Can aPDT Provide Decontamination and Remineralization of Caries-Affected Dentin?

Significance The affected caries, like dentin, should be preserved. Therefore, alternative techniques for removing and decontaminating dentin, such as aPDT, should be explored. Approach Bovine dentin specimens (n=159) were obtained. MIC and MBC of curcumin (1.25-320 µM) were determined and caries lesions induced by Streptococcus mutans/Actinomyces naeslundii. A spherical bur (SB), dentin excavator (DE) and ultrasound (US) were used to remove the infected dentin. Disinfection was performed using chlorhexidine (0.2%) and aPDT (320 µM, 5 min incubation, LED, 460 nm, 15, 60, and 100 J/cm², 22 mW/cm2). Cross-sectional hardness, Raman, confocal images and bond strength were performed. Results CSH increased with depth (p<0.05) and was unaffected by aPDT (p>0.05). aPDT decreased the carbonate/phosphate ratio (p<0.05) and effectively inactivated bacteria on both the surface and within the dentin tubules, without altering bond strength. Conclusions aPDT may serve as a vital tool for decontaminating and remineralizing affected dentin without compromising bond strength.