Expanding Access through Preventive Innovation: The Public Health Impact of SDF and SMART Protocols Performed by Dental Hygienists in Vermont

This study examines the use of Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF) and the Silver-Modified Atraumatic Restorative Technique (SMART) by licensed dental hygienists in Vermont. It highlights how preventive innovations and expanded scopes of practice improve access to oral healthcare in underserved rural areas. The review synthesizes recent evidence on the clinical effectiveness, cost-efficiency, and patient outcomes of SDF and SMART, demonstrating their role in reducing untreated caries and promoting equity through workforce reform.