Silver diamine fluoride for the treatment of dental caries: A comprehensive review of the literature

Silver diamine fluoride (SDF) is an aqueous solution of silver (Ag+) and fluoride (F-) ions stabilized by ammonia. It is regarded by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a safe, efficacious and cost-effective pharmacological agent for the minimally invasive management of dental caries. The Ag+ ions in SDF mainly exert an antibacterial effect, while the F- ions remineralize dental tissues. Recently, SDF has also been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for desensitization. The main advantages of SDF over other treatment options are its shorter application time, ease of application and no need for anesthesia. Furthermore, it is suitable for individuals with physical or mental disabilities, non-ambulatory patients, and elderly patients, as it can also be applied by dental nurses, hygienists and healthcare workers. Various studies have confirmed the efficacy of SDF in arresting and preventing coronal and root caries, desensitizing teeth, and disinfecting root canals, highlighting its potential to reduce the global healthcare and economic burden associated with untreated dental caries. The aim of this review is to provide an updated overview of SDF properties and its use in the minimally invasive management of dental caries.