Efficacy of Silver Diamine Fluoride in Management of Caries: A Narrative Review

Abstract

Dental caries is a microbial disease of the calcified tissues of the tooth, characterized by demineralization and leading to cavitation and is generally irreversible. Early involvement of pulp is associated with pain and loss of teeth as well as has negative impact on the quality of life. Hence, it is recommended to focus on preventive measures to limit the discomfort caused by caries. Silver diamine fluoride is one such medicament used to prevent and arrest dental caries and also helps in overcoming dentinal hypersensitivity. It is colorless or blue-tinted (which has advantage of arrest), odorless liquid composed of fluoride, ammonium, and silver. It is easy to use, efficient, accessible, cost effective, time saving, and patient centered.

Key words: Preventive, Silver diamine fluoride, Dental caries