60 - SDF vs. SMART vs. ART Technique: Understanding the Recurrence of Decay and Efficacy of Treatment

Abstract:

Purpose: Silver diamine fluoride (SDF) has been proven to be a highly effective preventative therapy to arrest carious lesions. SDF is a strong fluoride agent that delivers 44,800 ppm of fluoride in one application. This interim treatment modality has been successful in treating pediatric patients, patients with special needs, geriatric patients, and many other populations.

The SMART technique is an interim restorative treatment in which caries is excavated, an SDF varnish is placed, then resin-modified glass ionomer (RMGI) is used to restore the carious lesion, with sealant being placed on top of the restoration. This technique aims to arrest caries while also serving as a placeholder until a more definitive treatment option is available for the patient.

Though both techniques have shown evidence of efficacy, research comparing the two is limited.

This retrospective study aims to determine which technique—SDF or SMART— has a higher chance of arresting caries. This can help clinicians with critical treatment planning for pediatric and special needs populations in dentistry.

Methods: Using retrospective data, radiographs for patients who received SDF treatment were compared to patients who received the SMART technique.

Results: Data analysis will progress over several months. The hypothesis is that SMART will have a higher rate of arresting caries.

Conclusion: SDF and SMART prove to be key, inexpensive adjunctive treatment modalities that serve a great purpose for pediatric and special needs patients. Understanding the efficacy of both treatments can allow for better treatment planning and improved oral health outcomes.

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