[Introduction and interpretation of the EFCD-ESE-ORCA S3-level clinical practice guideline for deep caries...

Deep caries and extremely deep caries are among the most common and challenging clinical conditions in operative dentistry and endodontics. In 2026, the European Federation of Conservative Dentistry(EFCD), the European Society of Endodontology (ESE)and the Organization for Caries Research (ORCA)jointly published the "Deep caries management: EFCD-ESE-ORCA S3-level clinical practice guideline". Based on systematic reviews, grading of recommendations assessment, development and evaluation (GRADE) assessment and structured expert consensus, this guideline provided evidence-informed recommendations for managing deep caries and extremely deep caries in vital permanent teeth, including caries removal strategies, lining materials, management of pulp exposure, direct pulp capping and pulpotomy materials. This article introduces and interprets the guideline, aiming to assist dentists in understanding the current evidence-based concepts of deep caries management and improving treatment decision-making, pulp vitality preservation and long-term tooth survival.