Silver diamine fluoride: a preventive tool in Pediatric Dentistry

Abstract

Dental caries, following a brief decline in the 20th century, has become rampant again in recent times. This has led to decline in overall health and a poor quality of life. To overcome this, researchers have introduced the medical model for management of the dental caries which views it as a disease rather than a lesion. This concept relies on the use of medicaments rather than on surgical treatment alone. Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF) is one such medicament which has greatly revolutionized the management of this vicious disease especially in children. This review briefly outlines the history, mechanism of action, its indications, contraindications and application of SDF. Key words: caries, prevention, silver, fluoride