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Development of a novel silver complex fluoride for caries management: an in vitro study
Grace Yuchan Xu1, Iris Xiaoxue Yin1, Irene Shuping Zhao2
1Faculty of Dentistry, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.
Journal of Dentistry
|September 22, 2025
Summary
A new silver complex fluoride (SCF) shows strong antibacterial effects against caries-causing bacteria while minimizing tooth discoloration. This development offers a promising alternative for dental treatments, preserving aesthetics and oral health.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Biomaterials
- Dental Research
Background:
- Dental caries management often involves agents that can cause tooth discoloration.
- There is a need for effective antibacterial agents that preserve tooth aesthetics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a novel silver complex fluoride (SCF) solution.
- To evaluate SCF for its antibacterial properties and potential to cause tooth discoloration in caries management.
Main Methods:
- SCF was synthesized and characterized, with silver and fluoride concentrations measured.
- Cytotoxicity was assessed against human gingival fibroblasts (HGF-1) and stem cells (SHED).
- Antibacterial activity and dentine discolouration were evaluated against Streptococcus mutans, compared to silver diamine fluoride (SDF) and water.
Main Results:
- SCF exhibited potent antibacterial activity against Streptococcus mutans, comparable to SDF.
- SCF demonstrated significantly lower cytotoxicity compared to SDF in both HGF-1 and SHED cell lines.
- Spectrophotometric analysis showed minimal discolouration (ΔE = 5.8 ± 3.3) with SCF, unlike SDF (ΔE = 73.0 ± 17.6).
Conclusions:
- A novel SCF solution was successfully developed with potent antibacterial efficacy.
- SCF offers minimal tooth discolouration, presenting a significant advantage over existing treatments like SDF.
- SCF shows considerable potential for clinical application in caries management, balancing antimicrobial action with aesthetic outcomes.
