Silver Diamine Fluoride could serve as an alternative to traditional dental sealants and atraumatic restorative treatments in preventing dental caries among school-aged children, according to the results of a new study.

CariedAway, a randomized clinical trial evaluating the performance of Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF) against sealants and atraumatic restorative treatments (ART), included a cohort of 7,418 children from underserved communities in New York, New York.

The trial published in JAMA Pediatrics aimed to determine whether SDF could provide comparable or superior caries prevention in a school-based setting, focusing on a population primarily composed of Black or Hispanic children. Participants were assigned to receive either SDF or the conventional sealants and ART, with the objective of monitoring the incidence and prevalence of dental caries over a specified period.

Study results found SDF to be noninferior to traditional sealants and ART, underscoring its potential as an effective primary intervention for caries prevention. Results support the use of SDF in mitigating oral health disparities among school-aged children, suggesting its significant role in promoting oral health equity through school-based prevention programs.

The study, funded by the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute, contributes to the ongoing efforts in public health to ensure equitable access to effective dental care solutions for all children, irrespective of their socioeconomic status.

Some investigators reported receiving funding from the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute and others had various industry disclosures.