Is silver diamine fluoride the new sealant?.
National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research.Dental caries (tooth decay) in children ages 2 to 11 years.
Bezamat M.An updated review on the link between oral infections and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease with focus on phenomics.Front Physiol.
2022;13:1101398. doi:10.3389/fphys.2022.1101398
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Community water fluoridation.
Medjedovic E, Medjedovic S, Deljo D, Sukalo A.Impact of fluoride on dental health quality.Mater Sociomed.
2015;27(6):395-398. doi:10.5455/msm.2015.27.395-398
