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Purpose: To evaluate the 3-year clinical performance of Dyract in primary molars. Materials and Methods: In 55 children (aged 4-9 years) 91 restorations were placed and 76 were available for evaluation after 2 years. After 3 years, 40 teeth were exfoliated leaving 37 restorations for evaluation. Results: During the entire study, four restorations failed and had to be replaced. One restoration fractured after 6 months and another after 1 year. Two other restorations were completely lost between the second and third year's evaluation. Furthermore, three restorations showed minimal recurrent caries, which did not need additional treatment. Wear of the restorations was considerable. However, this was also true for the point of reference for the wear measurement on the primary molars. The excellent handling characteristics and the low failure rate during the 3-year study suggest that this compomer is a reliable restorative material in primary molars. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Caries is a multifactorial disease manifesting itself as a dynamic process. Fewer than half of all 5-year-olds have all teeth intact. The treatment of cavities in the temporary dentition requires a switch from predominant restoration to responsible non-restoration. The progression of a process within an existing cavity can in fact be inhibited by cleansing the lesion with fluoride toothpaste if it is, or made, approachable. Such non-restorative treatment changes an acute cavity progression into a chronic one. Chronic caries provides more time to mobilize the immune system through the pulp. Non-restorative treatment of cavities is especially indicated in children with active caries or children who are afraid of treatment by a dentist. Non-restorative treatment of cavities is less burdensome for children than restorative treatment.