In the Class A cavity depth which demonstrates the maximum remaining dentin thickness, the use of some form

of cavity liner is usually indicated. When the removal of carious dentin necessary extends the floor or the wall of the cavity beyond the minimal depth required by the principles of mechanical design, the ensuing Class B or C depth most often requires the placement of a cavity liner, an intermediary base, a cement base or perhaps some combination of these.

- are materials that are placed as a thin coating/thin films varying in thickness from a few microns to about a millimeter (usually 0.5 mm) on the surface of a cavity preparation. - As a general rule, if removal of infected dentin does not extend deeper than 1mm from the initially prepared pulpal or axial wall, no liner is indicated.

Their purposes are to provide for one or more of the following:

1. To act as a protective barrier between dentin and the restorative material, thereby reducing its possible undesirable effect upon the dentin or pulp. 2. To minimize the ingress of oral fluids at the restoration-tooth tissue interface 3. To bring some therapeutic benefit to the tooth

Commonly used liners: 1. Calcium Hydroxide 2. Zinc Oxide-Eugenol