Parental Acceptance of Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF) for Treating Dental Caries in Pediatric Patients: A Comparative Study on Anterior vs. Posterior Teeth and Implications for Anesthesia

Abstract

This study investigates parental acceptance of Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF) for treating dental caries in children, focusing on preferences related to anterior (front) versus posterior (back) teeth. Given the esthetic implications of SDF, particularly in visible areas, acceptance varies significantly between anterior and posterior teeth. Additionally, the study explores the potential of SDF to reduce the necessity for general anesthesia among uncooperative pediatric patients. Survey responses from a cohort of parents indicate a higher acceptance for posterior teeth applications, with a notable reluctance for anterior teeth. Findings highlight the potential of SDF as an alternative to invasive treatments in posterior teeth, especially for uncooperative children, emphasizing a need for clinician-parent communication regarding esthetic and functional considerations of SDF application.