Systematic review of conservative operative caries management strategies

The relationship between cavity preparation extension and restoration longevity is examined through a systemic review of the available evidence on specific conservative, operative caries-management strategies. Evidence tables are provided for three specific techniques in the permanent dentition: 1) the proximal "tunnel" restoration, 2) the proximal "box-only" restoration, and 3) the preventive resin restoration. In the primary dentition, the clinical trials involving the proximal box-only restoration, most of which involved glass-ionomer materials, are reviewed. In the permanent dentition, the evidence reveals low effectiveness for "tunnel" restorations, limited but supportive results for proximal-only restorations, and generally favorable outcomes for the occlusal composite resin-sealant restoration. The weak link in the latter is the overlying fissure sealant, which requires adequate ongoing maintenance. Conservative operative strategies in the primary dentition have not been uniformly successful, and deleterious material effects dominate restoration performance. This systematic review concludes that operative conservatism per se does not guarantee increased restoration longevity and that all restorations are vulnerable to caries recurrence, material failures, and technical deficiencies. The more successful conservative strategies are expected to enhance tooth longevity, provided concomitant caries control is effective.