Clinical and Radiographic Assessment of First Permanent Molars With Cention-N

: Assessment of Clinical, Radiographic, and Oral Health-Related Quality of Life Following Restoration of First Permanent Molars with Cention N: A 12-Month Split-Mouth Randomized Controlled Trial Introduction Dental caries is one of the most common chronic diseases affecting children. First permanent molars (FPMs) are particularly susceptible to caries because of their early eruption and complex occlusal anatomy. Restorative treatment aims to preserve tooth function and prevent disease progression. Composite resin is widely used because of its esthetics and mechanical properties; however, polymerization shrinkage may compromise marginal integrity. Cention N is a newer alkasite restorative material that releases fluoride, calcium, and hydroxide ions, promoting remineralization and enhancing caries resistance. Since treatment success should include both clinical outcomes and patient-centered outcomes, oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) will also be assessed. Aim To compare the clinical and radiographic performance of Cention N and bioactive injectable resin composite in restoring first permanent molars over 12 months. A secondary objective is to evaluate changes in children's oral health-related quality of life. Materials and Methods This will be a split-mouth randomized controlled clinical trial involving 100 children aged 8-10 years. Inclusion criteria: Healthy children (ASA I or II). Positive/definitely positive behavior (Frankl 3 or 4). Bilateral carious first permanent molars. Vital, asymptomatic teeth without radiographic pathology. Exclusion criteria: Lack of parental consent. ASA III or higher. Teeth with signs of irreversible pulp disease or radiographic pathology. Ethical approval will be obtained from the Research Ethics Committee, Faculty of Dentistry, Minia University, and written informed consent will be obtained from parents. Clinical Procedure Following clinical and radiographic examination, local anesthesia and rubber dam isolati