J Korean Acad Pediatr Dent.  2025 May;52(2):208-220. 10.5933/JKAPD.2025.52.2.208.

Effect of Light Curing after Silver Diamine Fluoride Application on Remineralization of Artificially Induced Enamel Caries

• Ryoo H
• Lee H
• Bae JM
• Ra J

• KMID: 2567997
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.5933/JKAPD.2025.52.2.208

Abstract

Silver diamine fluoride (SDF) is recognized as a reliable option for inhibiting caries progression without tooth removal and for preventing new lesions. However, most studies have focused on the management of dentin caries, and few studies have explored the use of SDF in conjunction with light curing for enamel caries. This study evaluated the effects of SDF and potassium iodide (KI) with additional light curing on the remineralization of artificially induced enamel caries. Sixty-four specimens were prepared from 32 primary molars. Of these, two were used to observe polished sound enamel surfaces, whereas the remaining 62 were demineralized to artificially induce caries. After excluding two specimens to observe the carious enamel surface, 60 specimens were randomly divided into four groups: Group I (SDF for 60 s), Group II (SDF for 10 s), Group III (SDF for 10 s + light curing for 3 s), and Group IV (SDF for 10 s + KI + light curing for 3 s). After the allocated interventions, all specimens were subjected to pH cycling for 8 days. The Vickers microhardness, surface morphology, and chemical composition of enamel were analyzed using a microhardness tester, field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), respectively. Group IV exhibited the greatest increase in microhardness, followed by Group III, with significant differences between the groups. Groups I and II showed smaller increases, without significant differences between the groups. SEM-EDS analysis revealed higher silver deposition in the lightcured groups, and iodine peaks were observed in Group IV, confirming the formation of silver iodide. The combination of SDF, KI, and light curing could enhance enamel remineralization and shorten the application time compared with that for SDF alone.

Keyword

Silver diamine fluoride; Light curing; Potassium iodide; Microhardness; Scanning electron microscopy; Energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy; Remineralization