Advantages of SDF:
-Relieves tooth sensitivity.
-Prevents abscesses by slowing down or stopping tooth decay.
-Can save time for children who are too young or fearful, or who have special needs, until they can manage.
-Avoids fillings or extractions by stopping decay.
Disadvantages of SDF :
-The painted area will stain black permanently. Healthy parts of teeth will not stain. However, stained tooth may be covered with a filling or a crown to make it look white again.
-Tooth-coloured fillings may discolour if SDF is applied to them but this can usually be polished off to make it them white again.
- If accidentally applied to the skin or gum, a brown stain may appear. Although this cannot be washed off, it causes no harm and will disappear in 1-3 weeks.
-If accidentally spilled on clothes, it can leave a stain that does not come out.
-A metallic taste may be noticed during the application. This will go away rapidly.
