Silver Diamine Fluoride in Pediatric Dentistry: Clinical Guide 2025

Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF) at 38% concentration has become an effective, safe, and minimally invasive alternative for the prevention and treatment of dental caries in pediatric patients.

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Its topical application allows the arrest of carious lesions without the need for invasive procedures, making it especially useful in children with high caries risk, behavioral challenges, or limited access to dental care.

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✅ 1. Scientific Basis
SDF combines the antibacterial properties of silver with the remineralizing effect of fluoride. Its mechanism of action includes:

° Bacterial inhibition: Silver ions denature bacterial proteins and enzymes, inhibiting their proliferation.
° Remineralization: Fluoride promotes the formation of fluorohydroxyapatite, strengthening enamel.
° Tubule occlusion: Helps reduce sensitivity and prevent further caries progression.

Recent studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of SDF in arresting active caries, with success rates exceeding 80% in primary dentition.

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✅ 2. Indications

° Active carious lesions in primary and young permanent teeth
° Children with high caries risk (e.g., severe early childhood caries)
° Patients with behavioral or medical challenges
Situations where conventional restorative treatment is not feasible

✅ 3. Contraindications

° Known allergy to silver, ammonium, or fluoride
° Oral ulcerative lesions, stomatitis, or mucositis
° Carious lesions with pulpal involvement or symptoms of irreversible pulpitis

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✅ 4. Application Protocol

➤ Required materials:
° 38% SDF solution
° Disposable microbrushes
° Sterile gauze
° Gloves and eye protection

➤ Procedure:
1. Clinical assessment: Identify active carious lesions visually and radiographically if needed.
2. Isolation: Dry the affected area with gauze (rubber dam is not necessary).
3. Application: Use a microbrush to apply a small amount of SDF directly to the lesion for 1–3 minutes.
4. Drying: Allow the area to air dry; avoid rinsing immediately.
5. Follow-up: Reassess in 2–4 weeks to determine lesion arrest.

➤ Frequency:
° In high-risk patients or those with poor oral hygiene, reapplication is recommended every 6 months.
° In low-risk patients, annual application may be sufficient.

✅ 5. Side Effects and Aesthetic Considerations

The main side effect is permanent black staining of the treated lesion, indicating caries arrest. While safe, this discoloration can be esthetically undesirable, especially on anterior teeth. To mitigate this, potassium iodide may be applied immediately after SDF to reduce staining intensity.

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✅ 6. Parental Acceptance

Parental acceptance of SDF depends on lesion location, the child’s behavior, and prior information provided. It is crucial to explain the benefits and possible esthetic outcomes to obtain informed consent.

✅ 7. Conclusions

38% SDF is a valuable tool in modern pediatric dentistry, offering an effective and non-invasive option for treating dental caries in children. Its simple, safe, and well-tolerated application is especially beneficial for vulnerable populations or those with limited access to care. Standardized protocols and proper parental education are essential to maximize its benefits.

📖 References

✔ Juarez Lopez, M. L. A., Marin Miranda, M., & Murrieta Pruneda, F. (2021). Silver Diamine Fluoride as a minimally invasive alternative in pediatric dental care: Narrative review. Revista de Odontopediatría Latinoamericana, 11(Suppl). https://doi.org/10.47990/alop.v11iSuplemento.482
✔ Sotillo, V., Limongi, I., Medina, A. C., & Martínez Vásquez, M. G. (2023). Silver Diamine Fluoride as therapy to inactivate cavitated caries lesions in primary teeth. Revista Científica CMDLT, 16. https://doi.org/10.55361/cmdlt.v16i1.71
✔ Pariona-Minaya, M. C. (2024). Use of Silver Diamine Fluoride for treating active carious lesions. Odontología Activa Revista Científica, 5(3). https://doi.org/10.31984/oactiva.v5i3.499
✔ Sabbagh, H., Othman, M., & Yaseen Abdulgader, A. A. (2020). Parental Acceptance of Silver Diamine Fluoride Application on Primary Dentition: a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. BMC Oral Health, 20(227):1-12. https://www.siicsalud.com/dato/resiic.php/165298
✔ Chimbo Sánchez, K. D. (2024). Uses of Silver Diamine Fluoride and its application in pediatric dentistry. Systematic review. Repositorio Digital Uniandes. https://dspace.uniandes.edu.ec/handle/123456789/17914

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Anesthesia in Pediatric Dentistry: Is It Safe for Children?

