SDF is a liquid brushed onto a cavity to help stop it getting worse. No drilling, no numbing, about a minute per tooth. It suits some situations well and others not at all — whether it fits your child is something Dr. Kohan decides after examining the tooth.
SDF is a liquid containing silver and fluoride brushed onto a cavity to stop it progressing. Application takes about one to two minutes per tooth with no drilling and no injection. Treated decay turns dark brown or black permanently. SDF stops decay but does not remove it, so a filling may still be needed later.
Silver diamine fluoride is a clear liquid painted directly onto decayed tooth structure. The silver helps stop the bacteria driving the decay, and the fluoride strengthens what remains of the tooth. Applied to the right tooth in the right situation, it can halt a cavity that would otherwise keep growing.
It is most often considered for very young children, for children who would find a filling appointment genuinely difficult, and where delaying restorative work is reasonable — for instance a baby tooth that is close to falling out anyway.
It is not a replacement for restorative treatment in every case, and it does not work on every cavity.
A two-year-old with a cavity may not be able to sit through a filling appointment. SDF can hold the decay steady until they are old enough to manage treatment, or until the tooth is lost naturally.
Decay caught while it is still shallow responds best. A cavity that has already reached the nerve will not be helped by SDF and needs different treatment.
For a child who finds the drill genuinely distressing, SDF can buy time to build trust across several visits. It is a bridge, not always a destination.
Where a long appointment is not realistic, SDF may fit into an individualized plan. See our approach to special needs dentistry.
The most useful thing a parent can know before saying yes is what SDF is actually for. It is a way of stopping decay where it is, not a way of repairing damage already done.
It can: stop an existing cavity from progressing · strengthen the remaining tooth · reduce sensitivity in a decayed tooth · postpone or sometimes avoid a filling · be repeated at follow-up visits if needed
It cannot: remove or reverse decay that has already happened · rebuild the shape of a broken-down tooth · treat a tooth where decay has reached the nerve · treat an abscess or infection · guarantee a filling will never be needed
A cavity treated with SDF stays a cavity — it just stops growing. The tooth still has a hole in it, and if that hole affects chewing or appearance, a filling or crown may still be the better answer.
Dr. Kohan examines the tooth, sometimes with digital X-rays to check how deep the decay runs, and then explains whether SDF is a sensible option for that particular tooth. We go through the staining, the alternatives, and what happens if you decline. Nothing is applied without your consent.
A minute or two per tooth. Most children are out of the chair before they have decided to be worried about it.
No injection, no drill, no numb lip afterwards to bite. This is the reason it works for children who cannot manage a filling appointment.
Applied to suitable decay, it can arrest the cavity so it stops progressing. Follow-up visits confirm whether it has held.
SDF sits alongside fluoride varnish, sealants, and diet changes as part of preventive dentistry, not instead of them.
The main complaint is a brief metallic taste. There is no lasting discomfort, and children can eat normally straight afterwards.
Suitability depends on the tooth, the depth of decay, your child’s age, and where the tooth sits in the mouth. It is decided at the chair, not in advance.
What a GREAT OFFICE ! The whole team is so welcoming and really makes you feel at ease ! My son was so so anxious about his visit and first time getting cavities filled and they really took their time and made him feel like he was safe and in such good hands. I really really appreciated it as a mom the extra attention to detail and attention to my son’s feelings. We will most definitely be coming back for future care and a huge thank you again to the team !
MARTA OLCZYKI brought my kids in to Say Cheese Dental today after moving from Orange County && they immediately eased my nerves. The staff was so nice and made my children very comfortable. We’re looking forward to coming back ❤️
Gy'Kia WillsAwesome service super friendly
David SanchezThis was our first visit, and we had a great experience. Everyone was very patient, friendly, and helpful. The staff made my kids feel comfortable and well cared for. We really appreciate their kindness and professionalism.
Wendy WThe girls on the office were really sweet and kind with my daughter. The patience and professionalism was very exceptional. They explained everything very well and straight forward. I’ve been to other offices and was not treated the way I was treated today. The staff was very welcoming and attentive
Adriana CervantesGreat experience at this dental office. Everyone was kind and welcoming, from the front desk to the X-ray technician and the doctor. The dentist was very thorough. He took the time to explain everything clearly, and made sure I understood the treatment and options. You can really tell they care about their patients and want you to feel comfortable. I highly recommend them.
Iris AvalosI must say this play is Wonderfully very charming and kids friendly. They have a wonderful and knowledgeable Doctor, and their staff are professional. My daughter has alot of crowding, and in between baby and mature teeth phase and needs a braces, everyone was non judgemental about her teeth and treated her and myself with kindness. And after all that they have a prize for the kids. Definitely recommended this dentist office.
Richelle TDr. Kohan was super helpful, transparent and professional. The office is very nice and super kid friendly. Staff was attentive and kind. My girls felt very comfortable with the consultation and cleaning.
Griselda AguirreExcelente Servicio Fueron súper amables y comprensivos y eso hizo que mi hijo se sintiera seguro… Lo recomiendo 10/10
Brenda OrellanaMedically reviewed by Dr. Joshua Kohan, DMD — Say Cheese Kids Dental & Orthodontics, Chino, CA.
Last reviewed: 5 August 2026. This page is for general information and is not a substitute for an in-person examination.
UCLA-trained, with over five years of experience caring for children’s smiles in Chino.
Every child’s situation is different. Dr. Kohan can examine your child’s teeth and tell you honestly whether SDF is a sensible option, or whether something else would serve them better. Families visit us from Chino, Chino Hills, Eastvale, and Ontario.
