Last reviewed · How we verify
Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF)
Silver diamine fluoride arrests dental caries by releasing silver ions that kill cariogenic bacteria and fluoride ions that remineralize tooth structure.
Silver diamine fluoride arrests dental caries by releasing silver ions that kill cariogenic bacteria and fluoride ions that remineralize tooth structure. Used for Dental caries arrest in primary and permanent teeth, Early childhood caries management, Root caries in elderly patients.
At a glance
| Generic name | Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF) |
|---|---|
| Sponsor | Umm Al-Qura University |
| Drug class | Topical antimicrobial and remineralizing agent |
| Modality | Small molecule |
| Therapeutic area | Dentistry / Oral Health |
| Phase | FDA-approved |
Mechanism of action
SDF is a topical antimicrobial and remineralizing agent used in dentistry. The silver component provides bactericidal activity against oral pathogens, while the fluoride component promotes remineralization of demineralized tooth enamel and dentin. It is applied directly to affected tooth surfaces to arrest caries progression, particularly in early-stage lesions.
Approved indications
- Dental caries arrest in primary and permanent teeth
- Early childhood caries management
- Root caries in elderly patients
Common side effects
- Tooth staining (black/gray discoloration)
- Gum irritation or staining
- Metallic taste
Key clinical trials
- Preventing Early Childhood Caries With a Silver Diamine Fluoride Gel (PHASE2)
- Arresting Early Childhood Caries With a Silver Diamine Fluoride Gel (PHASE2)
- Traditional vs. Minimally Invasive Decay Treatments in Primary Molars: An 18-month Split-mouth Randomized Study (NA)
- Building Adaptive School-based Interventions for Caries (PHASE3)
- General Dentists' Knowledge, Attitudes and Clinical Usage of SDF
- Effect of Silver Diamine Fluoride on Local Anesthesia in Hypomineralized Molars (NA)
- Effect of Silver Diamine Fluoride and LED Activation on Residual Caries Activity in Class II Cavities (NA)
- Efficacy of Silver Diamine Fluoride Versus Nano-Silver Fluoride in Arresting Active Dentin Caries in Primary Teeth in Young Children (NA)
Primary sources
Every claim on this page is sourced from regulatory or scientific primary sources. See our editorial policy for full methodology.
| Source | Used for |
|---|---|
| ClinicalTrials.gov | Trial enrolment, design, endpoints, results |