Anesthesia in pediatric dentistry is an essential tool to ensure that dental procedures in children are performed comfortably and without pain.

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However, the safety of its application in pediatric patients is a common concern among parents and healthcare professionals. This article addresses the risks associated with dental anesthesia in children and the necessary precautions to ensure its safe use.

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✅ Local Anesthesia in Pediatric Dentistry

Local anesthesia involves the temporary loss of sensation in a specific area of the body without affecting the patient’s level of consciousness. In pediatric dentistry, it is commonly used for procedures such as fillings, extractions, and root canal treatments on primary teeth.

➤ Safety and Effectiveness
Local anesthesia is generally safe in children when properly administered. Local anesthetics such as lidocaine and articaine are widely used. Lidocaine 2% with epinephrine 1:100,000 is considered the gold standard, while 4% articaine has proven to be equally effective and safe in pediatric procedures.
It is important to calculate the correct dosage based on the child’s weight and to monitor for any adverse reactions. Side effects are rare but may include allergic reactions or systemic toxicity if administered in excess.

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✅ Sedation in Pediatric Dentistry

Sedation is used to help children who experience anxiety or fear during dental procedures. There are different levels of sedation: minimal, moderate, deep, and general anesthesia.

➤ Conscious Sedation
Conscious sedation allows the child to be relaxed but still awake and responsive to stimuli. Nitrous oxide, also known as "laughing gas," is a popular option in pediatric dentistry. Its use has been shown to be safe and effective, with a low incidence of adverse effects.
➤ Deep Sedation and General Anesthesia
In more complex cases, or when the child is non-cooperative, deep sedation or general anesthesia may be required. These techniques must be administered by trained professionals in controlled environments, such as hospitals or specialized clinics, to ensure the patient’s safety.

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✅ General Safety Considerations

➤ Preoperative Evaluation: A full medical evaluation is essential before administering any type of anesthesia or sedation.
➤ Monitoring: Continuous monitoring of blood pressure, heart rate, and oxygen saturation is required during the procedure.
➤ Staff Training: Personnel administering anesthesia or sedation must be trained and prepared to handle any pediatric emergencies.
➤ Informed Consent: Parents or guardians should be thoroughly informed about the procedure, its risks, and available alternatives.

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✅ Conclusion

Anesthesia and sedation in pediatric dentistry are safe when performed following proper protocols by trained professionals. The choice between local anesthesia and sedation will depend on the nature of the procedure, the child’s age, and their level of anxiety. An individualized evaluation is essential to ensure the safety and well-being of pediatric patients.

📖 References

✔ Patiño Ortíz, P. E., & Chiriboga Ramón, P. L. (2022). Anesthesia in pediatric dentistry: conventional and alternative systems. ResearchGate. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/362011260
✔ Sociedad Española de Odontopediatría. (2013). Premedication and sedation protocol in pediatric dentistry. https://www.odontologiapediatrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/SedacionSEOP.pdf
✔ Torres Lefián, C., Sandoval Gorigoytía, J., & Monsalve Reyes, V. (2024). Safety of nitrous oxide as conscious sedation in pediatric dentistry: A scoping review. International Journal of Odontostomatology, 18(3), 305-310. https://ijodontostomatology.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/2024_v18n3_008.pdf
✔ Campos Medina, A. S. (2022). Scientific evidence on the use of local anesthetics in pediatric dentistry. Universidad Señor de Sipán. https://repositorio.uss.edu.pe/bitstream/handle/20.500.12802/9535/Campos%20Medina%20Alicia%20Sarai.pdf
✔ Soto, D., Chourio, F., & Pino, R. (2022). Administration of local anesthetics in pediatric dentistry. La Pasión del Saber, 12(21), 55–67. https://lapasiondelsaber.ujap.edu.ve/index.php/lapasiondelsaber-ojs/article/view/38
✔ Gaceta Dental. (2011). Sedation and general anesthesia in pediatric dental patients. https://gacetadental.com/2011/09/sedacin-y-anestesia-general-en-el-paciente-odontopeditrico-4338/
✔ Cadena SER. (2025, March 12). Conscious sedation in Hospital Dental Care: pain-free and anxiety-free treatments in Madrid. https://cadenaser.com/cmadrid/2025/03/12/sedacion-consciente-en-odontologia-hospitalaria-integral-tratamientos-sin-dolor-ni-ansiedad-en-madridsalud-y-bienestar-radio-madrid/
✔ Cadena SER. (2025, February 19). 'Mejor Acompáñame' platform calls for parents to accompany children during pre-sedation. https://cadenaser.com/aragon/2025/02/19/nace-la-plataforma-mejor-acompaname-para-que-los-menores-no-entren-solos-en-el-proceso-de-sedacion-radio-jaca-ser-pirineos/

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Management of Anaphylactic Shock in Children: Updated Guide for Dentists – Effective Prevention and Treatment

Pediatric dental care comes with various risks, including the possibility of anaphylactic reactions. Although rare, anaphylactic shock represents a life-threatening emergency that requires immediate recognition and management.

