[Carisolv, a change in the perception of caries treatment--a chemo-mechanical removal of caries]

This paper reviews the chemo-mechanical method (Carisolv) for caries removal. The mechanism of action and some treatment choices are described. Modern dentistry aims to preserve tooth structure by minimal invasive procedures. Chemo-mechanical removal of caries is a new method with the advantage of selective removal of severely demineralized dentin. This enhances the caries diagnostic ability of the clinician. Ensuring chair side caries diagnosis and removal, based on a biological principle, helps to preserve as much healthy tissue as possible. This method is most comfortable for the patient. On the other hand treatment time is prolonged. In most cases, the method has to be used in combination with a conventional bur. Caries lesions in which removal of enamel or a restoration is needed cannot be treated exclusively by the chemo-mechanical method. However, the chemo-mechanical caries treatment can be used as the first choice of treatment in specific cases in the prosthodontic and pediatric field.