Evidence-Based Dentistry Update on Silver Diamine Fluoride

Abstract

This article reviews current evidence on the effectiveness of silver diamine fluoride (SDF) as a caries arresting and preventive agent. It provides clinical recommendations around SDF's appropriate use as part of a comprehensive caries management program. Systematic reviews confirm that SDF is effective for caries arrest on cavitated lesions in primary teeth and root caries in the elderly. It may also prevent new lesions. Application is easy, noninvasive, affordable, and safe. Although it stains the lesions dark as it arrests them, it provides clinicians with an additional tool for caries management when esthetics are not a primary concern.

Keywords: Caries arrest; Caries management; Dental caries; Pediatric dentistry; Silver diamine fluoride.

Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Figures

Fig. 1.

(A) Enamel and dentin caries lesions in primary anterior teeth. (B) Same lesions showing staining after SDF treatment.

Fig. 2.

(A) Caries lesions on enamel and dentin on young primary teeth. (B) Same lesions showing staining after SDF treatment.

Fig. 3.

Stained arrested caries lesions on primary anterior teeth.

Fig. 4.

Staining on non-cavitated and partially-cavitated enamel lesions.

Fig. 5.

Large lesion with cellulitis.

Fig. 6.

Posterior arrest.

Fig. 7.

Posterior partial arrest.

Fig. 8.

Silver diamine fluoride application.