Major trial confirms silver diamine fluoride stops cavities in young children

A Phase III trial led by the University of Michigan with 830 children under 6 found that 38% silver diamine fluoride (SDF) arrested decay in more than half of affected baby teeth when applied every six months. The treatment takes seconds and needs no drilling, injections or sedation, but permanently darkens the decayed area.

• SDF arrested decay in over 50% of baby teeth with applications every 6 months
• The trial enrolled 830 children under 6 across Michigan, New York and Iowa
• The liquid is painted on in seconds with no drilling, shots or sedation
• Drawback: treated decayed areas turn permanently dark