.png)
Caries
Effect of Silver Diamine Fluoride on Caries Radiopacity
Gabriel, N, Sultan, M
Yale New Haven Hospital, New Haven, CT
Purpose:
The silver component of SDF has been recognized for its antibacterial properties, giving it the ability to disinfect lesions and arrest caries progression. Currently, no studies have examined whether this silver component appreciable alters the radiopacity of carious lesions. The goal of this study is to determine if the silver component in SDF causes carious lesions to appear more radiopaque in radiographs after initial and repeat applications.
Methods:
A sample of non-restorable carious primary anterior teeth were extracted due to hopeless prognosis. These teeth, which were never treated with SDF or surgical interventions prior to study, were mounted and radiographed from a set distance and angulation. SDF was then applied to the existing carious lesions following guidelines outlined by the AAPD. These SDF-treated teeth were subsequently radiographed again from the same set distance and angulation immediately following initial SDF application and again after two weeks. Comparison of radiopacity was performed for each set of radiographs.
Results:
Comparison of radiographs pre- and post- SDF treatment revealed significant changes in radiopacity of the carious lesions. Changes in radiopacity will be measured numerically based on difference in grayscale value. Paired T-test with chi square analysis will determine statistical significance.
Conclusion:
The preliminary results of this study support the hypothesis that the silver component in SDF causes carious lesions to appear significantly more radiopaque vs. pretreatment films. This finding provides proof of concept for using repeat radiographic assessment as a means to evaluate SDF penetration into otherwise non-accessible carious lesions.