Non-Invasive Caries Control: Role of Silver Diamine Fluoride in Arresting Early Childhood Caries - A Narrative Review

Dr. Savitha Sathyaprasad, Dr. Revanuru Swathi

Abstract: Early Childhood Caries (ECC) is a widespread and persistent oral health concern, affecting a significant proportion of children under the age of six. Associated with pain, infection, compromised nutrition, and reduced quality of life, ECC disproportionately impacts socioeconomically disadvantaged populations. Traditional caries management approaches, which rely on invasive restorative procedures, often pose challenges in pediatric settings due to behavioral, developmental, and access-related barriers. In response, contemporary pediatric dentistry has increasingly embraced minimally invasive and non-invasive strategies that prioritize disease prevention and caries arrest. Silver diamine Fluoride (SDF) has emerged as a clinically effective, cost-efficient, and simple-to-apply topical agent for arresting caries, particularly in young or medically compromised children. Approved by the U. S. FDA in 2014 as a desensitizing agent, SDF has since gained widespread off-label use for caries management, supported by growing evidence of its dual antibacterial and re-mineralizing effects. This narrative review explores the evolving role of SDF in pediatric dentistry, examining its mechanism of action, clinical indications, application protocols, advantages, limitations, and future potential. This review aims to inform evidence-based integration of SDF into routine pediatric practice, advancing non-invasive management strategies for ECC.

Keywords: SDF, silver diamine fluoride, minimally invasive treatment, KI, 38% SDF, ECC

How to Cite?: Dr. Savitha Sathyaprasad, Dr. Revanuru Swathi, "Non-Invasive Caries Control: Role of Silver Diamine Fluoride in Arresting Early Childhood Caries - A Narrative Review", Volume 14 Issue 7, July 2025, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 296-304, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR25703101306, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR25703101306