Comparative Evaluation of Noninvasive Approach to Caries Excavation Using Papacarie with Polymer Bur: An In Vitro Study

RESEARCHingredient, papain-an enzyme derived from papaya-specifically targets necrotic tissue while sparing healthy tissue, thanks to the protective action of the plasma antiprotease 1-antitrypsin.Infected tissues, lacking this protective antiprotease, are effectively IntroductIonDentistry has entered a new era, often termed dentistry 2.0, which emphasizes patient-centered care, technological innovation, and preventive strategies that aim to benefit individuals, healthcare providers, and society as a whole. 1 This evolution has laid the foundation for minimally invasive and preventive practices that are now widely adopted, contributing significantly to the reduction of oral disease burden and improving quality of life through proactive care. 2 Minimally invasive dentistry (MID) focuses on early detection and risk assessment of dental caries, promoting noninvasive or microinvasive interventions to prevent, arrest, or reverse the progression of carious lesions. 3Among these approaches, chemomechanical caries removal (CMCR) has emerged as a promising technique, particularly suited for patients who are apprehensive, medically compromised, or belong to vulnerable populations such as geriatric and pediatric groups. 3,4 Papacarie, a notable CMCR agent introduced in 2003, is a papain-based gel designed for selective caries removal.