What is the most preferable material used to treat root caries after removal of decayed tooth structure?

What is the most preferable material used to treat root caries after removal of decayed tooth structure?

• A. Composite resin
• B. Resin Modified Glass Ionomer
• C. Amalgam
• D. Gold foil

Answer: (B)

Root caries restoration requires a material that seals well at the margins, helps prevent new decay, and can be placed in a damp, challenging field. Resin-modified glass ionomer fits these needs because it bonds chemically to dentin, providing a reliable seal even when isolation isn’t perfect. It releases fluoride over time, which helps inhibit recurrent caries at the root surface, and its moisture tolerance makes it more forgiving than resin composites in the root area. It also has a more tooth‑like thermal expansion and better marginal integrity in many clinical situations. In contrast, composites demand a dry field and can shrink at the margins, leaving openings for leakage; amalgam doesn’t bond or release fluoride and is less desirable esthetically; gold foil is technique sensitive and rarely practical for root caries. Therefore, resin-modified glass ionomer is the most preferable choice for treating root caries after removing decayed structure.

Root caries restoration requires a material that seals well at the margins, helps prevent new decay, and can be placed in a damp, challenging field. Resin-modified glass ionomer fits these needs because it bonds chemically to dentin, providing a reliable seal even when isolation isn’t perfect. It releases fluoride over time, which helps inhibit recurrent caries at the root surface, and its moisture tolerance makes it more forgiving than resin composites in the root area. It also has a more tooth‑like thermal expansion and better marginal integrity in many clinical situations. In contrast, composites demand a dry field and can shrink at the margins, leaving openings for leakage; amalgam doesn’t bond or release fluoride and is less desirable esthetically; gold foil is technique sensitive and rarely practical for root caries. Therefore, resin-modified glass ionomer is the most preferable choice for treating root caries after removing decayed structure.