The aim of the pilot study was to compare preparation methods most frequently used in the conservative treatment of deciduous teeth caries. The experiment was performed ex vivo in extracted carious deciduous molars. Hand excavation, preparation with burs and chemomechanical caries removal were compared. Results of these techniques were analysed using the caries detector dye, light and digital scanning electron microscopy. The time of each preparation was measured.

        Key words: caries – deciduous teeth – preparation techniques