Background: The chemical-mechanical removal of caries involves the chemical softening of the infected dentin, following by the mechanical removal of the softened tissue using non-cutting manual instruments. Papacárie (Fórmula&Açāo, Sao Paulo, Brazil) is a product in gel form used for the chemical-mechanical softening of the affected tissue.
Objective: The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the effectiveness of Papacárie.
Methods: Clinical and radiographic evaluations were performed on 14 young permanent molars treated with Papacárie and restored with glass ionomer cement (VitroMolar DFL Ind. Com LTDA, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) 24 months following intervention.
Results: Success was achieved in 13 of the 14 cases.
Conclusion: Papacárie was effective in the treatment of carious lesions and constitutes a conservative alternative that offers benefits to patients.