Understanding the dentine layers

Carious lesions in the dentine are not homogeneous and can be divided into the two distinct zones of infected and affected dentine. Being irreversibly demineralised and heavily contaminated with bacteria, infected dentine must be completely removed. Affected dentine is partially demineralised but capable of remineralisation and should therefore be preserved to maintain tooth vitality and strength. CARIES DETECTOR helps clinicians to identify the exact transition between these two layers, providing a visual end-point for excavation.

How it works

CARIES DETECTOR selectively stains the infected dentine a vivid red and leaves the affected and sound dentine unstained. This clear chromatic differentiation allows clinicians to identify residual infected tissue and avoid unnecessary removal of remineralisable dentine.

Clinical indications and use

Depending on the clinical situation, the material can be used in shallow cavities prior to cavity opening for assessment and in deep lesions after initial excavation to guide further selective removal while preventing pulpal exposure. The following clinical protocol yields a clean, sound dentinal surface ready for adhesive bonding and restoration:

1. After dental dam placement, wash and dry the carious tooth.
2. Apply one drop of CARIES DETECTOR on a disposable brush and apply to the cavity.
3. Allow 10 seconds for staining to occur.
4. Rinse thoroughly with water to remove excess dye and reveal the stained areas.
5. Excavate the stained dentine with a low-speed rotary instrument, avoiding the unstained tissue.
6. Repeat application if necessary to ensure complete removal of infected dentine.

 

Integration into minimally invasive restorative workflows

CARIES DETECTOR represents the first step in a conservative restorative protocol. By using the product in combination with Kuraray Noritake Dental’s range of adhesive and restorative materials, clinicians can achieve:

• controlled removal of infected dentine;
• enhanced bonding to remineralisable and peripheral sound dentine; and
• optimised aesthetic and long-term restorative outcomes.

By translating histological principles into a practical chairside tool, CARIES DETECTOR allows clinicians to perform caries excavation with greater accuracy and confidence. It supports minimally invasive principles, preserves tooth vitality and lays the groundwork for durable, aesthetic restorations.

 

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