Clinical and economic justification of a minimally invasive approach to the treatment of dental caries in 6-year-old children in the Altai Territory

The economic assessment of dental care in children is an essential component of optimizing treatment strategies and reducing the financial burden on healthcare systems. Early detection of caries and the use of minimally invasive approaches are particularly important, as they help prevent complications and decrease the overall cost of treatment. The aim of the study was to perform a clinical and economic evaluation of minimally invasive approaches to dental caries management in children, determine the cost of treatment at different stages of the disease, and assess the impact of diagnostic indices on the number of detected lesions and total expenditures. Materials and methods. The analysis included the assessment of direct medical costs for the treatment of enamel demineralization, superficial and dentin caries, and pulpitis in 6-year-old children. Costs were calculated using labor unit equivalents and regional outpatient dental tariffs. Additional evaluation was performed using the DMFT, CAST, ICDAS-II, and QLF indices to determine differences in the number of detected lesions and the associated financial burden. A cost-of-illness analysis and cost-minimization analysis was conducted. Results. The cost of treatment increased substantially with the progression of the carious process, with early lesions requiring the lowest expenditures and pulpitis treatment being the most expensive. Different diagnostic indices identified varying numbers of lesions, resulting in significant differences in total calculated costs. Cost-minimization analysis demonstrated that treating early-stage caries is the most economically advantageous compared with the treatment of superficial and dentin caries, as well as pulpitis. Conclusion. Early diagnosis and minimally invasive treatment of dental caries in children significantly reduce financial costs, prevent complications, and help preserve tooth structure. Preventive strategies and timely intervention represent a cost-effective approach for both healthcare systems and families.

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