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✅ Definition
Anaphylactic shock is an acute, severe, and rapidly progressive systemic allergic reaction characterized by cardiovascular, respiratory, and/or gastrointestinal dysfunction, potentially fatal if not treated immediately (Simons et al., 2020). Anaphylaxis occurs after exposure to an allergen, such as local anesthetics, latex, antibiotics, or dental materials, and can develop within seconds or minutes.
According to the World Allergy Organization (WAO), anaphylactic shock involves severe hypotension or circulatory collapse associated with signs of organ hypoperfusion due to the massive release of inflammatory mediators (Muraro et al., 2022).

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✅ Signs and Symptoms
Early identification of signs and symptoms is crucial for successful management. These can be classified as:

➤ Cutaneous
Generalized urticaria
Angioedema (swelling of the lips, eyelids, or tongue)
Erythema
Itching
➤ Respiratory
Dyspnea
Laryngeal stridor
Bronchospasm
Persistent cough
Hoarseness
➤ Cardiovascular
Hypotension
Tachycardia
Arrhythmias
Dizziness or syncope
➤ Gastrointestinal
Nausea
Vomiting
Abdominal pain
Diarrhea
In children, respiratory symptoms tend to predominate over cardiovascular ones, highlighting the need for special attention to airway alterations during dental care (Turner et al., 2019).

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✅ Management of Anaphylactic Shock in Dental Care
The success of managing an anaphylactic reaction in the dental office depends on the preparation of the team, the knowledge of emergency protocols, and the availability of appropriate medications.

➤ Prevention
Before treatment:
° Conduct a thorough medical history.
° Identify any known allergies (latex, local anesthetics, antibiotics).
° Avoid sensitizing agents if there is a history of hypersensitivity.

➤ Immediate Management
1. Discontinue the dental procedure and remove the allergen if possible.
2. Administer intramuscular epinephrine (IM) in the anterolateral thigh. It is the first-line treatment:
° Pediatric dose: 0.01 mg/kg body weight (maximum 0.5 mg) every 5-15 minutes as needed (Shaker et al., 2020).
3. Place the patient in a supine position with the lower extremities elevated to favor venous return.
4. Administer supplemental oxygen at high flow (8–10 L/min).
5. Establish intravenous access for the administration of fluids if signs of shock are present.
6. Complementary therapies:
° Antihistamines (such as diphenhydramine) to control cutaneous symptoms.
° Systemic corticosteroids (such as hydrocortisone) to prevent biphasic reactions.
° Bronchodilators (such as albuterol inhaled) if bronchospasm occurs.
7. Activate emergency medical services for hospital transfer, even if symptoms are controlled in the office

➤ Special Considerations in Pediatrics
° Adjusted doses based on body weight.
° Closer respiratory monitoring, due to the high frequency of airway obstructions in children.
° Availability of pediatric epinephrine autoinjectors in high-risk offices.

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✅ Relevant Updates (2018–2024)
New clinical guidelines emphasize the importance of early administration of epinephrine, even with mild symptoms, to improve prognosis (Muraro et al., 2022).
Standardized dental emergency protocols have been developed, including visual algorithms to facilitate rapid response (Simons et al., 2020).
Research highlights the use of pediatric epinephrine autoinjectors as a safety measure in high-risk dental offices (Turner et al., 2019).

✅ Conclusion
Anaphylactic shock in children during dental care, while infrequent, represents a critical emergency that requires immediate intervention. Early recognition of symptoms, prompt epinephrine administration, and activation of emergency services are key to a successful outcome. Ongoing training of dental staff in emergency management protocols, the availability of emergency equipment, and thorough medical histories are essential for preventing fatal outcomes. Adhering to updated protocols based on current evidence ensures safer and more effective care in pediatric dental settings.

