Effect of caries excavation by Carisolv and SmartPrep burs on dentin hardness — An in vitro study

The purpose of this study was to comparatively evaluate two caries excavation methods-Smartprep(SS White) burs and Carisolv (Carisolv™) by measuring the Vickers hardness of prepared cavity. 40 extracted human molars with moderate occlusal caries were used in this study. Teeth with moderate caries extending till dentin without pulp involvement were selected. RVG was used to assess the depth of the cavity. The samples were divided into 2 groups, Group I by Smart prep burs and Group II using Carisolv. Each groups were subjected to morphological analysis under scanning electron microscope. The samples prepared with Carisolv showed least difference in hardness values between the prepared surface and surrounding dentin compared to Smartprep burs. SEM analysis with Smartprep burs revealed surface covered with debris and smear layer while Carisolv showed rough and scaly surface with large areas with open dentinal tubules. Removal of infected carious dentin was superior when Carisolv was employed as compared to SmartPrep burs. The results concluded that smear layer removal of Carisolv was superior when compared to SmartPrep burs.