Silver diamine fluoride: evidence update

Silver diamine fluoride is a topical technique licensed for sensitivity but which can be used for caries arrest off label. There is a long history of its use internationally, but relatively recent licensing arrangements in North America and Europe have led to a renewed interest and an evolving evidence base. This includes evidence of its efficacy in the arrest of caries in primary teeth and root caries in permanent teeth. These updates have implications for clinical indications and techniques employed when using SDF. SDF is listed as a World Health Organization essential medicine. It was recently included in the Scottish Dental Clinical Effectiveness Programme guideline on caries management and prevention in children. CPD/Clinical Relevance: This article gives an overview of the updated evidence base for silver diamine fluoride.

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Publication Details

Journal
Dental Update
Published
2026-03-02
DOI
https://doi.org/10.12968/denu.2026.53.3.160
Primary Topic
Dental Health and Care Utilization
Type
article
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article

Silver diamine fluoride: evidence update

Laura Timms
Dental Update
Dental Health and Care Utilization
article

Silver diamine fluoride: evidence update

Laura Timms
article en

Abstract

Silver diamine fluoride is a topical technique licensed for sensitivity but which can be used for caries arrest off label. There is a long history of its use internationally, but relatively recent licensing arrangements in North America and Europe have led to a renewed interest and an evolving evidence base. This includes evidence of its efficacy in the arrest of caries in primary teeth and root caries in permanent teeth. These updates have implications for clinical indications and techniques employed when using SDF. SDF is listed as a World Health Organization essential medicine. It was recently included in the Scottish Dental Clinical Effectiveness Programme guideline on caries management and prevention in children. CPD/Clinical Relevance: This article gives an overview of the updated evidence base for silver diamine fluoride.

Dental UpdateVol. 53(3)
University of Sheffield (GB)
Good health and well-being
Openalex Percentile: Top 6%
Dental Health and Care Utilization
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