The atraumatic restorative treatment (ART) technique: does it have a place in everyday practice?

The ART technique was introduced in the early 1990s. It involves the removal of carious tooth tissue with hand instruments followed by restoration with an adhesive material (glass-ionomer cement). Local anaesthetic is not always required for treatment and the technique has helped to bridge the gap in the provision of treatment to rural communities, senior citizens and dental phobic patients. This article looks at the development of the technique, its performance and potential areas of application.