Preventive resin restorations: indications, technique, and success

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Dental Materials
• Caries Management

Background:

• Preventive resin restorations have been utilized since 1977.
• There is a lack of uniformity in indications and techniques for this procedure.
• Standardized diagnostic criteria are needed for effective treatment planning.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose diagnostic criteria for occlusal caries in pits and fissures.
• To provide treatment planning considerations for preventive resin restorations.
• To describe a step-by-step "laminate" technique for this procedure.

Main Methods:

• Development of diagnostic criteria for pit and fissure caries.
• Description of a sequential "laminate" technique: glass-ionomer cement liner, posterior composite resin, and sealant.
• Review of clinical studies reporting success rates of preventive resin restorations.

Main Results:

• The article proposes specific diagnostic criteria for pit and fissure caries.
• A detailed "laminate" technique is described for preventive resin restorations.
• Success rates from various studies are presented, highlighting methodological diversity.

Conclusions:

• Standardized diagnostic criteria and techniques are crucial for preventive resin restorations.
• The "laminate" technique offers a structured approach to managing pit and fissure caries.
• Further research is needed to standardize success criteria and evaluate long-term outcomes.