Silver diamine fluoride, sometimes referred to as SDF or silver fluoride, is a topical treatment put on teeth to slow down or stop dental decay in both primary and permanent teeth. Its key ingredient is silver, which kills the germs that can cause tooth decay. It's often used as a conservative alternative to traditional cavity treatment because of its non-invasive application. Silver diamine fluoride is particularly useful for managing tooth decay in children and in patients with developmental disabilities, behavioral issues, or who are fearful of needles or dental drills. It stops the progression of tooth decay and stabilizes the tooth until such time that your doctor determines further dental treatment is needed before it is applied. Your Dr. May place cotton gauze or a rubber dam to help isolate the area from saliva moistening the affected teeth. Then a vacuum suction tool is used to remove any remaining moisture from the surface. Next, the SDF is applied using a small brush to the area affected by a cavity when applied to a tooth with a cavity. The SDF hardens the softened tooth structure turning the damaged portion of the tooth black. Yet if applied to a primary tooth, the child's permanent tooth that replaces it will not be stained during the application. If SDF touches the lips, skin, or gums, a temporary brown or white stain may appear for several weeks. Although silver fluoride is a safe, painless alternative to traditional cavity drilling, it should not be considered a replacement for the restoration of decayed teeth with dental fillings or crowns. Rather, it is an effective interim therapy used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan supervised by your doctor.