This multicenter longitudinal interventional study aims to evaluate minimally invasive protocols for the prevention and control of dental caries in Brazilian schoolchildren under routine public health conditions. In the first phase, 50,000 children aged 6 to 12 years from public schools in five Brazilian cities will undergo dental screening using ICDAS criteria and receive preventive and educational oral health measures. In the longitudinal treatment phase, 2,500 children diagnosed with active carious lesions will be managed according to ICDAS-based minimally invasive treatment protocols. Participants will be followed every three months for up to 24 months.
Children aged between 6 and 12 years at the time of enrollment
Presence of at least one erupted permanent first molar
Diagnosis of active caries lesions classified according to ICDAS (scores 1 to 6)
Written informed consent signed by a legal guardian and assent signed by the child
Children requiring endodontic treatment or presenting extensive pulpal involvement
Presence of systemic diseases or medical conditions that contraindicate dental care
Known allergy to any material used in the study (fluoride varnish, high-viscosity glass ionomer cement)
Participation in other clinical dental studies that could interfere with the outcomes