Comparative evaluation of efficacy of chemomechanical and conventional methods of caries excavation in young permanent molar teeth: In vivo study

Aim: To evaluate and compare the efficacy of chemomechanical method using Carie-Care (Eco Works Pvt. Ltd.) and conventional method (airotor and hand instruments) during excavation of caries in young permanent molar teeth. Methodology: Twelve children in the age group of 6–9 years having moderate occlusal caries in any two first permanent molars according to the ICDAS-3 or 4 category were selected. Caries excavation in Group I was carried out by the conventional method using airotor and hand instruments. In Group II, it was carried out using Carie-Care gel. The findings recorded in the study included pain response during caries excavation using the Wong-Baker Faces Pain Scale (WBFPS), time taken for caries excavation using a stopwatch (Taksun TS-1809), and the need felt for administration of local anesthesia in children for both the methods. Results: Data obtained were subjected to statistical analysis. Intergroup comparison for WBFPS scores and time needed for caries excavation was done using unpaired t-test and the results obtained were statistically highly significant (P < 0.01). Conclusion: It was concluded from the present study that the use of Carie-Care resulted in reduced pain response from the children during caries excavation. Thus, it can be used as an alternative to the conventional method in children with dental phobia to achieve better cooperation and maintain a positive dental attitude for future treatment