Comparison of Anticariogenic Efficacy of 600 ppm Nano-silver Fluoride and 38% Silver Diamine Fluoride in Primary Molars: A Preliminary Clinical Trial.

Abstract

Aims and background: This study aimed to evaluate the caries-arresting efficacy of 38% silver diamine fluoride (SDF) and nano-silver fluoride (NSF) 600 ppm with semiannual application over a 6-month follow-up period.

Materials and methods: Conducted in accordance with the Declaration of Helsinki, 125 children aged 5-7 years were screened, and 24 children with 57 carious teeth were included. Teeth were treated with either 38% SDF or NSF 600 ppm. Follow-up examinations were conducted at 1, 3, and 6 months. Caries arrest was assessed visually and tactilely using the def index.

Statistical analysis: Data were analyzed using SPSS 20 with a significance level of 0.05. Descriptive statistics were represented in percentages, and Pearson's Chi-squared test was used for categorical data analysis. The Kolmogorov-Smirnov test checked data normality.

Results: NSF 600 showed a higher caries arrest rate (72.4%) compared to 38% SDF (57.1%) (p = 0.008). Occlusal surfaces exhibited a higher caries arrest rate (71.8%) than proximal surfaces (56.1%) (p = 0.011).

Conclusion: NSF 600 is more effective in arresting caries than 38% SDF, particularly on occlusal surfaces. NSF 600 offers a noninvasive, esthetically favorable, and cost-effective alternative to SDF, enhancing dental care accessibility for disadvantaged communities.

How to cite this article: Mareddy AR, Reddy VN, Rehaman T, et al. Comparison of Anticariogenic Efficacy of 600 ppm Nano-silver Fluoride and 38% Silver Diamine Fluoride in Primary Molars: A Preliminary Clinical Trial. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2025;18(3):271-275.