Silver diamine fluoride (SDF) is a treatment that is widely used internationally for management of tooth decay in primary (baby) teeth. Research has shown it is effective at stopping decay progressing, is quick and non-invasive but it is not commonly used in the UK. It permanently changes the yellow-brown colour of tooth decay to black.
Before a large-scale study of SDF compared to usual care can be conducted in primary dental care, several important considerations require investigation. This project involves a feasibility study with children aged 2-6 years with dental decay in their primary teeth to explore these considerations. Children will be randomly assigned to either have SDF treatment or usual care. This treatment will be provided by at different dental practices and involve 80 children. Data will be collected and interviews carried out with families and dental professionals to inform future evaluations of SDF in the UK.
