Comparative Evaluation of Caries Removal Efficacy of Ceramic Bur, Polymer Smart Bur, and Conventional Tungsten Carbide Bur in Primary Molars: A Clinical Study.

AIM AND

BACKGROUND

In pediatric dentistry, successful dental care involves both the proper execution of the procedure and the development of a positive approach to dental visits. Recent advances in conservative dentistry have introduced self-limiting methods for caries removal, designed to reduce pain and discomfort while enhancing patient comfort. The present in vivo 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: Krishnaveni L, Dash JK, Baliarsingh RR, et al. 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.