Evidence-based caries, risk assessment, and treatment

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Oral Health
• Microbiology

Background:

• Dental caries is a transmissible biofilm disease affecting dental hard tissues.
• Early lesions (white spots) can progress to cavitation if untreated.
• Current management often focuses on restorative treatment rather than prevention.

Purpose of the Study:

• To discuss the application of the medical model for caries management.
• To highlight the role of risk assessment in patient-centered caries prevention.
• To present evidence-based strategies for managing the caries process.

Main Methods:

• Review of evidence supporting risk assessment in caries.
• Discussion of the medical model balancing etiologic and protective factors.
• Integration of risk assessment into patient management strategies.

Main Results:

• The medical model provides a framework for understanding caries as a dynamic disease process.
• Risk assessment enables personalized prevention and management plans.
• Evidence supports proactive strategies to prevent irreversible tooth damage.

Conclusions:

• Implementing a medical model with risk assessment is crucial for effective caries management.
• Patient-centered strategies can prevent disease progression and tooth destruction.
• Evidence-based risk assessment facilitates proactive oral healthcare.