POST CARE INSTRUCTIONS
SILVER DIAMINE FLUORIDE (SDF)
When your child received Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF), a non-invasive treatment used to slow or stop the progression of cavities. SDF is commonly recommended for young children, early cavities, or situations where traditional fillings or crowns may need to be delayed.
SDF works by killing cavity-causing bacteria and strengthening weakened tooth structure, helping prevent further decay until definitive restorative treatment can be completed.
What to Expect After SDF Treatment
After SDF is applied, the treated area of decay will typically turn dark brown or black. This color change is expected and indicates that the cavity has been successfully arrested.
Parents may notice:
The cavity becoming darker in color
Mild taste from the medication immediately after application
No discomfort from the treated tooth
The dark color only occurs in areas where cavities are present and does not affect healthy tooth structure.
Eating and Drinking After Treatment
To maximize the effectiveness of Silver Diamine Fluoride, please follow these instructions:
Avoid eating or drinking for at least one hour after treatment
This allows the medication to fully absorb into the tooth structure
After this time, your child may resume normal eating and drinking.
Brushing and Oral Hygiene
For the evening following treatment: Do not brush or floss the treated area the night of the application. This allows the medication to remain in contact with the cavity for the maximum therapeutic benefit. The following day, your child can return to their normal brushing and flossing routine. Maintaining good oral hygiene is important for preventing new cavities and supporting the long-term success of SDF treatment.
Skin or Lip Staining
Because SDF contains silver, it can occasionally cause temporary staining on the skin or lips if the solution comes into contact with soft tissues during treatment. This can sometimes happen if a child moves during the procedure.
If staining occurs, you may notice:
A small dark spot on the lip or skin
The stain may appear brown or black
These stains are harmless and temporary and usually fade naturally within about one week as the skin renews.
To help remove the stain more quickly, parents may:
Gently rub the area with a saltwater slurry (similar to a sugar-scrub consistency)
Apply hydrogen peroxide with a cotton ball
Use a hair dye remover product if recommended
Avoid scrubbing aggressively, as the skin will naturally exfoliate and remove the stain over time.
Recommended Follow-Up Applications
For optimal effectiveness, Silver Diamine Fluoride is typically applied twice during the initial treatment phase.
The recommended protocol is:
First application: day of application
Second application: approximately 2–4 weeks after the initial treatment. This second application helps ensure that the cavity-arresting effect is fully established.
Long-Term SDF Management
SDF helps stop cavities but does not restore the missing tooth structure. Because of this, it is often used as a temporary or stabilizing treatment.
To maintain the protective effect, SDF should be reapplied approximately every 6 months. We recommend digital x-rays to be taken every 3-6 months to determine potential progression of interproximal caries until:
The cavity can be treated with a filling or crown, or
The baby tooth naturally falls out
When to Contact Tiny Tooth Co.
Please contact our office if:
Your child experiences pain or sensitivity in the treated tooth
You notice swelling near the tooth or gums
The cavity appears to be getting larger
You have questions about the treatment plan
Our team is always happy to help guide you through your child’s dental care.