The objective was to evaluate the effect of application of silver diamine fluoride (SDF) on discoloration of demineralized dentin over time. Dentin specimens were divided into four groups according to time of dentin demineralization. A 38% SDF solution was then applied to the dentin surfaces. Half of the specimens were placed in light-proof boxes while the remainder were exposed to light. Both groups were maintained at 37˚C. Color change was determined using a spectrophotometer at different time intervals. SEM/EDS analysis were also undertaken. The 13 h EDTA demineralized group showed the highest values for color change among different time intervals, with the control being the lowest. The light exposed groups showed more color change compared to the unexposed groups. We concluded that the degree of dentin demineralization leads to a significant increase of the rate of dentin color change after application of SDF.
Keywords: Demineralized dentin; Dentin discoloration; Silver diamine fluoride; Spectrophotometer.