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Community dental providers with the First Nations Health Authority (FNHA) are now offering Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF) as a tooth-decay treatment option for children. 

SDF is a liquid that can be used on cavities to stop tooth decay from growing, forming, or spreading to other teeth. It is a simple, painless procedure that can be performed in minutes. In many cases, SDF eliminates the need for more invasive treatments like fillings, crowns or pulling teeth. 

When applied to areas of tooth decay, SDF permanently stains cavities (the decayed areas of teeth) black. This indicates that the SDF is working and the decay has been halted. SDF does not stain any parts of healthy teeth. 

“The FNHA Oral Health Team continues to explore new ways to expand treatment and prevention options for the wellbeing of children," says Sakshi Sharma, FNHA Oral Health Manager. “Sometimes SDF is the only treatment needed if cavities are very small, or if the treated teeth fall out and adult teeth come in. Most importantly, SDF helps to avoid more uncomfortable dental procedures or sedation." 

The FNHA has worked with Indigenous Services Canada and the UBC Faculty of Dentistry to develop culturally-safe protocols and consent forms to ensure quality care using SDF. 

Learn more about Silver Diamine Fluoride.

If you have any questions about SDF, please contact OralHealth@fnha.ca.