Silver diamine fluoride (SDF) has been shown to be a successful treatment for arresting caries. A study published in the International Journal of Paediatric Dentistry characterized the effects of SDF on dentine caries induced by Streptococcus mutans and Actinomyces naeslundii. The study involved 32 artificially demineralized human dentine blocks, of which 16 were inoculated with S mutans and 16 with A naeslundii. Either SDF or water was applied to 8 blocks in each group. Using scanning electron microscopy, colony forming units, and confocal microscopy, biofilm morphology, microbial kinetics, and viability were evaluated. The cross section of the dentine carious lesions was assessed by microhardness testing, scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive x-ray spectroscopy, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The study found that biofilm counts were reduced in SDF groups compared to the water control groups (P < .01). Surfaces of carious lesions were harder after SDF application than after water application (P < .05), and lesions showed a significantly reduced level of matrix to phosphate after SDF treatment (P < .05). The study showed that SDF possesses an antimicrobial activity against cariogenic biofilm of S mutans or A naeslundii formed on dentine surfaces. SDF slowed down demineralization of dentine. This dual activity could be the reason behind clinical success of SDF.
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