SILVER DIAMINE FLUORIDE: A MAGIC BULLET FOR CARIES MANAGEMENT

In the past few years, silver diamine fluoride (SDF), a medicament for topical use, has increasingly gained recognition amongst clinicians and patients as an effective tool for arresting caries, treating dentinal hypersensitivity, and enhancing tooth bond strength. Because of its cost-effectiveness and ease of application, SDF is now a treatment of choice in many clinical scenarios. SDF is a colorless topical compound constituting 24.4–28.8% (w/v) silver and 5.0–5.9% fluoride at pH 10. Upon application, SDF leads to the development of a hypermineralized layer, resulting in a decrease of dentinal sensitivity. The hypermineralized layer also helps to arrest caries by providing resistance against acid dissolution and enzymatic digestion on decayed surfaces. This article presents a quick overview of SDF, the current clinical evidence on its use, clinical indications, limitations, application protocol, and patient considerations.