Managing Caries in the Primary Dentition With Silver Nitrate: Lessons Learned From a Clinical Trial

ABSTRACT

“Lessons learned” are reported from a clinical trial comparing conventional restorative treatment to management of caries in the primary dentition using silver nitrate. Key findings include: Silver nitrate provides an effective means for arresting caries in the primary dentition; some lesions progress and new lesions appear despite silver nitrate application; radiographs are important; there can be collateral benefit with silver nitrate application; and interproximal application of silver nitrate can be a challenge.

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Notes on contributors

Michael J. Kanellis

Michael J. Kanellis, DDS, MS, is associate dean for patient care and a professor in pediatric dentistry at the University of Iowa College of Dentistry and Dental Clinics.

Arwa I. Owais

Arwa I. Owais, BDS, MS, is an associate professor in pediatric dentistry at the University of Iowa College of Dentistry and Dental Clinics.

John J. Warren

John J. Warren, DDS, MS, is a professor in preventive and community dentistry at the University of Iowa College of Dentistry and Dental Clinics.

Deborah V. Dawson

Deborah V. Dawson, BA, ScM, PhD, is a professor in biostatistics at the University of Iowa College of Dentistry and Dental Clinics.

Alberto Gasparoni

Alberto Gasparoni, DDS, MS, PhD, is the director of the Admissions Clinic at the University of Iowa College of Dentistry and Dental Clinics.

Reem R. Oweis

Reem R. Oweis, BDS, MS, is a pediatric dentistry resident at the University of Iowa College of Dentistry and Dental Clinics.

Mary Akers

Mary Akers, RDA, is a certified dental assistant in pediatric dentistry at the University of Iowa College of Dentistry and Dental Clinics.

Derek Blanchette

Derek Blanchette, BA, MS, is a biostatistician at the University of Iowa College of Dentistry and Dental Clinics.

Matthew K. Geneser

Matthew K. Geneser, DDS, is an associate professor in pediatric dentistry at the University of Iowa College of Dentistry and Dental Clinics.

Wei Liu

Wei Liu, BDS, MS, was a biostatistician at the University of Iowa College of Dentistry and Dental Clinics.

Mary C. Skotowski

Cathy C. Skotowski, BS, MS, is an assistant professor in pediatric dentistry at the University of Iowa College of Dentistry and Dental Clinics.

Karin Weber-Gasparoni

Karin Weber-Gasparoni, DDS, MS, PhD, is an associate professor and chair in pediatric dentistry at the University of Iowa College of Dentistry and Dental Clinics.