(1) Mohammed Ejresh (2)Ola hatem tuman

Abstract :

Background:
Dental caries remains one of the most prevalent oral health problems worldwide, particularly among children and socioeconomically disadvantaged populations. Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF) has emerged as a simple, affordable, and minimally invasive therapeutic option for arresting and preventing dental caries. However, the successful implementation of SDF in clinical practice depends largely on dentists’ knowledge, awareness, and attitude toward its use.

Aim:
This study aimed to evaluate the knowledge, awareness, and attitude of dentists in Iraq toward the use of Silver Diamine Fluoride in the prevention and management of dental caries.

Materials and Methods:
A cross-sectional online survey was conducted among dentists in Iraq using a structured questionnaire. The questionnaire assessed dentists’ knowledge, awareness, clinical experience, and attitude regarding the use of SDF in dental practice. A total of 150 dentists participated in the study. The collected data were analyzed statistically using appropriate descriptive statistical methods.

Results:
The findings showed that the majority of participants had a moderate level of knowledge regarding SDF use, representing 57.0% of the respondents. Regarding attitude, nearly half of the participants demonstrated a moderate attitude toward SDF, accounting for 49.0%, while 29.8% showed a positive attitude toward its clinical application.

Conclusion:
The study revealed that most dentists in Iraq had a moderate level of knowledge and attitude toward Silver Diamine Fluoride. Although SDF is considered an effective, affordable, and minimally invasive option for caries prevention and management, its wider clinical use may depend on improving dentists’ awareness, practical training, and confidence in its application. Therefore, continuing dental education programs are recommended to enhance the implementation of SDF in routine dental practice.