This paper summarizes and evaluates the indications and limitations of various dental materials and techniques for the treatment and restoration of root surface dental caries. Development of a severity index for classifying and sorting lesions is described. Historical materials such as silver amalgam and gold foil are briefly discussed as are contemporary materials such as composite resins and dentin bonding primers. Emphasis is placed on materials and techniques requiring minimal invasion or preparation of the root surface. Eradication of root lesions by recontouring and smoothing the root surface is discussed at length. A new dental material, glass ionomer cement, which contains fluoride and forms a physicochemical bond with enamel and dentin. and requires no preparation of the root surface other than lesion debridement, is described in detail. Guidelines for managing arrested lesions are offered. In addition, the importance of topical fluoride in the treatment and management of root caries is discussed. Lastly, some suggestions are offered for future directions of research in this area.