Parental Acceptance of Silver Diamine Fluoride Treatment for Carious Lesions

Objectives The purpose of this study was to determine parental acceptability of the use of Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF) as an alternative treatment for carious legions. In addition, we examined potential factors influencing higher levels of SDF acceptance. Methods Project was approved by the institutional review board. Parents of patients receiving care at Nova Southeastern University’s dental clinics were asked to review an educational document related to the use and side effects of SDF; surveys were then distributed to assess willingness to use this treatment for their child. SDF acceptance was measured by mean scores on the SDF Feasibility Questionnaire; higher scores indicated higher levels of SDF acceptance. Descriptive statistics were calculated to describe the sample (N=160) in terms of demographic and patient characteristics, and previous behavioral and dental visit characteristics. Bivariate logistic regression models were used to predict higher SDF acceptability by patient demographics, and behavioral and dental visit characteristics. Results Over half of the sample was male (62%), and ages 1-10 (65%); 38% were diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). In terms of dental history, 51% reported having a cavity, and 27% had been treated with nitrous oxide, 19% had oral sedation and 14% had general anesthesia. Those reporting the previous use of oral sedation had two times higher odds of SDF acceptance score (OR 2.2; [95% CI 0.99, 4.85], p=.05). Demographics, diagnosis of ASD, previous cavities and behavior during treatment had no impact on SDF acceptance. Conclusion Findings suggest that SDF was more acceptable among those with a history of oral sedation, perhaps because SDF is a less time-consuming and risky procedure. In addition, given that oral conscious sedation does not guarantee cooperation and can take multiple, time consuming appointments, SDF may be a more feasible alternative