Randomized controlled clinical trial of the 24-months survival of composite resin restorations after one-step incomplete and complete excavation on primary teeth

Item does not contain fulltextOBJECTIVE: This randomized clinical trial aimed to compare the 24-months survival of composite restorations in primary molars after partial caries removal (PCR) and total caries removal (TCR). METHODS: Forty-eight children aged 3-8 years with at least one molar with a deep carious lesion were included (PCR; n=66; TCR; n=54). For PCR, excavation was stopped when dentine with a leathery consistency was achieved; in the TCR group, total absence of carious tissue was confirmed using a blunt-tipped probe. Pulpotomy was performed in cases of pulp exposure. Success was assessed by modified USPHS criteria with Alpha and Bravo scores recorded as success. Results : Pulp exposure occurred in 1 and 15 of the teeth treated with PCR and TCR respectively (p