Lesion management in pediatric dentistry: resin infiltration, sealing carious lesions and Hall technique

Management of a carious lesion without removal of the carious tissue is based on the concept that the disease dental caries develops in 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. The main objective of these conservative methods of managing carious lesions is to control the biofilm activity on the tooth and lesion surface. These techniques simultaneously remineralize the tooth surface and restore the tooth while cutting off access to further plaque activity. Sealing carious tissue and Hall technique are of value especially in children who are very young or with special needs, reducing the necessity for treatment under sedation and general anesthesia. The dental experience consequently becomes more pleasant, less demanding and stressful for children and families.