Effectiveness of silver diamine fluoride in preventing and arresting dental caries in pediatric dentistry

Dental caries is one of the most prevalent chronic diseases among children worldwide. Conventional caries management methods such as fluoride sealants and varnishes are widely used; however, newer noninvasive therapies like silver diamine fluoride (SDF) have gained attention. SDF has been proposed as a topical treatment for pediatric carious lesions, with advantages including arresting caries progression, reducing pain, and promoting remineralization with minimal intervention.

This review summarizes available evidence on the effectiveness of SDF as a caries prevention and arrest agent in primary teeth. It is based on a comprehensive analysis of current clinical studies and trials, focusing on biochemical mechanisms of action (including antimicrobial effects and increased dentin hardness), alongside practical considerations such as safety, application ease, and cost-effectiveness.

Across reviewed clinical studies and trials, SDF demonstrates effectiveness in preventing and arresting caries in primary teeth. Evidence supports underlying mechanisms including antimicrobial activity and enhancement of dentin hardness. The review also highlights practical strengths (safety profile, ease of application, and cost-effectiveness) and limitations, particularly esthetic concerns and staining. It also notes potential usefulness in pediatric populations with limited access to dental care or special healthcare needs.

SDF can be applied safely, effectively, and cost-effectively as a caries-preventive and caries-arresting approach for young primary teeth.