Effect of Curing Light on Crown Discolouration of Restored Primary Teeth Following Silver Diamine Fluoride and Potassium Iodide Application: An In-vivo Study Protocol

Introduction: Dental caries treatment has evolved from surgical methods to Minimal Intervention Dentistry (MID), which focuses on preserving tooth structure and utilising biological methods. Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF) is a notable approach with strong antibacterial properties that prevent the growth of caries. Researchers have explored a method involving SDF, potassium iodide solution and Glass Ionomer Cement (GIC), which has shown minimal impact on caries-arresting effectiveness while enhancing the darkening of demineralised tooth surfaces. Need of the study: By assessing the discolouration levels in primary teeth, the present study seeks to elucidate the potential role of curing light in exacerbating or mitigating discolouration. The findings will provide valuable insights into optimising restorative protocols to minimise discolouration and enhance aesthetic outcomes in paediatric dental practice, ultimately improving patient satisfaction and treatment efficacy. Aim: To investigate the impact of curing light exposure on crown discolouration in primary teeth treated with SDF and potassium iodide. Materials and Methods: An experimental study will be conducted in the Department of Paediatric and Preventive Dentistry at Sharad Pawar Dental College and Hospital, Maharashtra, India, from March 2025 to August 2025. The study will involve four groups: Group I, Group II, Group III and Group IV. Participants will be divided as follows: Group I will receive one drop of SDF applied to the carious tooth surface. Group II will receive one drop of SDF combined with potassium iodide. Group III will receive a drop of SDF solution. Group IV will receive a drop of SDF combined with potassium iodide. All groups will undergo curing treatment for 20 seconds. Follow-up appointments will be scheduled at one, three and six months to assess the progress of the treated tooth and evaluate the need for additional applications. Three time points will be used for color assessments: T0 (immediately after treatment) T1 (three months) T2 (six months). A dental spectrophotometer will be used to measure the color of the dentin surface adjacent to the restoration. Descriptive statistics and frequency distribution will be performed. An Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) test will be conducted for intergroup comparisons at p<0.05.