Micro-invasive treatment of caries by resin infiltration

To achieve deep penetration of the resin firstly, the pseudo intact surface layer has to be eroded by etching with hydrochloric acid gel. Secondly, desiccation of the lesion is a prerequisite for capillary action. Finally, infiltrating resins (Infiltrants) that are optimized for fast penetration into the capillary structures of the caries are applied. This way, natural enamel caries lesions can be resin infiltrated completely in vitro. Recent studies revealed efficacy of the infiltration method also in situ and in vivo.

Microinvasive therapy of caries lesions by resin infiltration might bridge the gap between non- and minimally invasive treatment options. In this lecture the concept of caries infiltration will be presented; clinical application as well as indications will be discussed.

This presentation is supported DMG, Hamburg.