Evaluation of self-perceived knowledge and attitudes towards the use of silver diamine fluoride in pediatric dentists

• Author Details:   
• Ximena Alejandra León Ríos
• César Alfonso Bravo Carrillo
• Rocio Azucena Armas Quiliano ^*

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Background: Educational institutions and public health entities play a crucial role in promoting awareness of the clinical and social benefits of SDF in pediatric dentists. Increasing the dissemination of evidence-based information can help improve parental acceptance and encourage its use as a minimally invasive, cost-effective option for managing dental caries. By integrating SDF education into dental training programs and community outreach initiatives, professionals can foster better oral health practices from an early age, ultimately contributing to the reduction of untreated caries and improving children's overall well-being.

Aim: To assess the self-perceived knowledge and attitudes of pediatric dentists in Peru regarding the use of silver diamine fluoride (SDF).

Materials and methods: A validated self-reported questionnaire was administered to 278 pediatric dentists in Peru. Covariates regarding pediatric dentists’ general characteristics, frequency of SDF use, education about SDF, information sources for SDF, and possible barriers to SDF use were collected.

Results: The majority (77.28%) of the respondents agreed that SDF is a good non-invasive treatment alternative for restorations in children with behavioral problems such as severe dental anxiety, and 70.87% mentioned it as a useful alternative for patients who cannot obtain conventional dental care or be managed by pharmacological behavioral intervention treatments. As for possible barriers to the use of SDF: 12.59% of the respondents point out the inability to restore form and function, as well as the lack of scientific knowledge, and 7.91% consider that parental acceptance also hinders its application.

Conclusion: Pediatric dentists exhibit a positive attitude toward the use of silver diamine fluoride; however, reinforcing their knowledge is essential to encourage its broader application, particularly in the current context.