Active not recruitingOBSERVATIONAL

General Dentists' Knowledge, Attitudes and Clinical Usage of SDF

This research is looking into how dentists in the UK use a treatment called Silver Diamine Fluoride, or SDF. SDF is a liquid that can stop tooth decay and is really helpful for children, as it means less drilling or needles. However, it seems not many dentists are using it regularly. This study aims to find out why this is the case. Dentists will fill out an anonymous online survey about what they know about SDF, how they use it, and anything that stops them from using it more often, like training needs or concerns about cost. The goal is to understand how to help more dentists use SDF, ultimately improving children's dental health.

At a glance

Status

Active not recruiting

Sponsor

University of Edinburgh

Enrolment target

Start

03 Mar 2025

Estimated completion

01 Sep 2026

Decay, Dental

What is this study about?

Imagine a liquid treatment that can help stop tooth decay without the need for drilling or injections, especially good for children. That's what Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF) is, and it's a very helpful tool for dentists. However, it seems that even though it's available, not many dentists in the UK are using it often in their daily practice.

This study wants to understand why this is happening. The researchers are asking dentists across the UK to complete an anonymous online survey. They want to find out what dentists know about SDF, whether they're using it, and what might be stopping them from using it more. For example, they might want to know if dentists need more training, are worried about the cost, or think patients might not like it.

The information gathered from these surveys will help researchers understand the challenges and successes around using SDF. The main aim is to find ways to help more dentists feel confident and able to use this treatment. By doing so, it could make it easier to deal with tooth decay in children and generally improve their dental health across the country. This research is important because it could lead to better and simpler ways to look after children's teeth.

Key takeaways

This study is about dentists' use of a tooth decay treatment called SDF.
SDF can help stop decay, especially in children, without drilling.
Researchers want to know why more dentists aren't using SDF regularly.
The study involves an anonymous online survey for dentists.
The goal is to improve how dentists use SDF to benefit children's dental health.

Who may be eligible?

This study is looking for general dentists who are currently working in specific areas of the UK: Lothian (Scotland) and Yorkshire (England). To take part, dentists must be officially registered with the General Dental Council, which is the organisation that oversees dentists in the UK.

Dentists who work in other parts of the UK, or those who don't treat child patients, won't be able to join this study. Also, dentists who only work in private practice and don't offer NHS services, or those who have stopped practicing, can't take part. Specialists (like orthodontists or gum disease experts) or dental students are also not included.

Quick self-check

Are you a general dentist (not a specialist)?
Are you currently working as a dentist in Lothian or Yorkshire?
Are you officially registered with the General Dental Council?
Do you treat child patients?
Do you offer NHS services?
Are you currently practicing (not retired or a student)?

This is a guide only — the research team will confirm whether you can take part.

What does participation involve?

If you are a dentist who is eligible for this study, taking part involves completing an anonymous online survey. You won't need to visit any clinics or undergo any medical assessments related to your own health. There are no medications or follow-up appointments required for the study itself. The survey will ask questions about your knowledge and use of Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF). The total time commitment for you would just be the time it takes to fill in the online questionnaire.

Potential risks and benefits

As a dentist taking part in this survey, there are no direct health risks involved. The main benefit is contributing to research that could help improve children's dental care in the UK. By sharing your experiences, you'll help identify barriers to using an effective treatment like SDF, potentially leading to better dentist training and wider use of this helpful treatment. You are free to stop taking part in the survey at any point without explanation.

Locations (1)

NHS Lothian
Edinburgh, United Kingdom

Common questions

What is SDF?

SDF stands for Silver Diamine Fluoride. It's a liquid dental treatment that helps to stop tooth decay from getting worse, especially useful for children, sometimes avoiding drilling.

Who is this study for?

This study is for general dentists who are currently practicing in Lothian or Yorkshire in the UK and are registered with the General Dental Council.

Do I need to be using SDF to participate?

No, the study wants to understand both dentists who use SDF and those who don't, to get a full picture of why it is or isn't being used.

How long will the survey take?

The study description doesn't specify the exact length, but online surveys of this type are usually designed to be completed within a reasonable timeframe, often 10-30 minutes.

Will my answers be kept private?

Yes, the study mentions that the online survey will be anonymous, meaning your identity won't be linked to your answers.