Can silver diamine fluoride be an alternative to aerosol-based dentistry during the COVID scenario? A retrospective analysis

Abstract

Background: Restrictions on routine dental procedures involving aerosols during COVID-19 have resulted in a significant increase in the suffering of pediatric patients. Aim: The study reported the alternative measures followed in our department using SDF during the COVID era when routine elective dental procedures were prohibited. Materials and Methods: The retrospective data of patients aged 2–13 years with carious molar teeth who were treated with silver diamine fluoride without (Group 1) or with (Group 2) caries excavation were collected. Results: One thousand and seventy-two patients (646 males and 426 females) with 2459 carious molar were treated. On follow-up assessment at 3 months, 28 teeth in Group 1 and 21 teeth in Group 2 showed progression of carious lesion using International Caries Detection and Assessment System (ICDAS II criteria). Out of these failure cases, 32 (1.8%) teeth were primary and 17 (2.5%) were permanent. Complete relief in sensitivity/pain on stimulation was reported in 2381 teeth (96.83%), whereas in 78 (3.17%) teeth, mild sensitivity/pain on stimulation was reported. The average time consumed during treatment per tooth in Group 1 was 5.04 min and in Group 2 was 5.78 min. Conclusion: SDF application can be carried out as a nonaerosol-generating procedure and is a simple technique for children and clinicians.