[Caries receptivity: a modern diagnostic protocol. II. The most important tests]

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Oral Health
• Diagnostic Microbiology

Background:

• Caries risk assessment is crucial for early diagnosis.
• Existing clinical tests for carioreceptivity vary in reliability.
• Understanding individual susceptibility to caries is key for preventive strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and evaluate the efficacy of current clinical diagnostic tests for carioreceptivity.
• To identify the most reliable methods for predicting future caries development.
• To assess the diagnostic value of various salivary parameters and microbiological tests.

Main Methods:

• Review of clinical diagnostic tests for carioreceptivity.
• Evaluation of DMF-T index, stimulated salivary flow, and salivary pH.
• Assessment of saliva buffer potential using colorimetric tests.
• Analysis of specific microbiological cultures for cariogenic microorganisms like Streptococcus mutans and lactobacilli.

Main Results:

• DMF-T index indicates past caries experience but not future risk.
• Reduced salivary flow is significant only in severe cases (e.g., xerostomy).
• Salivary pH is unreliable for carioreceptivity screening but may indicate systemic issues.
• Saliva buffer potential is the most reliable individual parameter for caries protection.
• Microbiological cultures, especially for Streptococcus mutans, are the most dependable tests for carioreceptivity diagnosis.
• Lactobacilli detection indicates poor oral hygiene and diet.

Conclusions:

• Saliva buffer potential and specific microbiological cultures (Streptococcus mutans) are the most reliable indicators for individual carioreceptivity.
• Combined evaluation of multiple parameters has limited individual predictive value.
• Accurate diagnosis of carioreceptivity is essential for targeted preventive dental care.