Treatment decisions - caries

Question 1

why are more non-restorative treatments less predictable?

Answer 1

they put the responsibility for the patients dental care into the patients hands with the dentist as a guide

Question 2

name 4 techniques for managing a carious lesion

Answer 2

hall technique (crowns)
fissure sealants
selective caries removal and restorative material
non-restorative cavity control -> children

Question 3

how do you distinguish between reversible and irreversible pulpitis?

Answer 3

reversible pulpitis is short sharp pain that goes away when stimulus is removed e.g. cold and is difficult to localise

Question 4

when can you use the hall technique? 3

Answer 4

asymptomatic or reversible pulpitis
proximal lesions
must be a band of normal dentine on radiograph between pulp

Question 5

why isn’t the hall technique recommended for occlusal surfaces?

Answer 5

because it increases the dimensions of the tooth affecting occlusion

Question 6

when can u use the hall technique on the occlusal surface?

Answer 6

in pre-cooperative children

Question 7

what are contra-indications of using the hall technique?

Answer 7

Irreversible pulpitis/infection
Clinically/radiographically caries has reached the pulp
Arrested caries
Not enough tooth substance left to retain the crown