The Role of Silver Diamine Fluoride in Dental Care

In this episode of Oral Health Matters, host Dr. Karlynn Sievers speaks with Beau Meyer, DDS, MPH, a board-certified pediatric dentist and associate professor at The Ohio State University, about silver diamine fluoride (SDF) and its growing use in medical settings. Meyer explains how this minimally invasive liquid arrests dental caries through antibacterial action and fluoride-driven remineralization, making it especially valuable in pediatrics, school-based programs, long-term care, and communities with limited dental access. They discuss safety, case selection, informed consent, and practical application guidance for primary care providers, including recognizing when referral is needed. The episode also covers effectiveness, follow-up protocols, and recent reimbursement developments that are expanding physician use of SDF.

 

Oral Health Matters is produced by Association Briefings.