Silver diamine fluoride halts tooth decay in children without drilling

A large-scale Phase III clinical trial has demonstrated that 38 percent silver diamine fluoride (SDF) can effectively halt the progression of dental caries in primary teeth without the need for drilling, anesthesia, or sedation. The study, published in JAMA Pediatrics, involved 830 children aged 12 to 71 months suffering from severe early childhood caries.

Researchers from the University of Michigan, New York University, and the University of Iowa found that after six months, SDF stopped decay in 54 percent of lesions, compared to 22.5 percent in the placebo group. The liquid preparation is applied directly to the cavity using a small applicator, a process that takes only a few seconds per tooth.

While the treatment is highly effective and minimally invasive, experts note a significant cosmetic drawback: the silver causes permanent darkening of the treated tooth tissue. However, researchers suggest this is less concerning for primary teeth, as they will eventually be replaced by permanent teeth. The method could significantly reduce the number of children requiring hospitalization or general anesthesia for advanced dental decay.