Could a few drops spare children the dentist’s drill?

Dentists could potentially spare young children from the discomfort of traditional dental work, thanks to a liquid called silver diamine fluoride (SDF). This non-invasive treatment involves simply painting the decayed area with a solution containing silver and fluoride. In a large US clinical trial, SDF arrested decay in 54% of treated areas after one application, compared to just 22.5% in a placebo group.

However, nearly half of the treated lesions remained active, indicating the need for follow-up care. While SDF does not rebuild the tooth like a filling, it can halt decay and may be applied every few months. The treatment is generally safe and well-tolerated, with only mild or moderate adverse events. For some children, SDF could control the cavity until the baby tooth falls out naturally, or serve as a temporary measure until they are older.

It may also benefit older adults, people with disabilities, or those with severe dental anxiety. However, SDF permanently darkens the decayed part of the tooth, which could be an issue for visible front teeth. Families should understand that SDF is not a substitute for a dental examination, and the treatment is best seen as one tool within a broader oral health plan.

SDF is already recognized in Malaysia, but the new US trial strengthens the case for its use, particularly among young children who struggle with conventional procedures or live in areas with limited access to specialist care.