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(NewsNation) — A low-cost liquid could help revolutionize the future of dental care for children, according to new research.
A study conducted by the University of Michigan, which began in 2018, found silver diamine fluoride (SDF) stopped decay in more than half of treated baby teeth. The treatment requires no drilling, shots or sedation.
“This is a very effective and safe treatment — even in children as young as 1,” said Dr. Margherita Fontana, the study’s lead investigator.
The Phase III trial involved 830 children younger than 6, with participants recruited through dental offices, pediatric medical practices, Head Start and Early Head Start programs in three states. Researchers noted 38 percent saw tooth decay stopped in over half the children’s affected baby teeth when treated at six-month intervals.
“Our results support [Food and Drug Administration] approval of SDF for managing arrest of tooth decay in young children,” added Dr. Amr Moursi of New York University.
“Removing SDF from off-label status would be an important innovation which could lead to increased utilization by providers, enhanced payments by insurers and more consistent product quality,” Moursi said.
Tooth decay remains the most persistent disease among children, affecting over 40 percent alone in the U.S. Cavities left untreated result in infections, intense pain and repeated medical appointments.
What is Silver diamine fluoride, or SDF?
Silver diamine fluoride is a liquid painted onto the cavity with a sponge-tipped applicator.
SDF prevents or restrains decay without drilling or shots.
The liquid his approved in the U.S. for tooth sensitivity and dentists have been using it off-label since then. SDF has yet to receive FDA approval for tooth decay, however, due to its shortage of clinical trials. Outside the U.S., it has been used successfully in many countries for decades.
How much does SDF cost and is it safe?
According to the Dental Clinics of Texas, the treatment typically ranges from $20 to $75 per application.
The clinic adds that SDF is safe to treat cavities.
Fontana notes that applying SDF to children could control the cavity until the baby tooth falls out naturally. For adults, it can be a long-term solution.
“For almost anyone, this can arrest the decay and stop the infection and the pain it causes,” she said. “This could benefit many people.”
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