Dosing and Application Considerations
How much should you use?
- Dosing: the maximum dose set by the FDA for the phase III drug trial in young children is 260 µL, or eight 32.5 µL drops, per visit
- 1 to 4 drops per patient is almost always sufficient
- Consider postponing if the patient has active mucositis/oral ulcers or viral disease
- If treating, cover any ulcers well with petroleum jelly
- Contraindications: silver allergy (rule out nickel sensitivity)
- Use glasses (on both yourself and the patient) to avoid getting SDF in the eyes. If SDF gets into eyes, immediately flush with copious water.
References:
Slayton, R. L., et al. (2018). Evidence-based clinical practice guideline on nonrestorative treatments for carious lesions: A report from the American Dental Association. JADA, 149(10): 837-849.E19.
Young, D. A., et al. (2021). Clinical Instructions for Using Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF) in Dental Caries Management. Compend Contin Educ Dent. 2021 Jun;42(6):e5-e9.
Horst, J. A., Ellenikiotis, H., & Milgrom, P. L., (2016). UCSF Protocol for Caries Arrest Using Silver Diamine Fluoride: Rationale, Indications and Consent. J Calif Dent Assoc. 2016 Jan;44(1):16-28.