Effectiveness of silver diamine fluoride (SDF) in arresting caries in 3-6 years old children - a community based randomised control trial.

Rationale-- Traditional treatment approach of drill-and-fill", is associated with pain and fear for small age children. Traditionally, dental caries treatment requires surgical restorative approach, with sophisticated dental equipment and well-trained operators, and is relatively expensive.  SDF offers an alternative innovative treatment option for caries. It is a practical, affordable, and acceptable option for caries treatment, eliminating the need for fear related dental treatment in young children, and can improve long-term oral health outcomes even at community level.

Novelty- This study is probably the first one to investigate the effectiveness of SDF 38% and GIC in arresting caries of young children of rural area at community level program. Due to the under-developed oral health care system at rural level, most of the decayed teeth in children remain untreated. Untreated dental caries in children can lead to problems with food intake, sleep, daily activities, and self-esteem. Caries arrest treatment with SDF is a non- invasive acceptable and affordable treatment option. Evidence that SDF is comparable in the treatment of dental caries in a school setting may substantially improve the reach and effectiveness of caries prevention as a dental public health intervention