Effectiveness of Silver diamine fluoride on arresting dental caries and Oral Health-Related Quality of Life in Koh Samui prisoners

Abstract

Background: Dental caries remains a major oral health problem among prisoners due to overcrowding, limited resources, and restricted access to dental care. Silver diamine fluoride (SDF) at 38% concentration is a low-cost, non-invasive agent widely recognized for its effectiveness in arresting dental caries. However, evidence regarding its impact on oral health–related quality of life (OHRQoL) among prison populations is still limited.

Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of 38% SDF in arresting active caries and to assess changes in OHRQoL using the Oral Impacts on Daily Performances (OIDP) index among inmates at Koh Samui District Prison, Surat Thani.

Methods: A quasi-experimental study was conducted with 27 inmates diagnosed with dental caries. Participants received topical application of 38% SDF to cavitated lesions and were re-evaluated after 3 months. Clinical parameters (active/arrested caries) and OIDP scores were assessed. Data were analyzed using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test.

Results: After 3 months, 97.7% of treated teeth showed arrested caries. The mean OIDP score decreased significantly from 6.63±5.09 to 2.63±3.90 (p < 0.05), with notable improvements in eating and oral hygiene activities.

Conclusion: The application of 38% SDF is a simple, cost-effective, and non-invasive approach for managing dental caries in resource-limited prison settings. Beyond clinical benefits, SDF contributes to improving OHRQoL among inmates, supporting its integration into prison oral health services and policies.