Objective: Minimally invasive techniques that use silver compounds and glass ionomer cement are suggested for caries management due to their effectiveness, simplicity, and low cost. The aim of this review is to examine the evidence supporting the use of silver compounds and glass ionomer cement in dentistry.
Study design: Literature was searched using PubMed, Elsevier, EBSCO, Google scholar, AAPD and UABC's database from 1958 to 2018 with the keywords: "Silver nitrate", "silver diamine fluoride", and "glass ionomer cement". The selected studies were then fully read to prove their relevance for this review.
Results: The use of glass ionomer cement and silver compounds were shown to be effective in arresting caries. These compounds reduce cariogenic microorganisms. Their chemical properties inhibit bacterial growth while promoting remineralization. They are simpler and less time consuming than conventional restorations. They also cause less discomfort and anxiety to patients. Silver compounds were shown to stain teeth and may burn the cornea if used in high concentration. These disadvantages limit the use of silver compounds to posterior teeth and require caution when handling.
Conclusions: Minimally invasive therapies are easy to apply, non-invasive and affordable. Further studies should be done to provide more evidence of these techniques for caries management.
Keywords: Atraumatic Restorative Treatment (ART); glass ionomer cement (GIC); inhibition of bacterial growth; remineralization; silver diamine fluoride (SDF); silver nitrate (SN).