Post-Op Instructions
for Sealants & Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF)
Both sealants and Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF) are preventive treatments used to protect children's teeth from decay and manage cavities in a non-invasive and painless manner. Dental sealants help protect your child's teeth from cavities by sealing deep grooves and pits. They harden immediately, so your child can return to normal activities right away. However, some minor aftercare for both sealants and SDF is recommended.
1. Eating & Drinking
- Your child can eat and drink immediately after sealant application.
- Avoid sticky, chewy, or hard foods (like gum, caramel, hard candy, and ice) for the first 24 hours to prevent dislodging or damaging the sealant.
- If your child received fluoride treatment after the sealant, wait 30 minutes before eating or drinking.
2. Sensations & Adjustments
- It’s normal for your child to feel a slightly different bite initially, especially if the sealant covers deep grooves.
- If your child complains of an uneven or high bite, contact the dentist, as the sealant may need to be adjusted.
3. Oral Hygiene
- Continue brushing and flossing as usual, but be gentle around the sealed teeth.
- The sealant protects the tooth from decay but should not replace good oral hygiene. Encourage your child to brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily.
- Avoid chewing on objects like pens or ice to protect the sealants.
4. When to Call the Dentist
- If your child experiences pain, discomfort, or an uneven bite lasting more than a few days.
- If a sealant becomes chipped or comes off, contact the dentist for a replacement.
Post-Op Instructions for Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF)
1. Numbness & Taste
- Your child may experience no numbness with SDF, as it is a topical treatment and doesn’t require local anesthesia.
- After application, your child may notice a slightly metallic or bitter taste in their mouth, which should go away shortly after the procedure.
2. Eating & Drinking
- Your child can eat and drink immediately, but avoid hot foods and drinks for at least 30 minutes to minimize sensitivity.
- If the tooth treated with SDF is on a chewing surface, avoid sticky, chewy foods (such as gum, caramel, or chewy candies) for at least 24 hours to allow the treatment to fully take effect.
3. Tooth Color Change
- SDF causes a black stain on areas of decay, but healthy enamel will not stain.
- The black staining on decayed areas is normal and indicates the decay has been arrested. It is not harmful and does not affect the tooth's function.
- If staining is concerning, contact the dentist to discuss other options.
4. Oral Hygiene
- Continue brushing and flossing normally but be gentle around the treated area for the first 24 hours.
- Avoid vigorous rinsing or spitting for the first 24 hours after SDF application to ensure the treatment has adequate time to settle.
5. When to Call the Dentist
- If your child experiences persistent discomfort, increased sensitivity, or swelling after 24 hours.
- If the treated tooth shows any signs of infection or pain.
Ready for your child's appointment?
At Treehouse Pediatric Dentistry of Chantilly, we're committed to making dental care a fun and stress-free experience, one your child will enjoy again and again! From the moment the first tooth emerges, we’re committed to laying the foundation for a lifetime of healthy, radiant smiles. We invite you to schedule your child’s appointment to discover a new level of pediatric dental care!
