Comparing Three Methods to Detect Remaining Cavities in Primary Teeth After Minimally Invasive Treatment Using Fluorescence, Dye, and Visual Checks

What this Trial Is About

Effective management of dental caries in primary teeth is important for relieving pain, preventing infection, and maintaining a childs overall health. This research aims to compare three methodsFluorescence-Aided Caries Excavation FACE, caries detection dye, and clinical observationto see which best detects leftover caries on cavity walls after Atraumatic Restorative Treatment ART. ART is a minimally invasive treatment often used in children that removes decay without rotary tools and fills cavities with glass ionomer cement, but detecting residual caries can be challenging. Children aged 4 to 9 years who are healthy and cooperative will have their primary molars examined in six cavity wall regions. The study compares residual caries detection using FACE with the D-light Pro GC device, caries detection dye, and clinical observation in a randomized, double-blinded manner. If any method finds residual caries, additional removal is done before final restoration with high-viscosity glass ionomer cement following ART protocols. Participants will undergo examination during a single visit lasting up to 10 minutes. Two independent observers will record if caries are present or absent on each cavity wall for statistical analysis. Data on age, gender, tooth location, tooth type, and dental health index will also be collected. The primary outcome measures focus on detection accuracy immediately after caries removal, with no follow-up visits required. This study seeks to guide clinicians in improving long-term success of ART in children.

Detection of Residual Caries on Class II Cavity Walls in Primary Teeth Following Atraumatic Restorative Treatment (ART)