Validity of caries disclosing dyes in identifying caries in primary teeth: An invitro comparative study

Introduction: Conservation of dental hard tissues has become the milestone for any recent caries excavation technique. Furthermore, leaving the caries-infected dentine in some critical regions of the cavity is now regarded as acceptable by many, nowadays, provided that creation of a proper marginal seal can be achieved and maintained. Thus we need highly specific and sensitive tools for identification of carious lesion Aim: to investigate the accuracy of caries detecting dyes in identification of carious lesion in primary teeth. Materials and Methods: Twenty extracted human primary posterior teeth without pulpal exposure were sectioned mesiodistally through the center of the lesions using a water-cooled disk. The dye was applied using a small brush and removed after 10 seconds by a 5-second water spray. The specimens were then examined under a Light microscope to find bacterial penetration into dentinal tubules. Sensitivity and specificity of dye was calculated. Results: The specificity and sensitivity of the caries detecting dye was found to be 100% and 74% respectively. Conclusion: Caries detecting dyes can be used as a screening test for identification of caries. However its applicability as the sole diagnostic tool is still doubtful.