Semiannual application of 5% sodium fluoride (NaF) varnish is more effective than 38% silver diamine fluoride (SDF) varnish in preventing approximal caries in primary teeth, according to a study presented at the 2021 International Association for Dental Research (IADR) virtual meeting.
In this randomized clinical trial, researchers from Mahidol University in Bangkok evaluated the effectiveness of 38% SDF varnish (Topamine), 5% sodium fluoride varnish (Duraphat), or placebo (water) in preventing approximal caries in primary teeth.
Children ages 4 to 6 years were included who had at least one sound approximal surface at the distal surface of canines or the mesial or distal surface of the first and second molars assessed from bitewing radiographs. All agents were applied semiannually, and the development of new caries was assessed by bitewing radiographic examinations after six, 12, and 18 months.
Development rates of new approximal caries were 22.5% in the SDF group, 13.6% in the NaF group, and 24.3% in the placebo group. Based on the results, the semiannual application of NaF varnish is more effective than SDF in preventing approximal caries in primary teeth, the researchers concluded.
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