Clinical evaluation of atraumatic restorations in primary molars: a comparison between 2 glass ionomer cements

Dental caries continues to be a highly prevalent disease among Brazilian preschoolers, especially those with low socioeconomic status. The purpose of this randomized, controlled trial was to evaluate in vivo 245 simplified restorations in deciduous molars using glass ionomer cements (Vidrion R and Ketac-Molar). Dental restorations were evaluated at 6- and 12-month follow-ups. The teeth restored with Vidrion R (SS White) on a single tooth surface were successful in 87% of the cases evaluated at 6 months and in 63% at 12 months. The teeth restored with Ketac-Molar on one surface achieved a success rate of 95% at 6 months and 82% at 12 months. No recurrent caries or pulpal infection was evident. Logistic regression analysis demonstrated that teeth with cavities restricted to the occlusal surface on sclerotic dentin showed the best adhesion to the restorative material. The restorations with Ketac-Molar had a better clinical performance than those with Vidrion R.