The Atraumatic Restorative Treatment (ART) Technique: Does It have a Place in Everyday Practice?

From Volume 27, Issue 3, April 2000 | Pages 118-123

Authors

Ben O.I. Cole

MSc, FDS RCS (Edin.)

Specialist Registrar, Paediatric Dentistry, Department of Child Dental Health, Dental School and Hospital, Newcastle upon Tyne

Articles by Ben O.I. Cole

Richard R. Welbury

MB BS, BDS, PhD, FDS RCS, FDS RCPS

Regional Consultant in Paediatric Dentistry, Department of Child Dental Health, Dental School and Hospital, Newcastle upon Tyne

Articles by Richard R. Welbury

Abstract

The ART technique was introduced in the early 1990s. It involves the removal of carious tooth tissue with hand instruments followed by restoration with an adhesive material (glass-ionomer cement). Local anaesthetic is not always required for treatment and the technique has helped to bridge the gap in the provision of treatment to rural communities, senior citizens and dental phobic patients. This article looks at the development of the technique, its performance and potential areas of application.

Article