In caries management, SDF contributes to arresting caries progression primarily by which effect?

• A. Arresting caries process
• B. Immediate full restoration without drilling
• C. Preventing eruption of teeth
• D. Changing tooth color

Answer: (A)

The main idea is that silver diamine fluoride stops caries from progressing. The silver component provides an antimicrobial effect, reducing the bacterial load and inhibiting activities that drive decay, while the fluoride helps remineralize the demineralized dentin, making the lesion harder and more resistant to further breakdown. Together, these actions halt the activity of the lesion and prevent further spread of decay. The other ideas—restoring the tooth immediately without drilling, preventing eruption, or a cosmetic color change—do not explain why the decay stops advancing. The color change is a cosmetic consequence, not the mechanism of arrest.