A simple silver liquid may halt cavities in Toddlers—Without drilling

NCT ID NCT03649659

First seen Aug 12, 2026 · Last updated Aug 13, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This trial tests whether a liquid called silver diamine fluoride (SDF) can stop cavities in baby teeth. About 830 children aged 12 months to 5 years with active cavities will receive either SDF or a placebo applied to their teeth twice, six months apart. Researchers will check if the cavities become hard (arrested) after each treatment. The goal is to see if SDF is a better option than doing nothing to stop tooth decay in young children.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance
Silver diamine fluoride (SDF), a liquid applied to teeth to stop cavities
What this could lead to
If it works, this could offer a simple, non-invasive way to stop cavities in baby teeth, potentially reducing the need for drilling or fillings in young children.
What could go wrong
This is a Phase III trial, but results are not yet known. The treatment may not be more effective than placebo, and there could be side effects like tooth staining or temporary taste changes.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • New York University College of Dentistry

    New York, New York, 10010, United States

  • University of Iowa College of Dentistry

    Iowa City, Iowa, 52242, United States

  • University of Michigan School of Dentistry

    Ann Arbor, Michigan, 48109, United States

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