A comparative microbiological study to assess caries excavation by conventional rotary method and a chemo-mechanical...

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Dentistry
• Cariology
• Dental Materials Science

Background:

• Dental caries is a prevalent issue in primary dentition, requiring effective and minimally invasive removal methods.
• Conventional caries removal can cause discomfort and anxiety in children.
• Chemo-mechanical caries removal offers a potentially less traumatic alternative.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the effectiveness of Papacárie(®) chemo-mechanical caries removal with the conventional method.
• To evaluate differences in microbial flora, treatment time, tissue removal, child behavior, pain perception, and treatment preference.

Main Methods:

• Sixty primary molars from 30 children (4-9 years) were randomly assigned to two groups.
• Group A: Conventional caries removal; Group B: Papacárie(®) chemo-mechanical method.
• Evaluations included microbial counts, cavity size, preparation time, behavior, pain, and preference.

Main Results:

• No significant differences in microbial growth or bacterial counts between groups.
• Papacárie(®) resulted in significantly smaller cavity entrance size and less tissue removal (P < 0.001).
• Papacárie(®) group reported significantly less pain (86.7% vs 50%, P = 0.01) with no difference in behavior or preference.

Conclusions:

• Chemo-mechanical caries removal with Papacárie(®) is effective for pain control during caries excavation.
• This method aids in preserving sound tooth structure.
• Papacárie(®) offers a viable alternative for pediatric dental caries management.