KNOWLEDGE AND ATTITUDES TOWARDS THE USE OF SILVER DIAMINE FLUORIDE

Abstract: Objective: To evaluate self-perceived knowledge and attitudes towards the use of silver diamine fluoride in pediatric dentists in Perú. Materials and methods: An observational, analytical and cross-sectional study was carried out. A sample of 278 pediatric dentists was evaluated through a self-reported validated questionnaire to collect information on self-perceived knowledge and attitudes towards the use of silver diamine fluoride using a Likert scale. The questionnaire includes questions about general characteristics, frequency, education, information and possible barriers about the SDF were recorded. Results: 59.35% of pediatric dentists report frequently using silver diamine fluoride, while 13.67% never used it. Most of the respondents agreed that SDF is a good alternative for restorations in children with behavioral problems like severe dental anxiety, and 70.87% mention it as a useful alternative for patients who cannot obtain conventional dental care or be managed by pharmacological behavioral intervention treatments. On the other hand, with regards to the possible barriers for the use of SDF, 12.59% refer that a barrier is its inability to restore form or function, a lack of scientific knowledge is referred in 12.59%, and parental acceptance is a barrier for 7.91%. Conclusion: Healthcare workers have a positive attitude towards the use of this material; however, their knowledge must be reinforced to promote its use, especially nowadays in the current context.