A new method for deep caries treatment in primary teeth using ozone: a retrospective study

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Dentistry
• Cariology
• Dental Materials Science

Background:

• Deep caries in deciduous teeth often necessitates pulpotomy.
• Conventional treatment involves extensive removal of carious dentin.
• Ozone therapy offers novel disinfection capabilities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate a novel deep caries treatment protocol for deciduous teeth.
• The protocol involves incomplete carious dentin removal and ozone disinfection.
• A key aspect is creating a peripheral seal for bonding.

Main Methods:

• Fifty patients with 94 posterior deciduous molar restorations were included.
• The protocol utilized incomplete caries removal, ozone disinfection, and rubber dam isolation.
• Restorations were assessed for success or failure at 3, 6, and 12 months.

Main Results:

• The study achieved a 12-month success rate of 93.62% (88 out of 94 restorations).
• This success rate is comparable to established pulpotomy procedures.
• The protocol demonstrated effectiveness in managing deep caries in primary molars.

Conclusions:

• The described protocol is a viable alternative to pulpotomy for deep caries in deciduous teeth.
• Ozone disinfection is a key component, enhancing treatment efficacy.
• This approach successfully preserves valuable tooth structure and avoids pulp chamber invasion.