Comparative Evaluation of Caries Removal Efficacy of Ceramic Bur, Polymer Smart Bur, and Conventional Tungsten Carbide Bur in Primary Molars: A Clinical Study
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Aim and background: study aimed to compare the efficiency of caries removal, the time required, and pain perception associated with ceramic burs, polymer smart burs, and conventional tungsten carbide burs in primary molars. Methods: A total of 90 primary molars from 30 children (21 boys and 9 girls) aged between 5 and 9 years (mean age 6.77 ± 1.36) were included. Caries excavation was carried out using tungsten carbide burs (group I), polymer burs (group II), and ceramic burs (group III). The parameters assessed were the efficacy of caries removal, time required for excavation, and pain perception, and comparisons were made among the three groups. Results: Polymer burs required significantly more time for caries excavation than both tungsten carbide and ceramic burs. Caries removal efficacy was highest with tungsten carbide burs, followed by ceramic burs, while polymer burs showed the lowest efficacy, with statistically significant differences between groups. Pain perception was lower with ceramic and polymer burs compared to tungsten carbide burs. Conclusion: Ceramic burs are more efficient than polymer burs in minimally invasive caries excavation. Clinical significance: Minimally invasive dentistry in pediatric patients is clinically significant as it focuses on early prevention, preserves tooth structure, minimizes discomfort and trauma, and supports long-term oral health through less invasive, more child-friendly techniques. This study provides evidence that the ceramic bur is an effective minimal invasive tool for caries excavation. How to cite this article: . Comparative Evaluation of Caries Removal Efficacy of Ceramic Bur, Polymer Smart Bur, and Conventional Tungsten Carbide Bur in Primary Molars: A Clinical Study. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2025;18(10):1222-1227.
Authors: Krishnaveni L, Jayanta K Dash, Ratna R Baliarsingh, Prayas Ray, Monika Khwairakpam, Sarita Das
Institution: Sriram Chandra Bhanja Medical College Hospital
Language: English
Subfield: Orthodontics
Field: Dentistry
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4415388374