Clinical Case: Minimally Invasive Caries Management
June 7, 2023 | Dr. Michal Dekel-Steinkeller, DMD
About the Case
The philosophy of Minimally Invasive Dentistry compels us to always choose the most conservative approach in treating caries-affected teeth. This young woman’s first lower molar showed suspicious signs of caries adjacent to a faulty composite restoration. A conservative approach was used to remove the caries-affected dentin, without need for local anesthetics, and a new esthetic restoration was placed using state of the art adhesives and restorative materials.
The patient presented with a failing restoration. Note the open, discolored margin, and underlying discoloration.
A bitewing radiograph confirms suspicion of caries adjacent to the restoration, and it was decided to remove the restoration
After removal of the faulty restoration, soft, carious dentin is prevalent
Using mechanical caries removal, the infected dentin is removed with a manual excavator.
3M™ Vitrebond Plus Light Cure Glass Ionomer Liner/Base is placed on the deepest part of the preparation.
Selective enamel etch is applied with phosphoric acid, 3M™ Scotchbond™ Universal Etchant, which is then rinsed.
3M™ Scotchbond™ Universal Plus Adhesive is applied to the entire preparation for 20 seconds, air dried for 5 seconds, and cured for 10 seconds.
Final outcome, 3M™ Filtek One Bulk Fill Restorative, A2, after finishing and polishing.
Refer to Instructions for Use (IFU) for complete product information. Results may vary.