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📖 References
✔ Muraro, A., Worm, M., Alviani, C., Cardona, V., DunnGalvin, A., Eigenmann, P., ... & Sheikh, A. (2022). EAACI Guidelines on Anaphylaxis: 2022 update of the evidence base and support for the use of adrenaline auto-injectors. Allergy, 77(2), 358-377. https://doi.org/10.1111/all.15027
✔ Shaker, M. S., Wallace, D. V., Golden, D. B. K., Oppenheimer, J., Bernstein, J. A., Campbell, R. L., ... & Greenhawt, M. (2020). Anaphylaxis—a 2020 practice parameter update, systematic review, and GRADE analysis. Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, 145(4), 1082-1123. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jaci.2020.01.017
✔ Simons, F. E. R., Ardusso, L. R. F., Dimov, V., Ebisawa, M., El-Gamal, Y. M., Lockey, R. F., & World Allergy Organization. (2020). World Allergy Organization Anaphylaxis Guidance 2020. World Allergy Organization Journal, 13(10), 100472. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.waojou.2020.100472
✔ Turner, P. J., Jerschow, E., Umasunthar, T., Lin, R., Campbell, D. E., & Boyle, R. J. (2019). Fatal anaphylaxis: mortality rate and risk factors. Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, 137(2), 597-606. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jaci.2015.11.017

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Glass Ionomer Cement in Pediatric Dentistry: Benefits, Uses, and Step-by-Step Application Guide

Glass ionomer cement (GIC) is a widely used dental material in pediatric dentistry due to its strong adhesion, fluoride release, and biocompatibility.

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Characteristics of Glass Ionomer Cement
Glass ionomer cement consists of a powder and a liquid that, when mixed, form a rigid, adhesive matrix. The powder contains fluoroaluminosilicate glass, while the liquid consists of polyalkenoic acids in an aqueous solution. This composition enables chemical bonding to the tooth structure and sustained fluoride release, aiding in enamel remineralization and cavity prevention.

Benefits of Glass Ionomer Cement in Pediatric Dentistry
1. Fluoride Release: Provides long-term fluoride release, strengthening enamel and reducing the risk of cavities.
2. Chemical Adhesion: Bonds directly to enamel and dentin without the need for acid etching, simplifying clinical procedures.
3. Biocompatibility: Well-tolerated by dental and soft tissues, minimizing adverse reactions.
4. Thermal Expansion Similar to Natural Teeth: Reduces the risk of marginal leakage and ensures long-lasting adaptation.

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Disadvantages of Glass Ionomer Cement
1. Lower Mechanical Strength: Less resistant to wear and occlusal forces compared to composite resins.
2. Aesthetic Limitations: While improved, its translucency and color range may not fully match natural tooth appearance.
3. Moisture Sensitivity During Placement: Requires proper moisture control to prevent property alterations.

Uses of Glass Ionomer Cement in Pediatric Dentistry
° Restorations for Primary Teeth: Ideal for Class I, II, and V cavities in deciduous teeth due to its adhesion and fluoride release.
° Pit and Fissure Sealants: Used as a sealant in newly erupted permanent molars to prevent cavities.
° Liners and Bases: Serves as a protective base under restorations, providing thermal and chemical insulation.
° Cementation of Pediatric Crowns: Used for cementing stainless steel crowns on primary teeth.

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Step-by-Step Application of Glass Ionomer Cement
1. Cavity Preparation: Remove decayed tissue and clean the cavity without overextending margins.
2. Conditioning: Apply 10% polyacrylic acid for 10-15 seconds to enhance adhesion, then rinse and gently dry without dehydrating.
3. Mixing the Material: Follow the manufacturer’s recommended powder-to-liquid ratio, mixing until a homogeneous consistency is achieved.
4. Placement: Apply the glass ionomer cement into the prepared cavity, ensuring proper adaptation and avoiding air bubbles.
5. Initial Setting: Allow the material to set according to manufacturer instructions while protecting it from moisture and desiccation.
6. Finishing and Polishing: Once set, refine the restoration, adjust occlusion, and polish for improved aesthetics and longevity.

Conclusion
Glass ionomer cement is a valuable material in pediatric dentistry due to its adhesive properties, fluoride release, and biocompatibility. While it has some limitations in mechanical strength and aesthetics, its benefits for cavity prevention and ease of use make it a preferred choice for various pediatric dental applications.

