Provider and Public Perceptions of Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF)

Published 08/04/2021

Silver diamine fluoride (SDF) is highly effective in arresting the progression of active caries as well as preventing new lesions. It has been commonly used as a treatment for children, and many parents appreciate its ease of use. Evidence shows that the application of SDF in children arrested 61% of new carious lesions. However, SDF is not without downsides: it leaves a black stain on these lesions and may burn or stain the soft tissue surrounding them.

Given all this, how do dental providers and patients view SDF? A new visual report from CareQuest Institute for Oral Health offers details on their attitudes. Key findings include:

  • 90% of nearly 400 surveyed providers agreed that SDF is an effective treatment.
  • 78% of the surveyed adults think that the application of SDF on posterior teeth is acceptable versus only 20% who think it is acceptable on anterior teeth.
  • Females were more likely than males to accept SDF as the treatment of choice for both posterior and anterior teeth.

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