[Non-restorative treatment of cavities in temporary dentition: effective and child-friendly].
Caries is a multifactorial disease manifesting itself as a dynamic process. Fewer than half of all 5-year-olds have all teeth intact. The treatment of cavities in the temporary dentition requires a switch from predominant restoration to responsible non-restoration. The progression of a process within an existing cavity can in fact be inhibited by cleansing the lesion with fluoride toothpaste if it is, or made, approachable. Such non-restorative treatment changes an acute cavity progression into a chronic one. Chronic caries provides more time to mobilize the immune system through the pulp. Non-restorative treatment of cavities is especially indicated in children with active caries or children who are afraid of treatment by a dentist. Non-restorative treatment of cavities is less burdensome for children than restorative treatment.
Academisch Centrum Tandheelkunde, afd. Cariologie Endodontologie Pedodontologie Orale Microbiologie, Amsterdam, the Netherlands. r.gruyt@planet.nl
René J M
RJ
Gruythuysen
A J P Guus
AJ
van Strijp
Wim H
WH
van Palestein Helderman
Frans W
FW
Frankenmolen
D002327:Cariostatic Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D002648:Child; D016854:Dental Anxiety / Q000517:prevention & control; D003731:Dental Caries / Q000628:therapy*; D006801:Humans; D009910:Oral Hygiene; D002666:Psychology, Child; D014094:Tooth, Deciduous
D002327:Cariostatic Agents