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Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF)

Category: Pediatric | Difficulty: Basic | Priority: Core

Clinical Definition

Topical agent containing silver and fluoride ions used to arrest active dental caries, often in pediatric or special needs patients.

Patient-Friendly

A special medicine painted on cavities to help stop them from getting bigger, sometimes turning the spot dark.

Para el Paciente (Español)

Un líquido aplicado a las caries activas para detener su progresión sin taladrar — la plata mata las bacterias y el flúor endurece el diente, pero las áreas tratadas se vuelven permanentemente negras.

Related Terms

[[caries arrest; non-restorative treatment]]

Notes

Explain staining effect clearly to parents | Common Misconception: SDF is sometimes seen as a permanent solution — it arrests caries but does not restore tooth structure. Definitive restorations are still needed eventually, though SDF buys time in uncooperative patients.

Audience

🗂 Front Desk 👶 Pediatric