As caries management evolves, dental professionals are looking for effective, minimally invasive options that prioritize patient comfort and clinical efficiency. Silver diamine fluoride (SDF) is one such breakthrough. This article explores how SDF works, where it fits in modern Canadian practice, and why it's earning a place in more clinical toolkits across the country. 

The mechanism of silver diamine fluoride in arresting dental caries

Silver diamine fluoride (SDF) is gaining traction in Canadian dental practices as a non-invasive treatment for managing dental caries. According to the Canadian Dental Hygienists Association (CDHA), SDF has been approved by Health Canada since 2017 as a natural health product and anticaries agent for use in both children and adults. 

SDF’s mechanism is twofold: it kills the bacteria that cause decay and helps strengthen the remaining tooth structure. silver ions act as a powerful antimicrobial, while fluoride promotes remineralization. The result? Progression of the lesion is halted without the need for drilling or anesthesia. This makes silver diamine fluoride especially useful for patients with anxiety, special needs, or limited access to traditional restorative care. Application is simple: isolate, dry, apply with a microbrush, and let sit. The procedure is safe, cost-effective, and efficient.

 For more on the science behind SDF, see this Canadian publication: BMC Oral Health review on SDF.

Best practices and research support for SDF use

Clinical research continues to support the use of silver diamine fluoride for caries arrest in both primary and permanent dentition. Canadian dental literature confirms SDF’s clinical effectiveness and its growing role in preventive care, particularly for populations where conventional treatments are not practical. In 2021, the World Health Organization (WHO) officially added silver diamine fluoride to its Model List of Essential Medicines, underscoring its global relevance and support for non-invasive dental treatment strategies.

National guidelines, including recommendations from the Canadian Dental Association (CDA), emphasize its use in cavitated lesions without signs of pulpal involvement. Informed consent is essential due to the permanent black staining of treated lesions, particularly for teeth in the aesthetic zone.  

Applying silver diamine fluoride in your clinical routine

Incorporating silver diamine fluoride into your workflow is straightforward. Begin by identifying patients at high risk of caries or those for whom traditional treatment isn’t practical. These might include long-term care residents, children, or patients with behavioural or health concerns. After obtaining consent, isolate the lesion using cotton rolls or a rubber dam. Apply SDF using a microbrush and let it sit for one to three minutes. Repeat every 6 to 12 months, depending on lesion activity and patient risk. Keep accurate records of application sites and outcomes for follow-up care.

Conclusion: supporting modern, minimally invasive care

 Silver diamine fluoride is helping Canadian dental professionals deliver low-barrier, high-impact care—especially where traditional restorative dentistry isn’t ideal. It aligns with preventive, minimally invasive philosophies that are becoming the norm across the country. With growing clinical support and simple application protocols, SDF offers your practice a versatile solution that supports better outcomes and more accessible care.