- Silver diamine fluoride (SDF), a dark liquid, offers a drill-free and rapid treatment for tooth decay, potentially transforming dental care.
- University of Michigan researchers led a trial involving 830 children, showing that a 38 per cent concentration of SDF successfully halted decay in over half of affected baby teeth.
- The researchers said that the treatment, which is painted onto the cavity using a sponge-tipped applicator, is effective and safe for children as young as one, and could act as a temporary solution for adults awaiting further dental procedures.
- SDF has been used internationally for decades and off-label in the US since 2014, with the recent trial data now supporting its regulatory approval.
- Although affordable, typically costing between US$20 and $75 per application, the primary disadvantage is that SDF permanently darkens the decayed portion of the tooth.
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