Evidence-Based Guideline for Using Silver Diamine Fluoride to Treat Caries
Based on a systematic review of research from 1969 through 2016, the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) has issued evidence-based guidelines on the use of silver diamine fluoride (SDF) to treat caries in pediatric patients.
Based on a systematic review of research from 1969 through 2016, the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) has issued evidence-based guidelines on the use of silver diamine fluoride (SDF) to treat caries in pediatric patients. The AAPD recommends SDF for treating active caries in pediatric and special needs patients. Treating caries in young children may involve sedation or general anesthesia, both of which pose health risks for the patient. The AAPD’s new guidelines offer dentists clarity about the uses and benefits of SDF, likely leading to broader adoption of this low-cost treatment.
“Aside from fluoridated water, SDF may be the single greatest innovation in pediatric dental health in the last century,” notes James Nickman, DDS, AAPD president and a practicing pediatric dentist. “Given its minimal cost and easy, painless application, it could help close the gap in health care disparities.”
Beyond the esthetic consideration that SDF turns caries lesions black, the systematic review of the literature showed no significant adverse effects from the use of this material, which is also indicated for treating dentinal hypersensitivity.
