Lesion management in pediatric dentistry: non-restorative cavity control

Non-restorative cavity control (NRCC) involves managing a carious lesion without removing carious tissue and in most cases without placing a restorative material. The rationale for this minimally invasive lesion management technique is based on the current understanding that the disease dental caries develops at the level of the plaque biofilm. The microbial environment of the biofilm, driven by the presence of free sugar, causes an imbalance in the demineralization and remineralization of dental hard tissues resulting in a carious lesion. NRCC aims at controlling the biofilm activity on the tooth and lesion surface, while simultaneously preventing further demineralization and facilitating remineralization. This conservative modality reduces treatment-related anxiety in young children and children with special needs while reducing the need for treatment under sedation and general anesthesia.