BiodentineTM as a temporary filling in deep carious lesions in permanent teeth: a long-term follow-up

Abstract Objectives The study aimed to evaluate temporary fillings using Biodentine™ in asymptomatic deep carious lesions after 12, 24 and 36 months in school children from the remote village of Kerung, Nepal. Material and Methods From November 2018 to November 2019, 96 temporary fillings were placed using Biodentine™ (a hydraulic calcium silicate cement) in permanent molars with deep carious lesions of schoolchildren in the remote district of Kerung, Nepal. These restorations were performed after selective caries removal in a non-dental setting with hand instruments and cotton roll isolation, as electric motors and saliva ejection systems were unavailable. In total, 81 single-surface and 15 multi-surface fillings were placed. Clinical and radiographic follow-up periods encompassed 12, 21 and 33 months, respectively. Results After 12 months, all single-surface fillings (100%) survived, while all multi-surface fillings were partially or entirely lost. The survival rate of single-surface restorations after 21 and 33 months was 67,6% and 50%, respectively. Radiographically no pathology was observed. Conclusion This study showed that Biodentine could be used in deep carious lesions as a temporary filling in single surface lesions for at least up to one year and in a substantial number of cases for up to 21 and 33 months. Clinical relevance The present findings are very advantageous in paediatric patients, even in challenging conditions. Further, this study supports the clinical use of tricalcium silicates for selective caries removal in deep carious lesions.