References
1. Croll, T. P., & Nicholson, J. W. (2002). Glass ionomer cements in pediatric dentistry: Review of the literature. Pediatric Dentistry, 24(5), 423-429. Recuperado de
2. Berg, J. H. (2002). Glass ionomer cements. Pediatric Dentistry, 24(5), 430-438. Recuperado de
3. Sikka, N., & Brizuela, M. (2024). Glass Ionomer Cement. En StatPearls. StatPearls Publishing

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Management of Severe Acute Dental Infections

Severe acute dental infections are a critical concern in dentistry, as they can progress rapidly, causing systemic complications and posing a life-threatening risk if not managed promptly.

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A. Etiology and Pathogenesis
Severe dental infections are often caused by bacterial invasion into the dental pulp or surrounding structures. Common sources include:
° Untreated dental caries: Progression into pulpitis and periapical abscess.
° Periodontal infections: Spread to adjacent tissues.
° Traumatic injuries: Leading to necrosis of the pulp.
° Post-surgical complications: Including infections after extractions or implant placement.
The most frequently implicated bacteria are anaerobic organisms such as Prevotella and Fusobacterium, often in polymicrobial infections.

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B. Clinical Presentation
Patients with severe dental infections typically present with:
° Localized swelling: Often associated with pain and erythema.
° Fever and malaise: Indicating systemic involvement.
° Trismus and dysphagia: In cases of space infections such as Ludwig’s angina.
° Fluctuant abscesses or purulent drainage.
In advanced cases, airway compromise may occur, necessitating emergency intervention.

C. Management Strategies
1. Early Diagnosis
Timely identification of infection severity is crucial. Clinical examination, imaging (e.g., periapical radiographs, CT scans), and laboratory tests (e.g., white blood cell count) help guide diagnosis.
2. Drainage and Debridement
The cornerstone of treatment is surgical drainage to evacuate pus and relieve pressure. This may involve:
° Incision and drainage (I&D) of abscesses.
° Endodontic therapy: For infections localized to the pulp.
° Tooth extraction: For non-restorable teeth.
3. Antibiotic Therapy
Antibiotics are essential when systemic involvement is evident. Empiric therapy targets anaerobes and includes:
° Amoxicillin-clavulanate.
° Clindamycin (for penicillin-allergic patients).
°Metronidazole, in combination with penicillin or other broad-spectrum antibiotics.
Antibiotics should be adjusted based on culture and sensitivity results if available.
4. Supportive Care
° Analgesics: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for pain control.
° Hydration and nutrition: To prevent systemic deterioration.
° Hospitalization: In cases of airway compromise, systemic sepsis, or failure of outpatient management.
5. Referral to Specialists
Complex infections, such as those involving the deep cervical spaces or spreading to the mediastinum, require multidisciplinary management by oral and maxillofacial surgeons, otolaryngologists, or infectious disease specialists.

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D. Prevention
Preventive strategies include regular dental check-ups, patient education on oral hygiene, and prompt treatment of early dental caries or periodontal disease.

E. Conclusion
Severe acute dental infections demand swift and comprehensive management to prevent serious complications. Clinicians should focus on early diagnosis, appropriate surgical intervention, effective antimicrobial therapy, and interdisciplinary care in complex cases.

References
1. Flynn, T. R. (2006). Oral and maxillofacial infections: Current therapy. Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Clinics of North America, 18(4), 493-511.
2. Brook, I. (2011). *Microbiology and management of endodontic infections in children. Journal of Clinical Pediatric Dentistry, 36(2), 189-193.
3. Kuriyama, T., et al. (2000). *Factors affecting the clinical outcome of odontogenic infections. Oral Surgery, Oral Medicine, Oral Pathology, Oral Radiology, and Endodontology, 90(1), 95-100.

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Mucocele in Pediatric Dentistry: Clinical and pathological characteristics

Mucocele is a benign lesion that occurs in the oral mucosa and is the product of an alteration in the minor salivary glands. It is recognized as a swelling with mucous content, well circumscribed, and bluish in color.

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Poulopoulos A, Andreadis D, Parcharidis E, Grivea I, Syrogiannopoulos G, et al. (2017) Salivary Mucoceles in Children and Adolescents: A Clinicopathological Study. Glob J Medical Clin Case Rep 4(1): 011-014. DOI: 10.17352/2455-5282.000035

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Lewandowski B, Brodowski R, Pakla P, Makara A, Stopyra W, Startek B. Mucoceles of minor salivary glands in children. Own clinical observations. Dev Period Med. 2016;20(3):235-242. PMID: 27941195.

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