Progression of non-cavitated lesions in dentin through a nonsurgical approach: a preliminary 12-month clinical observation.
OBJECTIVE
Considering the minimally invasive approach to dentistry, the scientific community has focused on non-invasive treatments for caries lesions. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of a nonsurgical approach to arrest occlusal non-cavitated dentin lesions through glass ionomer sealing.


METHODS
In this controlled clinical trial, 51 teeth with clinically non-cavitated occlusal caries radiographically located beneath the enamel-dentine junction (radiolucent area) were selected among patients presenting a moderate to high risk of caries. The teeth were randomly divided into two groups: an experimental group receiving an application of Vidrion-R (SS White) glass ionomer and a control group not submitted to any clinical intervention. Caries progression was monitored by clinical and radiographic examination at 4-monthly intervals over a period of one year. In addition, marginal integrity of the sealant was evaluated in the experimental group.


RESULTS
Clinical examination showed no statistical difference between the groups (P=.13). On the other hand, sealed teeth presented lower caries progression when analyzed by radiographic examination (P=.004).


CONCLUSIONS
A glass ionomer sealant over non-cavitated occlusal caries lesions in dentin may not be sufficiently effective in arresting their progression.
Department of Dentistry, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, RN, Brazil.
Ana Daniela Silva
AD
da Silveira
Boniek Castillo Dutra
BC
Borges
Hugo
H
de Almeida Varela
Kenio Costa
KC
de Lima
Isauremi Vieira de Assunção
IV
Pinheiro