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Silver diamine fluoride (SDF) has been around for years—but how it’s actually used in practice is still widely misunderstood.
From technique missteps to patient communication, this conversation moves beyond theory into the realities of clinical practice. The hosts challenge the idea that caries treatment must always be surgical, reframing SDF as a practical tool for arresting disease, stabilizing lesions, and buying time—especially in high-risk or complex cases.
They also explore how SDF integrates with restorative approaches like glass ionomer (SMART technique), and where it makes the most sense across different patient populations, including pediatric and elderly patients.
Along the way, the discussion touches on a growing tension in dentistry: how coding, reimbursement, and legacy practice models can shape clinical decisions—sometimes in ways that don’t fully align with disease management.
You can watch the full episode on Youtube.
More episodes of Dentistry Unmasked:
About the Author
Pamela Maragliano, DMD
Chief Editor of Dental Economics
Pamela Maragliano, DMD, is the chief editor of Dental Economics. Based in Salem, Massachusetts, Dr. Maragliano began her clinical career as a dental hygienist. She went on to attend Tufts University School of Dental Medicine, where she earned her doctorate in dental medicine. She then attended the University of California, Los Angeles, School of Dental Medicine, where she became board-certified in prosthodontics. Dr. Maragliano owns a private practice, Salem Dental Arts, and lectures on a variety of clinical topics. You may contact her at [email protected].
Brian B. Nový, DDS
Brian B. Nový, DDS, is the chief dental officer of the Alliance Dental Center, Massachusetts Public Employees Fund. He served as president of the National CAMBRA Coalition and is currently the consumer representative to the United States Food & Drug Administration Dental Products Panel. His awards include the American Dental Association (ADA) Adult Preventive Care Practice of the Year, the Academy of General Dentistry Weclew Award, the Dugoni Award, and the ADA Evidence-Based Dentistry Practice Award.