Micro-computed tomographic evaluation of a new enzyme solution for caries removal in deciduous teeth

This study evaluated a new enzyme solution (SFC-V) for dentin caries removal, and obtained results were compared with Carisolv. Both solutions were used with a prototype plastic instrument - this being a modified technique for Carisolv. Five carious deciduous teeth were sectioned, and both treatments were applied alternately to each half. Micro-CT observations showed that both treatments resulted in removal of the outer demineralized dentin layer: 28.6% for SFC-V and 28.2% for Carisolv. As for the remaining demineralized dentin, thicknesses of 0.27 microm (SFC-V) and 0.31microm (Carisolv) were observed with no statistically significant differences. FE-SEM analysis revealed that the use of Carisolv resulted in a rougher surface; whereas after SFC-V enzymatic treatment, an organized dentin collagen network with open tubules and few signs of bacteria were observed. In summary, the experimental enzymatic solution and the modified Carisolv treatment removed comparable amounts of carious dentin but with differing resultant surface morphologies.