Feasibility of community-based silver diamine fluoride (SDF) initiatives for dental caries control: An Indian perspective

Abstract

Early childhood caries (ECC) continues to affect most children globally, especially in developing nations. Many cases of caries are left untreated, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, because these countries have large populations, restricted medical resources, and rising demand for dental health services. Community-based care can effectively meet the requirements by providing direct access to places where children reside, attend school, or obtain regular assistance. Countries like Hong Kong, Mongolia and the United States of America are successfully running programmes and focusing on community-based Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF) to control dental caries in children. SDF can be applied in any setting, does not require sophisticated dental equipment, and can lower healthcare expenses and limit the global burden of dental caries. SDF should be a part of various oral health promotion schemes in a developing country like India, where more than 50% of the population belongs to economically weaker strata. This review article aims to discuss the effectiveness of SDF in various community-based dental caries programmes and to encourage its usage as an accessible and reasonable alternative to enhance the oral health-related quality of life in a developing country like India.