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Silver Diamine Fluoride in Pediatric Dentistry Training Programs: Survey of Graduate Program Directors
Travis Nelson1, Joanna M Scott1, Yasmi O Crystal2
1Department of Pediatric Dentistry, University of Washington, Seattle, Wash., USA.
Pediatric Dentistry
|June 17, 2016
Summary
Pediatric dentistry programs are increasingly using silver diamine fluoride (SDF) for caries control. Key barriers to SDF adoption include parental acceptance, though most programs anticipate increased use.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Dentistry
- Caries Management
- Dental Materials Science
Background:
- Caries control agents are crucial in pediatric dentistry.
- Silver diamine fluoride (SDF) offers a minimally invasive approach to caries management.
- Understanding current practices and barriers is essential for effective implementation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the current use, teaching, and perceived barriers of silver diamine fluoride (SDF) and other caries control agents.
- To assess the adoption trends of SDF in U.S. pediatric dentistry residency programs.
Main Methods:
- A survey was distributed to U.S. pediatric dentistry residency program directors in 2015.
- Data collection involved web-based surveys, paper instruments, or interviews.
- A response rate of 87% was achieved from 74 program directors.
Main Results:
- 25.7% of programs reported using SDF, with 68.9% planning to increase its use.
- Fluoride varnish was universally used; SDF, silver nitrate, and povidone iodine were used less frequently.
- Parental acceptance was the primary barrier (91.8%) to SDF use, though most agreed on its applicability to primary and permanent teeth.
Conclusions:
- SDF adoption is rapidly increasing within graduate pediatric dentistry training.
- The majority of programs anticipate integrating SDF into clinical training and curricula.
- Addressing parental concerns is critical for broader SDF implementation.
