Behaviour of primary incisor caries: A micromechanical study

Abstract

Objectives. To date, there has been no attempt to assess the mechanical properties of the entirety of a smooth-surface carious lesion in primary teeth, despite the fact that these lesions are not only common, but clinically challenging. Therefore, the aim of this study was to describe the hardness and modulus of elasticity across smooth surface lesions of primary incisors. Study design. An in vitro study of the micromechanical properties of primary incisors. Materials and methods. Carious primary incisor teeth were set in resin, sectioned and polished. A series of indentations using the ultra-micro- indentation system were conducted in fully hydrated carious and sound dentine from the minima..