Alternative methods for caries removal: A narrative review

Abstract

Dental caries, commonly known as tooth decay, remains a significant global oral health concern. Traditional methods of caries removal, such as mechanical drilling, have proven effective but often result in the removal of healthy tooth structure and may cause patient discomfort.As,, 9a result, alternative methods for caries removal have emerged, aiming to preserve tooth structure, minimize pain, and provide more conservative treatment options. This review article explores various alternative methods for caries removal, including mechanical methods, chemomechanical methods, ultrasonic methods, laser-based techniques, cryotherapy, `silver diamine fluoride, sealants and ozone based approaches.The article summarizes the scientific literature surrounding these methods, including their efficacy, advantages, limitations, and potential applications. Additionally, the article discusses the potential challenges and future directions in the field of alternative caries removal methods. By providing a comprehensive overview of these innovative approaches, this review article aims to contribute to the growing body of knowledge on minimally invasive dentistry and enhance the understanding of alternative techniques for caries removal.