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Systematic Assessment of Mammalian Skull Specimens for Dental and Temporomandibular Joint Pathology
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Root caries: a periodontal perspective
1EduPERIO Periodontal Education and Research International Organization, Rome, Italy.
Journal of Periodontal Research
|May 8, 2013
Summary
Root caries is a significant risk for periodontal patients due to exposed root surfaces. Further research is needed to understand risk factors and improve prevention strategies for these vulnerable individuals.
Area of Science:
- Dental research
- Periodontology
- Cariology
Background:
- Root caries is a prevalent dental issue in periodontal patients, exacerbated by exposed root surfaces from periodontal disease and therapy.
- Increased risk of root caries can jeopardize the long-term success of periodontally treated teeth.
- This review focuses on root caries in periodontal patients and identifies unmet research needs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the existing literature on root caries in periodontal patients.
- To highlight areas requiring further investigation, particularly concerning risk factors and diagnostic criteria.
- To emphasize the importance of prevention in managing root caries in this population.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive literature search of the Medline database was conducted.
- The search focused on clinical features, diagnosis, pathogenesis, histopathology, and epidemiology of root caries.
- Emphasis was placed on the relationship between root caries and periodontal disorders.
Main Results:
- Despite extensive literature, consensus is lacking on diagnostic criteria, prevalence, and definitive risk factors for root caries.
- Advancing age may be a contributing factor, but conclusive evidence is needed.
- Awareness of the elevated root caries risk in periodontal patients remains insufficient.
Conclusions:
- Further research is essential, especially concerning root caries in elderly periodontal patients.
- Improved oral hygiene, preventive measures, diet, and regular dental visits are critical for preventing both periodontal disease and root caries.
- Periodontal patients with root exposure must adhere to a strict root caries prevention protocol as part of their maintenance therapy.
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