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Secondary caries challenges under the spotlight at Bolan Dental College

Tue. 26 August 2025

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QUETTA: As part of the ongoing weekly lecture series at Bolan Dental College Quetta, Dr. Shahbaz Khan, Incharge of the Dental Materials Department at BMC Quetta, delivered an engaging and evidence-based lecture on “Secondary caries and the choice of direct restorative materials.” The session was attended by the entire faculty, who actively participated and appreciated the scientific and clinical knowledge shared.

Secondary caries, also known as recurrent decay, was defined by Dr. Shahbaz as a significant clinical challenge in restorative dentistry. He emphasized that it often develops around or beneath existing restorations, leading to restoration failure and further loss of tooth structure. Highlighting the causes, he pointed to microleakage, poor bonding, and inadequate oral hygiene as key contributors. He stressed that both technique and material selection play a vital role in preventing recurrence.

When discussing restorative materials, Dr. Shahbaz provided a balanced comparison:

  • Glass ionomer cements (GICs): Known for fluoride release and chemical bonding to tooth structure, but with limited mechanical strength.
    Resin composites: Favored for their aesthetics and strength, yet prone to polymerization shrinkage and microleakage, which can lead to secondary caries.
    Amalgam: Praised for its durability and long-term sealing ability, though aesthetics and mercury-related concerns were highlighted.

Dr. Shahbaz further underlined the role of adhesive systems, cavity preparation, and isolation techniques in preventing secondary caries. He noted that the choice of material should always be customized to the clinical case and the patient’s oral health needs.

The session concluded with faculty appreciation for the comprehensive approach that combined scientific evidence with practical clinical experience. It reinforced the importance of both restorative material properties and operator skill in managing and preventing secondary caries, making it a valuable learning opportunity for all attendees at Bolan Dental College.

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