Children's Teeth to Be Saved from Cavities - New Discovery

American scientists tested silver diamine fluoride for treating childhood cavities without drilling or anesthesia. In a study of 830 children under six, after six months, cavities were halted in 54% versus 22.5% in the placebo group. The procedure takes 10 seconds but darkens the tooth. Researcher Margherita Fontana called the method effective and safe. Trials were conducted only on baby teeth.

American scientists tested silver diamine fluoride (SDF) as a way to treat childhood cavities without drilling or anesthesia. The study involved 830 children under six years old. Six months after a single application, cavities were halted in 54% of children, compared to 22.5% in the placebo group. The procedure takes about 10 seconds, but the treated area of the tooth darkens. Margherita Fontana, a dentistry researcher at the University of Michigan, called the method effective and safe even for children as young as one year old. The study was conducted only on baby teeth, so it is unknown whether SDF will replace fillings for permanent teeth. In the US, the drug is already approved for reducing sensitivity, but not for treating cavities. The authors hope the data will serve as a basis for separate approval.