Silver Diamine Fluoride Versus Sodium Fluoride Varnish With Parental Behavior Modification in Arresting Early Childhood Caries

Effectiveness of Silver Diamine Fluoride Versus Sodium Fluoride Varnish With Parental Behavior Modification for Arresting Early Childhood Caries: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Arresting dental caries using silver diamine fluoride (SDF) has gained attention recently for the management of early childhood caries (ECC). However, black staining is one of its drawbacks. A possible affordable alternative can be Sodium Fluoride (NaF) supported with good oral hygiene induced by parental Motivational Interviewing (MI).

The trial aims to compare the impact of SDF versus NaF supported by MI on lesion activity in preschool children.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Children aged ≤ 4 years old.
2. The presence of at least one active carious lesion on a primary tooth, with scores 3 and higher (according to the International Detection and Assessment System- ICDAS II)
3. Children whose caregivers have means of communication (mobile phones).
4. Completion of an informed consent to participate in the study.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Children reporting spontaneous or elicited pain from caries or showing any signs of pulpal infection, swelling and/or abscess.
2. Parental refusal to participate in the study.
3. Allergy or sensitivity to silver or any of the materials included in the study.