Silver Diamine Fluoride Compared With Calcium Hydroxide for Indirect Pulp Treatment in Primary Molars: A Randomized Controlled Trial; [فلوراید دیآمین نقره در مقای سه با هیدروکسید کلسی م برا ی درمان غیرمست قیم پالپ در مولرهای شیری: یک کارآزمایی تصادف یساز یشده و کنتر لشده] Publisher

Summary: Can silver diamine fluoride (SDF) replace calcium hydroxide in indirect pulp capping? Research suggests SDF is just as effective in managing deep caries in kids. #DentalResearch #OralHealth

Ziaee N ; Mosharrafian S ; Baniebrahimi G ; Moshkbouy E
Source: Journal of Isfahan Medical School Published:2026

Abstract

Background: Indirect pulp capping (IPC) is a conservative approach used to manage deep carious lesions in primary teeth while preserving pulp vitality. Calcium hydroxide has traditionally been used as the standard liner, but silver diamine fluoride (SDF) has recently emerged as a potential alternative due to its antimicrobial properties and ability to arrest caries. Methods: This randomized controlled clinical trial included 56 primary molars from children aged 3 to 7 years with deep carious lesions but no signs of irreversible pulp involvement. Participants were randomly assigned to receive IPC with either calcium hydroxide (Dycal) or 30% SDF. All teeth were restored with stainless steel crowns. Clinical outcomes were assessed at 3 and 6 months, and radiographic evaluation was performed at 6 months. Success was defined by the absence of pain, pathological changes in the gingiva, or radiographic signs of pulp pathology. Findings: At both 3 and 6 months, there was no statistically significant difference between the two groups in terms of clinical success (Dycal: 96.4%, SDF: 92.9%) or radiographic success (Dycal: 96.4%, SDF: 92.9%). Minor clinical and radiographic failures were observed in both groups, but overall success rates remained high. Conclusion: Silver diamine fluoride demonstrated similar clinical and radiographic effectiveness to calcium hydroxide for IPC in primary molars. It may be considered a suitable alternative, particularly in situations where ease of use and antimicrobial activity are prioritized. © 2026, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences(IUMS). All rights reserved.